For most students, 'student finance' (or student loan) is the usual way to get funding for university.

Student loans may sound overwhelming, but you only start paying them off once you earn over a certain amount.

The rules about student funding are complicated and will depend on where you live.

To be assessed as a care leaver by Student Finance and receive maximum funding as an independent student, you will need to provide written evidence to support your application. A letter from your Local Authority confirming your care leaving status should be sent to Student Finance. This will only need to be done once, with your first application.

• Care leavers are also able to get additional funding which will not need to be paid back.
• Cardiff University may provide you with an additional Care Leavers Bursary.
• You may also be able to get financial help form your Local Authority if you start university before your 25th Birthday.

Make sure you get advice about the funding you could receive before you start University.