Questions regarding student finance and universal credit

JD01

Hi everyone,

I have a query regarding universal credit LCWRA and housing element with student finance.

I have been accepted into my dream university course, it's distanced learning and an accelerated degree. Naturally, ive applied for a student loan to cover my tuition fees, which has been accepted. As well as applying for DSA, but I have not applied for a maintenance loan. As I do not need one as I'll be learning from home.

My questions are:

As I've not applied for the maintenance loan does my limited capability for work and work related activity make any difference to what's regarded as income at all to universal credit?

If I do not apply for the maintenance loan will universal credit still take it into account? Even if I haven't received any money.

If it does still apply does this effect my housing element of the universal credit?

If I was to take the maintenance loan, would they close my UC claim?

Thank you.

Kimi87

As this is a complex area, I'd recommend contacting Disability Rights UK who have a Disabled Students Helpline

https://www.disabilityrightsuk.org/disabled-students-helpline

Generally with a loan available UC will count it even if you choose not to count it.

UC is a benefit made up of different elements. Your entitlement is added up, then deductions are made from the total. So yes it would affect LCWRA & Housing Element.

I'd advise speaking to the experts.