If you have children and are considering studying a master’s course, you may have concerns about managing your studies and finances alongside the full-time job of parenting. Our dedicated childcare advisers can offer a range of support and advice.
As a parent studying at Birmingham City University, you will learn the skill of balancing studying, family life, and your own needs. We appreciate your situation and will do what we can to help you succeed on your student journey.
Frequently asked questions:
If I have children, can I study for a degree?
Yes. Juggling study and childcare can be tough but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible! If you have dependent children, you may wish to consider how you will manage your care responsibilities with your studies.
The University Money and Childcare advice service has specialist childcare advisers who can talk to you about sourcing and funding appropriate childcare and Specialist Finance advisers who can discuss income options.
What am I entitled to?
Government-backed loans of up to £12,167 are available to UK, Irish and eligible EU nationals studying postgraduate master’s courses in any subject area. Plus, there are a range of additional scholarships, loans and bursaries offered to postgraduate students that can help fund your studies.
Can I afford to study?
This is a personal decision that only you can make. Things you may want to consider include:
- What funding can you apply for and how will you spend this?
- Will you be able to afford rent, food, transport and other essentials for you and your child?
- Will you need to pay for extra childcare whilst you are studying?
- Will you work full-time or part-time to support yourself throughout your studies?
- Will you have enough money for urgent expenses or a ‘rainy day’ fund?
If you’re struggling to work out your finances, you can speak to advisers before you apply to university to get a clear idea of what you may be entitled to so that you can be confident that you are making an informed decision.
What support is available during my studies?
Our specialist childcare adviser can provide confidential advice on a range of childcare issues to suit your situation. The childcare adviser has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the childcare field including helping you with the following:
- Provide confidential advice and guidance on a range of childcare-related issues on all university sites
- Finding suitable childcare provision
- What to look for when choosing childcare
- Before and after school clubs
- Holiday play schemes and extracurricular activities • Childcare funding
- Benefits
- Free pre-school childcare (criteria applies)
- Applying for school places
- Balancing and juggling being a student and a parent
- Emergency childcare
- Tax credit.
Are there any student-parent groups?
Birmingham City University Students’ Union have a society for Parents and Carers. Meaning you can attend social events and get to know other parents.
Have more questions?
You can speak to our advisers before you apply to university to get a clear idea of what support you may be entitled to during your studies.
