University comes with a whole host of challenges, even more so if you’re an estranged student. We want you to know that you’re not alone, and there’s support available to help you overcome some of the additional hurdles you may face.
A named contact
When you’re struggling and need support, the last thing you want is to be worrying about who to speak to. As an estranged student, you’ll be assigned a designated contact to help you throughout your time here. They can help with things like accommodation, finances, settling in to uni, accessing University support services, and be a listening ear and a point of support for you.
Accommodation
The University can offer year-round flexible accommodation for 52 weeks, either for the duration of your course, or just for your first and/or second year, with no guarantor required.
If you would like to move into private accommodation, we’re pleased to announce our newly launched Accommodation Guarantor Scheme to help you as an estranged or care experienced student at no cost to you. If you don’t have anyone to act as your guarantor you could be eligible, which can help cover your rent if you fall into financial difficulty.
Our University run private sector housing service, Manchester Student Homes, can also help check the legality of contracts and can provide a list of accredited student accommodation providers and landlords.
Financial help
As an estranged student, you should be classed as an independent student when applying for student finance. This could mean that you receive the maximum tuition fee and maintenance loan (your named contact can help you if you have any difficulties with this).
You could also be eligible for: The Manchester Bursary, The Undergraduate Access Scholarship, Living Cost Support Fund, Budgeting Advice, Help me get online, Access to Recreation Grant, Emergency Loans/Hardship Funding. Explore financial support for estranged students fully here.
Careers and employment
The Careers Service is here to support you with your future career, part-time jobs, applications and more. They also offer a Work Experience Bursary scheme which you are likely eligible for, providing financial support to help you undertake career enhancing work experience.
As an estranged student, you will also be offered paid work at the University as a Student Ambassador. This can be a great way to earn money and further boost your employability with the skills you can develop.
Other support
As a student here, you have access to a wide range of support, and your named contact can help you navigate all of this as an estranged student. There are lots of people here for you, including your School Support Office, The Students’ Union Advice Centre, The Counselling and Mental Health Service, and The Disability Advisory and Support Service.
If you’re not already accessing support as an estranged student and would like to find out more, click here for more information.