Help with the cost of living

An illustration where four students chat together on one end of the illustration and one student sits at a computer on the other end

The cost of living has increased for everyone – we’re all feeling like managing our money is getting harder. We’re working hard to find new ways to support you alongside the advice and resources we already have in place. On this page, you’ll find links to existing support, funding, on-campus resources and more.

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We are continually updating the content below as more support is provided. The content on this page was last updated on 26 September 2024.

 

Advice and resources

Money Saving Toolkit

We've put together our top money saving tips and advice to help you save money at home, on-campus and when you're out exploring Salford, Manchester or further afield. Explore our blogs, free tools and external resources below.

Financial support

Bursaries, scholarships and support funds

If you need additional financial support to help you while you study with us there are a number of options available, whether you're searching for donor-funded scholarships or are experiencing hardship as a result of ongoing financial difficulties. Explore the different options available:

Types of financial support available

Money Matters Drop-In Service

Whether you have questions about your financial situation, want to pick up budgeting tips or just want a chat around money advice, pop down to our Money Matters drop-in service. Our Money Advice and Funds Service will be available to talk every Wednesday in the askUS lounge in University House, 12:00-13:00, both in and out of term time. 

Financial Support Funds

Salford Support Fund

The Salford Support Fund and the International Support Fund were created to help students who are experiencing exceptional financial difficulties to achieve their potential at University. Due to the current Cost of Living crisis, we have increased the funds available and made changes in line with inflation and energy cost increases. When applying to the Salford Support Fund (UK students), you can state ‘cost of living/energy bills’ as a reason in your personal statement along with any other circumstances/reasons for your application for hardship funding.

The Support Funds for the 2024/25 academic year will open on Monday 16 September until 27 July 2025. 

 

Household Support Fund

You may also be eligible for Salford City Council's Household Support Fund, provided by the Department for Work and Pensions. If you are a Salford resident, you could receive support to help you with food, fuel and energy costs. The scheme is discretionary and the funds will be used to support households in the most need.

Information is required to complete the application such as your current energy supplier, a recent bank statement and Universal Credit Journal (where applicable). The deadline to apply is Monday 30 September 2024.

Scholarships and grants

Donor-funded scholarships and bursaries

It is through the generosity of our alumni, friends and industry partners that we are able to provide a number of donor-funded scholarships and bursaries for University of Salford students who would otherwise find it challenging to fund their studies.

Scholarships can offer you more than just financial support, such as boosting your employability. There are a range of scholarships and bursaries available at a University-wide level, as well as specific to schools and subject areas, supporting talented students who may need additional financial aid to support their time at Salford.

 

Sporting Performance Scholarships 

If you're a student athlete, you could be eligible for one of the Students' Union sporting performance scholarships. These offer financial support and exclusive access to facilities to help you enhance your performance goals.

 

Santander Universities

Santander offer a range of cash and prize giveaways alongside scholarship opportunities for all Salford students. You don't need to bank with Santander to enter - you just need to create a free Santander Universities account. Current opportunities include:

Student finance, fees and funding application support

You need to pay for your tuition fees and living costs while you are studying. Head to our website to find out more about funding options for your stage of study and make sure you're receiving everything you're entitled to.

Support for care-experienced students, estranged students or carers

We recognise that, for students who have caring responsibilities, are care-experienced or have no support from family, coming to university can be challenging and you may need extra support, whether that's for your studies, wellbeing or your finances. Find out what you are entitled to and the support we offer on our website.

Salford Inspire Scheme

From September, undergraduate and international students in years 1, 2 and 3 will be eligible to receive £150 online credit. Additionally, Integrated Master's students will also be eligible for the award in their final year of study. Find out more on our website.

 

Supplement your income with part-time work

Save the Student found that 56% of surveyed students earned money through a part-time job while at university. If you are looking to top up your income with part-time work alongside your studies, our teams can help.

Personal support

Support for your wellbeing

We know that financial problems can have a massive impact on your wellbeing. Whether you need practical support or just someone to talk to, our friendly Wellbeing Advisers are here to help.