Anglia Ruskin University Finance Advice

Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) recognizes that managing finances effectively is crucial for student success and offers a comprehensive range of financial advice and support services to help students navigate their finances throughout their academic journey. This support covers everything from budgeting and managing debt to understanding student loans and finding funding opportunities.

Pre-Entry Financial Guidance

Before even stepping foot on campus, prospective students can access valuable information on tuition fees, maintenance loans, and potential scholarships or bursaries. ARU provides clear and easily accessible guides outlining the costs associated with studying, helping students plan their finances early on. They often host webinars and online sessions dedicated to financial planning, allowing prospective students to ask questions and gain a better understanding of the financial implications of university life.

On-Course Financial Support

Once enrolled, ARU students have access to a dedicated Student Money Advice team. This team provides personalized support and guidance on a wide range of financial issues. They can help students create realistic budgets, manage their spending, and understand their entitlement to student finance. Crucially, they offer confidential and impartial advice on debt management, helping students develop strategies to repay debts responsibly.

Key Areas of Support

• Budgeting and Money Management: The Money Advice team provides tools and resources to help students create and stick to a budget. They offer advice on how to track expenses, identify areas where savings can be made, and prioritize essential spending. Workshops and online resources cover topics such as cooking on a budget and finding affordable accommodation.
• Student Finance: ARU advisors can help students understand the intricacies of student loans, including application processes, repayment terms, and eligibility criteria. They can also assist with navigating the Student Finance England (or equivalent) website and resolving any issues that may arise.
• Hardship Funds: Recognizing that unforeseen circumstances can lead to financial hardship, ARU operates a hardship fund to provide emergency financial assistance to eligible students. These funds can help students cover unexpected expenses, such as essential repairs or medical bills. Applications are assessed on a case-by-case basis.
• Scholarships and Bursaries: ARU offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support students from diverse backgrounds and academic achievements. The university website provides a comprehensive list of available funding opportunities, along with eligibility requirements and application deadlines. The Money Advice team can also assist students in identifying and applying for suitable scholarships.
• Debt Management: The Money Advice team provides confidential and non-judgmental advice on debt management. They can help students assess their debt situation, explore repayment options, and negotiate with creditors. They also offer guidance on avoiding problem debt in the future.

Accessing Support

ARU makes accessing financial advice as easy as possible. Students can contact the Student Money Advice team via email, phone, or in person. The university website also hosts a wealth of online resources, including guides, FAQs, and budget templates. Regularly scheduled workshops and drop-in sessions provide further opportunities for students to engage with the Money Advice team and receive personalized support.

By providing comprehensive financial advice and support, Anglia Ruskin University empowers its students to manage their finances effectively, reducing financial stress and enabling them to focus on their academic studies and overall wellbeing.