Opportunities for students
When conducting your research, make sure you take a close look at the 'value added' elements: work experience, internships, soft skills development, accreditations, and work-related opportunities that are embedded in the course description. Additionally, research the provider's Careers and Student Support services pages and investigate the opportunities available outside of the curriculum. Have a look at their alumni — where are their graduates now?
Student life
There are many influencing factors when choosing where your child will study, including course, location, student support, student life and often where their friends or family are going — or even went previously.
It is also important to consider what skills, training, and experience your child will acquire whilst studying for their degree. With fees at over £9,000 per year, you need to feel reassured that your child will be well-prepared to enter the workforce at graduate level.
What to consider
DiscoverUni
DiscoverUni is an independent website run by the Office for Students. It lets you see what students say about their course and provider, and how graduates have fared in securing employment.
Scholarships, bursaries and grants
Financial awards that do not need to be repaid. They are given for many different reasons — not only academic excellence — and many are not over-subscribed. Some struggle to award at all.
Careers and part-time work
At Bloomsbury, classes only take place three days per week — enabling students to support their studies and gain experience through part-time work. Our Careers team supports long-term goals and part-time opportunities.
Understanding student finance
Student loans
Most domestic undergraduate students will be eligible to apply for a Student Loan through the Student Loan Company (SLC) via Student Finance England (SFE). Apply as soon as possible — it can take up to 6 weeks to get the loan in place.
Applying for a loan
An online application takes around 30 minutes. Students can apply for a maintenance loan as well as a loan to cover tuition fees. Provide all evidence SFE ask for — missing documentation can significantly slow down the process.
Repayment threshold
Student loans are not based on current ability to pay, but on what your child will earn when they graduate. Nothing is payable until earnings exceed £25,725 per year, and then only 9% of anything over that threshold.
Living costs in London
Studying is not cheap — it's not only course fees to consider but also general living costs. London is an expensive city, but we provide additional financial support including a Travel Bursary and a Hardship Fund for students who fall on hard times.
Budgeting tips
Students receive their maintenance loan in 3 instalments, usually at the beginning of each term. Encourage your child to budget carefully so the money lasts throughout the term. Many free apps are available to help with budgeting and financial planning.
Practical life skills
Help your child prepare for independent living before they start their studies. A little preparation goes a long way in making the transition to university life smoother and less stressful.
Do they know how to cook? How to shop effectively and avoid waste?
Do they know how to do their own laundry without making everything look the same colour?
Make sure they can take care of their own healthcare — register at a Doctor/Dentist and redirect any repeat prescriptions through their new doctor.
Speak to them about the importance of mental wellbeing and physical fitness, especially when dealing with the stress of beginning a new life.
Help them identify a safe place to keep all important documentation: NI number, passport, banking details, household insurance, NHS number, etc.
Have a question?
Our admissions team is happy to speak with parents and guardians about supporting your child through their studies.
Monday – Friday, 9am – 5pm (except bank holidays)