Advice Needed: Universal Credit & PIP While Returning to Education

ha_spiderman1998

Hi everyone at SCOPE,

I’m currently receiving the maximum Personal Independence Payment (PIP) at the enhanced rate for both mobility and daily living due to my disability. I’m planning to return to education either this September (2025) or the following year, and I’m really excited about taking this step forward.

When I return, I plan to take out the maximum maintenance loan I’m eligible for to help cover the resources I’ll need for my studies. However, I’ve been advised to apply for Universal Credit, and I’m a bit confused about why this would be necessary. Since PIP isn’t means-tested and doesn’t affect a student loan, I’m unsure how Universal Credit fits into the picture.

I’ll admit, I sometimes feel like an advisor from my welfare team talks too much and gives advice that doesn’t quite make sense—or feels like a load of rubbish, to be honest. I also have a community mental health care team, but not all of them are quite honest or clear about what I actually need and don’t need.

Has anyone been in a similar situation? Could you share your experiences or clarify why Universal Credit might be recommended in my case? I’d really appreciate any advice or guidance!

Thanks so much in advance!

poppy123456

UC is a means tested benefit so whether there’s any entitlement will depend on your circumstances. If you live with a partner you will need to claim as a couple. If you have capital of more than £16,000 you’re excluded from claiming.

If there’s any entitlement you do not have to claim if you don’t want to and no one can force you. People claim because they are entitled to it and of course it would be extra money for you to live on.

If you claim then you will be treated as a job seeker. If your health conditions affect your ability to work you can report them and provide a fit note. You would then be referred for a work capability assessment.

When you return to education full time then yes any maintenance loan available to you will affect your UC and you would need to report the changes.

ha_spiderman1998

Thank you for your response. So, I do not need to claim this, and it is optional? Sorry for asking apian, I have a learning difficulty too/processing disorder. If I take out a student loan and maintenance loan from Student Finance, would I need to inform the DWP or PIP?

I was reviewing the PIP documents I received support with when filling out the form, and my condition hasn’t changed much—it’s the same. My mental health still affects my condition despite doing better, I guess. I spoke to an advisor, and they said I should be all good.