August 12, 2013, by Jemma Utley
How to apply for our Work Experience Grant successfully
Things have settled down in the Work Experience Grant team after a busy few months processing applications for funding to support students’ work experience.
You could get up to £500 to help with costs incurred such as travel expenses, office wear and equipment! Last year we had 394 applications out of which 242 were successful so we thought that we could answer some FAQs to help your application go smoothly.
Can I apply if my placement has already started?
The grant is there to help support students who need additional finances in order to enable them to do their placement. You cannot use it to pay back expenses once your placement has finished. To benefit you must apply before the placement has started.
When should I apply?
It can take us up to six weeks to process an application. We advise that you get your application in to us as soon as possible to be considered. If you apply close to the start of your work placement, it is unlikely that we will be able to process your application in time.
How much money could I receive?
The amount awarded depends on the terms of your work experience and will be judged on a case-by-case basis. If you can justify that you need the full £500 by itemising your costs then you could be awarded it. Your expenditure will be assessed by us so if you over-claim your application could be rejected. For guidance on how much can be claimed please see the webpage.
Can I apply as a graduate?
If you are a graduate or due to graduate before your placement starts, you are not eligible to apply. This grant is for current students only.
What if the placement is overseas?
Work placements must be within a British company or a company that has a British base and the work experience must be of benefit to the British economy. If you have got your placement through a placement sourcing company you still might not be eligible depending on the work experience you are doing.
Can I apply more than once?
If you are successful in getting the grant you can not apply again even if you are not awarded the full £500.
When should I give you my employer confirmation letter?
All applications must be accompanied by an employer confirmation letter to prove the legitimacy of the placement. Examples of this can be downloaded from the webpage. An application will not be considered without this and we do not request or chase employer confirmations; this is your responsibility. If your employer letter arrives with us after the placement, even though you applied in advance, your application will not be considered.
Questions? Contact Vicky Emery on 0115 846 7173, or follow #WorkExpGrant on Twitter and ask, or comment below and your query will be forwarded to the team!
[…] To find out more about all your work experience options have a look on our website and book an appointment with a member of our team. If you need any help funding your work experience read our article on ‘How to apply for our Work Experience Grant successfully.’ […]