Crafting a compelling covering letter to accompany your student finance application is crucial, as it allows you to personalize your situation and preemptively address any potential concerns the assessing body might have. While the application itself provides the framework, your covering letter offers the opportunity to provide context, clarify unusual circumstances, and proactively submit supporting evidence.
The primary purpose of your covering letter is to introduce yourself and succinctly explain the rationale behind your application. Begin by clearly stating your name, student finance application reference number (if applicable), and the academic year you are applying for. Directly address the intended recipient (e.g., ‘Student Finance Team’).
Next, briefly outline your financial situation. If your application involves complexities, such as independent student status, estranged family relationships, or unusual income fluctuations, explain them clearly and concisely. For example, if you’re claiming independent status due to being estranged from your parents, detail the circumstances of the estrangement and the duration. Be factual and avoid overly emotional language; stick to the key details relevant to your financial assessment.
Crucially, your covering letter should act as a roadmap for the supporting evidence you are submitting. Refer to each piece of evidence explicitly within the letter, explaining its relevance and purpose. For instance, “Attached, please find a letter from my social worker, confirming my independent living arrangements since [Date].” Or, “I have enclosed bank statements for the past three months, as requested, demonstrating the limited funds available to me.” By explicitly connecting your evidence to the points you make in your letter, you make it easier for the assessors to understand your application and its supporting documentation.
When submitting evidence related to income, such as payslips or P60s, clearly state which tax year the evidence pertains to. If your income has significantly changed since the relevant tax year, explain why and provide further supporting documentation, such as a current employment contract or a termination notice from a previous job. This helps Student Finance understand your current financial standing, rather than relying solely on historical data.
It’s also vital to explain any gaps in your employment history or periods of unemployment. Briefly outline the reasons for these gaps and provide any relevant supporting documentation, such as medical certificates or letters from previous employers. Transparency is key to building trust and ensuring a fair assessment.
Finally, reiterate the key points of your application and thank the Student Finance Team for their time and consideration. Provide your contact information (phone number and email address) and politely request that they contact you if they require any further information or clarification. A well-written and comprehensive covering letter, paired with carefully selected and clearly labelled supporting evidence, significantly increases the likelihood of a smooth and successful student finance application process.
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