For some students, getting funding for study is easy. Most UK students can access the student loan system and even some students from overseas can apply for a loan to study in Scotland. However, for others, it is not that straightforward. If you want to come to RCS to study but you know that finding the cash might be difficult, take a look at our advice.

Start your research early

Even if you don’t yet have an offer for your chosen course, imagine that you do! Being prepared in advance is essential so check out all the options on the RCS funding pages. Remember that effective research should also involve you considering in detail how much money you will need in Glasgow.

Think outside the box

Social media has had a major impact on student life in recent years and many people use it to great advantage!  Crowdfunding can be a fantastic way to raise money, particularly for creative people who are good at showing off their talents.  Check out this excellent blog by Save the Student on how to crowdfund.

Take advantage of what is available

If you have access to student loans then take them. At RCS we expect successful applicants to have exploited all financial avenues available to them and whilst we do award music scholarships based on talent, any award made by RCS will never be enough to cover all your costs.

Start saving!

This might seem obvious, and for some, it won’t be possible, but if you can do it then you should.

What should you do if you need to get a job to fund your study costs? Try to be adaptable and look carefully at what type of work is available in Glasgow.  If you don’t have skills in these areas, try to develop them in the time between submitting your application and starting your course.

Having significant money worries whilst studying can be hugely stressful and it can make your course much less enjoyable. RCS has several hardship funds available to assist students with their living costs in the short term but if you know that you’ll have a huge shortfall then think carefully about accepting an offer of a place. The International and Student Experience team welcome any questions about funding via welfare@rcs.ac.uk