Can I receive benefits as an asylum or sanctuary seeking student?
Answer
Most full-time students, regardless of immigration status, are excluded from claiming JSAIB, IRESA, IS and housing benefit. However, some students can claim these benefits. Non-student partners may be able to claim these benefits for the couple. Carers allowance cannot be claimed by full-time students but can be claimed by non-student partners.
Universal Credit is due to replace JSAIB, IRESA, IS, Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credits and Working Tax Credit. The rules for full-time students are mainly the same but there are some differences. Universal Credit has been introduced gradually from 28th October 2013, in selected local areas across the country. But the timetable for change has not been finalised. The Salford Citizens Advice Bureau can provide you with further details and support of what benefits are available and the eligibility criteria necessary to apply.
Some full-time students may be able to access benefits to help with living costs and housing costs. These are:
- Lone Parents
- Students living as part of a couple
- Disabled Students
A complete overview of the support that is available can be found on page 50, of the Article 26, Education for All guide.