MSP urges applicants for “best package of support in the UK” to apply quickly.

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South of Scotland MSP Joan McAlpine is encouraging local young people studying at Scottish universities after summer to complete their application for financial support now, if they have not already done so.

The Scottish Government pays the fees and a combination of bursaries and loans, based on household income, for all Scottish students studying in Scottish universities.  A record number of Scots have been accepted to Scottish universities this year and in order to receive their package as quickly as possible, students should complete their applications and send them to the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS) immediately.

Commenting, the SNP MSP said:

“As local youngsters prepare to head off to university in September, it is crucial that they make sure they have applied for student support. It is great to hear that a record number of students have already completed their application, however those who have yet to complete their form really must do so urgently.

“The Scottish Government pays the fees of Scots going to our universities as well as providing a combination of loans and bursaries, which gives young Scots the best package of support in the UK.

“Since last year, the SNP government has invested an additional £2 million to help SAAS process applications quickly but it is important that students apply now to help make sure their support is in place as quickly as possible.”

Following a successful campaign by SAAS, NUS Scotland and student associations, a record number of students have applied for their fees and support package on time and have their funding package in place. Around 25,000 students – expecting to start courses very soon – have yet to make an application to SAAS.

The SAAS Helpline, 0300 555 0505, has extended opening hours and is now open from 08:00 to 19:00 Monday to Friday, with advisors ready to help students with their applications.

Background

More information on the package of support for Scottish students is available from

http://www.saas.gov.uk/_forms/funding_guide.pdf

Students can find out how to apply for support from SAAS at

http://www.saas.gov.uk/how_to_apply/index.htm

Information about the additional funding from the Scottish Government is available from

http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2013/05/More-money-available-for-students10052013