Gúa's Tuition fee
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My name is Gúa. I am a 23-year-old studying and living in London. I currently studying Stage Management and Technical Theatre at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. I am very fortunate to be able to attend my dream course,in one of the best Universities in London. Stage management or comparable studies are not taught in Iceland and therefore those wishing to pursue the programme must go abroad to other countries.
Unfortunately, I may have to give it up since the Icelandic Student Education Fund (LIN) denies me further student loans and say they have funded me the amount I am allowed.
In the summer of 2021 when I applied for the loan It was expressed to me that I was able to get the full amount for my whole tuition loan. Turnes out that that is not the case as I am left on my own with not help whatsoever. I'm not certain the LIN gave me misleading information, but they are not willing to help me any further. For your information, the amount I have been given from LIN is 6,300,000.- ISK or £37.337,76 The total of my tuition fees is 11,390,668.- ISK or £66,900.
Some facts for you:
- Since I don't have any Icelandic salary, I can't take an extra loan on top of my student loan from an Icelandic bank.
- I've applied for every possible grant I can find, Scandinavian, British, and Icelandic. Scholarships, art scholarships and more.
- I have tried to apply for extra student loans here in the UK but because of Brexit, I need to have a family that has lived here for at least three years.
I have contemplated taking a year off from my studies and working to cover my tuition fees:
- According to the rules, the course must be completed in three consecutive years. That is to retain the rights of my Icelandic student loans and my Visa registration.
- To be able to get a VISA I had to pay £3,000 for health insurance (NHS). Again, If I would take a break from school, I'd be right back where I started.
- I am permitted, according to student VISA rules, to work with my studies in the UK, but not more than 20 hours per week, which is currently not enough to cover my rent.
Unfortunately, the education fund has not been able to help me beyond the loan they have already lent me. They're very stuck in their rules. I have tried to reach out to them countless times, but they have no interest in helping or giving me advice.
Most of the time, the answer is just a cold "No."
My parents have supported me throughout my studies. They are always reminding me how incredibly lucky I am to attend this program, at this school and how important this program is to my future as a performer. They help me financially a lot more than they can, but unfortunately, it's not enough.
Thanks for taking the time to read this and possibly help me pursue my dreams and graduate :)
Organizer
Gua Astudottir
Organizer
England