Estranged students – help with study-related costs

Estranged students at the Open University in Scotland can apply for financial support available specifically to help them with study related costs.  

We know that many estranged students have faced challenges in accessing higher education and in managing their studies alongside everything else going on in their lives. This financial support intends to recognise estranged students’ achievements and provide some extra support where needed.  

The definition of estranged from family the OU uses is ‘someone who no longer has contact with their parents or legal guardians, due to a permanent breakdown in their relationship (isolated instances of contact will be considered on a case by case basis). Estranged students have no experience of being in care and do not have a corporate parent responsible for them.’

Digital Inclusion Fund for Estranged Students:​

• Funding to help students access information and communication technology (ICT) equipment; Items include laptop/tablet, monitor, printer, headset, mouse and keyboard. This fund does not cover connectivity equipment or costs for internet bills. All OU students have access to Microsoft 365 through StudentHome. 
• For OU students in Scotland, as it is funded by the Scottish Funding Council.  
• As funds are limited, we encourage students to apply as early as possible to avoid disappointment.  
• More information on the eligibility criteria is available on the Digital Inclusion Fund application form (.doc).

You may not be eligible for the Digital Inclusion Fund if you have already received funds to purchase the same or similar digital equipment through other means of  financial support available to OU students. For example, through the Disabled Students' Allowance, Discretionary Funds, or the Connecting Scotland initiative. If this is the case, please tell us more in your application.