Student support

Students whose university choices have changed following last week’s exam results are being encouraged to amend their funding applications as soon as possible.

The Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS) are ready and waiting to advise students on how to make these changes.

Education Secretary Michael Russell said:

“With a record number of Scots-domiciled students securing a place in Higher Education on results day, a record number of Higher passes and the first results from our National 4 and 5 qualifications, this has been a summer of huge significance for Scottish education.

“Our universities continue to perform alongside the best in the world and the rate of young people staying in a positive destination after leaving school reached 90 per cent this year.

“Education in Scotland is based on the ability to learn, not the ability to pay, and students from the poorest backgrounds are eligible for up to £7,500 financial support a year. As requested by NUS Scotland, they have more money available to them during their time at university, but it is also vital that they don’t miss out.

"Clearly, not every student will have secured their first choice of course or institution, which means that many will require to amend their original application. Also, there are some students who have yet to apply for their student funding, and following last week’s results I’d urge everyone to submit their forms as soon as possible in order to fully enjoy their first weeks of the new academic year.”

The Student Awards Agency for Scotland helpline number is 0300 555 0505 and students can also visit www.saas.gov.uk/contactus.