Hey everyone,
I’m currently a first-year pharmacy student at the University of Birmingham, but I’m in a difficult situation and could really use some advice.
I have an unconditional offer to study pharmacy at UCL this September and plan to fund my tuition myself without taking out a student loan( for religious reasons). However, my parents have kicked me out upon hearing my plan, and I currently have university accommodation until July—but after that, I have nowhere to stay.
My plan was to work full-time during a gap year to save up for tuition and living costs, then start at UCL in 2026. But now, I’m worried about where I’ll live after July and whether I can still make this plan work. I’m looking into Centrepoint and other housing charities, but I don’t know if they’ll support me while I’m studying full-time.
A few questions I’d appreciate advice on:
1. Has anyone been in a similar situation and found housing support while studying?
2. Are there any other charities, grants, or hardship funds that could help?
3. If I officially become estranged from my parents, would that help me get financial or housing support?
4. If I become officially estranged, is it possible to receive housing while I work to fund my degree
I’d really appreciate any advice or guidance—this is a tough spot, and I want to make sure I don’t end up homeless while trying to sort my future out.
Thanks in advance!