Mature student UC vs HB CTB and UC

laffertyk

hello all,

I am disabled, I receive PIP and UC limited capacity (can’t work group), I live with my 2 older children My son 18 is off to University this September 2025 and my Autistic Daughter 17 will be off to University next September 2026. I currently receive UC paying the majority of rent, so from next August any childcare elements will stop I assume.

I really want to go to University myself to study law but I have my 3 bed home to maintain rent/ bills to pay and adult children who won’t be able to contribute as they are away studying, etc

UC have said I can’t claim UC if I’ve a student loan so what do I do or where can I go? How do I afford it? I’m worried I won’t be able to
Will I be able to claim housing benefit separately from UC will I still be entitled to it?

I tried to ask Citizens advice but they couldn’t find the answer either I’m based in Warwickshire Rugby Borough Council is my local one.

many help and advice appreciated

Kimi87

You won't be able to claim Housing Benefit, because you are neither of state pension age or living in supported/sheltered housing. Those are the only circumstances a new claim can be made.

It looks to me like you meet the conditions to carry on getting UC.

https://www.scope.org.uk/advice-and-support/loans-scholarships-might-affect-benefits#:~:text=But%20you%20can%20claim%20Universal%20Credit%20as,claims%20on%20or%20after%2015%20December%202021)

laffertyk

oh ok but it says non advanced courses and the chap at UC said that doesn't include degrees or degree level courses?

Kimi87

When you call UC they are little more than call center staff reading off a screen.

I'd seek independent verification.

Disability Rights UK have a student helpline

0330 995 0414

although their website is down at the time of writing this.

laffertyk

thank you so much I appreciate it, if they say I can then do UC have to go along with this? Sorry if that’s a daft question I don’t really understand much about UC yet either I’m quite new to it

Kimi87

They'll be able to advise you on the rules regarding students and UC, yes UC have to follow their own rules.