If I apply for SFE, how will it affect PIP/ESA?

Hello,

I'm thinking of applying for a uni course this year as a mature student. I previously had to withdraw from a degree course two years ago because of my condition.

If I apply for 'Student Finance England' funding/loans will the application itself affect my PIP and ESA? For example will the DWP be informed and perhaps review my ESA/PIP earlier than they would otherwise have?

I might apply for student loans this year in case I can get a place and in case I feel able to cope come September BUT I might well withdraw my application for loans and NOT start a course in September if I am too unwell at the time. I don't want to apply if it will affect my benefits though.

Thanks for any help/advice!

Thanks Gordon.

I did receive PIP and ESA when I was at Uni before so I know that my ESA will be reduced when I receive loans.

I was just wondering whether Student Finance England will inform the DWP of my application immediately and whether the DWP might then send ESA/PIP renewal forms early?

Gordon wrote:

Ellie wrote: I was just wondering whether Student Finance England will inform the DWP of my application immediately and whether the DWP might then send ESA/PIP renewal forms early?

I'm not aware of any requirement for SFE to contact the DWP but obviously, if your doing this course is the result of an improvement in your conditions then you are obligated to notify the DWP of this, doing so will almost certainly result in a reassessment of your claims.

Gordon

Hi Gordon,

My condition hasn't got better but instead I am hoping to arrange more support to help me through university this time round. However I think that it is quite unlikely that I will be able to cope with University this academic year but just want to apply IN CASE I feel able to and might well defer for a year.

I just think that it would be a bit gutting if I apply to 'Student Finance England' but then decide not to go to University BUT SFE inform the DWP and I'm called for a PIP/ESA review.