Tuition fees
For eligible students studying in Scotland, SAAS may pay tuition fees directly, so you do not have to pay them upfront yourself.
HomeStudent funding in Scotland
SAAS Guide
A simple guide to student funding in Scotland — without making it more confusing than it already is.
If you’re planning to go to university or college in Scotland, SAAS is one of the main things you’ll probably need to deal with.
It can sound stressful at first, especially when people start talking about tuition fees, bursaries, loans, supporting documents, and deadlines. But once you understand the basics, it becomes much more manageable.
This guide breaks SAAS down in a simple way so you know what it is, what support you might get, how to apply, and where to go if you need help.
Don’t forget
Funding rules, deadlines, and payment details can change, so always double-check the official SAAS website before applying.
What is SAAS?
SAAS stands for Student Awards Agency Scotland.
It is the organisation that provides funding support for eligible students studying in higher education in Scotland.
Depending on your situation, SAAS can help with things like:
- tuition fees
- bursaries
- student loans
- grants or allowances in some cases
If you’re a Scottish student planning to study at university or college, SAAS is often a really important part of making your next step affordable.
Good to know
SAAS is not the same as UCAS.
UCAS is how you apply for your course.
SAAS is about student funding and financial support.
What support can SAAS give you?
The exact support available depends on your course, where you study, your age, and your household circumstances.
In general, SAAS support may include:
Bursary
A bursary is money you do not usually have to pay back. Whether you get one — and how much — depends on your circumstances.
Student loan
You may also be able to apply for a student loan to help with living costs. This is borrowed money, so it does need to be repaid later under student loan rules.
Extra support
Some students may also be eligible for extra help depending on their circumstances, for example if they are carers, disabled students, independent students, or have childcare responsibilities.
Need help?
The support you get is not the same for everyone, so it’s really important to check what applies to you personally rather than comparing yourself too much to other people.
How to apply for SAAS
The SAAS application process is usually done online.
A simple step-by-step:
1. Create your SAAS account
You’ll need to register and set up your account through the official SAAS website.
2. Start your application
Fill in your personal details, course information, and any other required information carefully.
3. Check whether you need to provide evidence
Some students may be asked for supporting documents depending on their circumstances.
4. Submit your application
Make sure everything is correct before sending it.
5. Wait for updates
After you submit, SAAS will process your application and send updates, including your funding decision or award information.
Don’t forget
Apply as early as you can. Leaving it late can create unnecessary stress, especially if documents are needed.
Things students often get confused about
Do I have to apply every year?
Yes — in many cases, student funding applications are not just a one-time thing. You may need to apply again for each academic year, so do not assume it automatically continues forever.
Do I have to take the student loan?
No — a student loan is usually optional. Some students choose to take it, and some choose to take less or not take it depending on their circumstances.
Do I need supporting documents?
Possibly. Some students do, some do not. If SAAS asks you for documents, make sure you upload or send them properly and on time.
When will I get paid?
This depends on your funding type and the timing of your application. Always check your SAAS account and official communications carefully.
What if my circumstances change?
If something important changes, such as your course, your household situation, or your study plans, update SAAS or check what you need to do rather than ignoring it.
Career Blossom tip
A lot of stress comes from not checking your account properly. Get into the habit of checking your emails, SAAS account updates, and any requests for documents.
Need help? Where to go
If you’re confused or stuck, you do not have to figure everything out alone.
The best places to look for help are usually the official SAAS website, SAAS contact and help pages, your school or college advisers, university or college funding teams, and parents or carers if they’re supporting you through the process.
SAAS also offers online support options, including help/contact pages and web chat tools on its official site. Contact methods can change, so always check the official website for the latest options.
Need help?
If you’re unsure about your funding, the best thing you can do is ask early rather than panic later.
Useful things to ask when you need help
- Am I eligible for SAAS funding?
- What kind of support can I apply for?
- Do I need to upload any documents?
- When should I apply?
- When will I hear back?
- Do I need to reapply next year?
- What happens if my circumstances change?
Your SAAS checklist
Before applying
- ✓Check the official SAAS website
- ✓Understand the difference between tuition fees, bursaries, and loans
- ✓Find out what support may apply to you
- ✓Keep important personal/course information ready
While applying
- ✓Create your SAAS account
- ✓Fill in your application carefully
- ✓Double-check your details
- ✓Upload supporting documents if asked
- ✓Submit as early as possible
After applying
- ✓Check your emails
- ✓Check your SAAS account for updates
- ✓Read your funding decision carefully
- ✓Make sure your bank details are correct if needed
- ✓Remember that you may need to apply again the following year
Take it one step at a time
Student finance can feel intimidating, but it gets much easier once you break it down and take it one step at a time.
You do not need to know everything straight away. The important thing is understanding the basics, applying on time, and asking for help when you need it.
If you’re still figuring out what you want to study or what kind of path might suit you, start by understanding yourself better.
Take the Career Blossom testThis guide is for general support only. SAAS rules, deadlines, and available support can change, so always check the official SAAS website and your school or college guidance for the most up-to-date information.