Student Financial Support


 At NKC Tonbridge College, we believe that financial circumstances should never prevent you from accessing education. If you're studying on a government-funded Further Education course, you may be eligible for financial support to help with the cost of attending college.

Financial support is available to help with expenses such as:

  • Travel to and from college
  • Books and course materials
  • Specialist equipment and uniforms
  • Free college meals (for eligible students)
  • Other essential costs related to your course

The college also offers a range of bursary schemes for students from low-income households.

How do I apply for financial support? 

If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for Student Financial Support. Each application is assessed individually, and the level of support awarded depends on your personal circumstances.

Who can apply for financial support? 

You may be eligible for financial support if you:

  • Are enrolled on a government-funded Further Education course at NKC Tonbridge College.
  • Have a household income below the college's eligibility threshold.
  • Meet the criteria set out in the current government guidance.

Household income includes earnings, pensions and benefits. The amount of financial support you receive will depend on factors such as:

  • Your course of study
  • Where you live
  • How many days you attend college each week
  • Your individual financial circumstances

Are bursaries guaranteed? 

No. Bursaries are subject to government funding and are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis while funding remains available.

Government guidance and eligibility criteria may change during the academic year. Any updates will be communicated to students as soon as possible.

Will financial support affect my benefits? 

If you receive financial support from the college, you are responsible for informing the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), as it may affect your entitlement to certain state benefits.

Can the college change its financial support scheme? 

Yes. NKC Tonbridge College reserves the right to amend its financial support provision in line with changes to government funding, government guidance, or other exceptional circumstances.

Who can apply for financial support? 

Bursary awards are tailored to the individual student and the award allocated will depend upon your course of study, where you live and how many days you are timetabled to college. You are also eligible if you are on a government funded course and have a household income below the college criteria. This includes salaries, pensions and all benefits.