5 Top Tips for Success at University (Parent Edition)

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It’s common to talk about tips for success at university, but an often-underrepresented factor is the impact of parenting on your studies, and how to get the grades you want with all the support you need.

Here are some tips and tricks to help you succeed if you’re a parent going into further education.

1. You May Be Entitled to Financial Support

As a full-time student, you may be entitled to extra financial support from the UK government if you are a parent of one or more children. 

The Parents’ Learning Allowance is a good place to start. It’s paid on top of any Government student finance you are entitled to, and you don’t have to pay this back. 

It’s paid in 3 instalments, and you could get between £50-£1,863 for the 2022-2023 academic year.

2. Consider your Distance Learning Opportunities

Distance Learning courses from universities such as Anglia Ruskin are a great way to work around parenting commitments because you can learn anywhere at any time. 

This flexibility means that you can study around any part-time or full-time work that you might be committed to in addition to your parenting responsibilities.

As a result, you can still learn while earning a wage to support your family without worrying about having to give up your paid income.

3. Be Organised

Plan your semester in advance and decide how you want to divide your time up around your commitments. 

Planning in advance will help you avoid cramming for deadlines or missing important preparation work, as well as allowing you to anticipate important events like essay deadlines and exams.

4. Lean into your Support Network

Despite the numerous rewards that both parenting and university studies provide, it can be an intense experience. So, make sure to keep in touch with your friends and family and don’t forget to check-in with yourself!

You can utilise your university’s support services if you’re struggling. They can help to signpost you to the tools available to support you on your educational journey.

You can also contact the NHS Mental Health Services for advice and support or ask your GP for a referral.

5. Create Time for Yourself

Try and schedule some time for yourself that doesn’t involve studying or parenting if you can. 

Join a club or take up a hobby that will distract you and provide you with some time to de-stress.

Websites like Craft Courses are packed with local craft courses that are sorted by type, location and price. 

Whether it’s related to your area of learning, or you just want to try something new, crafts are a great way to re-focus your brain.

You may also find that paper games such as Sudoku, wordsearches, and crosswords have the same effect if you find yourself with less time in the day to invest fully in a craft or hobby. Most of these are available for free on the internet.

Do you have any tips for attending university while being a parent? Let us know in the comments below!