Student Finance Support from Pembrokeshire County Council

Pembrokeshire County Council plays a vital role in supporting students from the region who are pursuing higher education. While the primary source of funding is Student Finance Wales (SFW), the council provides essential advice and assistance to help students navigate the application process and understand their entitlements.

The council’s primary function is to ensure Pembrokeshire students are aware of the financial support available to them. They achieve this through various channels, including:

• Website Information: The Pembrokeshire County Council website offers comprehensive information about student finance, linking directly to the Student Finance Wales portal. This resource often includes details on eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and the different types of funding available, such as tuition fee loans, maintenance loans, and grants.
• School and College Liaison: The council collaborates with local schools and colleges to deliver student finance workshops and presentations. These sessions aim to educate students about the application process and answer any queries they may have. They often target students in their final years of secondary education.
• Direct Advice and Guidance: While not providing direct financial assistance, the council can offer guidance and support in understanding the SFW process. Students and their families can often contact the council’s education department for clarification on complex aspects of student finance.
• Promoting Bursaries and Scholarships: The council may also promote information about local and national bursaries and scholarships that Pembrokeshire students are eligible to apply for. These additional funding sources can significantly reduce the financial burden of higher education.

It’s important to understand that the council doesn’t directly administer student loans or grants. Instead, they act as a signposting service, directing students to the appropriate resources within Student Finance Wales.

For Pembrokeshire students, the key takeaway is to apply to Student Finance Wales as early as possible. The application process can take time, and early application ensures funds are available at the start of the academic year. Student Finance Wales assesses applications based on household income, so it’s important to gather all necessary financial information before starting the application.

If you are a student from Pembrokeshire struggling to understand the student finance system, contacting Pembrokeshire County Council’s education department or visiting their website is a good first step. They can provide valuable assistance and point you in the right direction to access the funding you are entitled to.