Full time students (and others) may be disregarded when Council Tax is calculated.

When is an exemption possible?

If only students live in the property, it may be exempt. This means that no-one has to pay Council Tax for that property.

When is a discount possible?

Council Tax is normally charged on the assumption that two or more people aged 18 or over live in a property.

If there is only one adult living there, they can apply for a single person’s discount of 25%. However, if anyone aged 18 or over is a student and without them there is only one adult living in the property, you may apply for the same 25% discount.

Who is a student?

• A full time student is defined as someone studying for more than 21 hours a week and more than 24 weeks a year. The course must be higher or further education and last for at least one academic or calendar year.
• A qualifying student is defined as someone under the age of 20, studying for more than three months and at least12 hours a week, for any qualification up to A-level, Ordinary National Certificate or Ordinary National Diploma standard.
• Please note: Correspondence courses, evening classes or courses in connection with a person’s job are not included.

How to I apply for a student disregard?

If you qualify under one of the above categories the registry at your college or university will give you a student certificate. You must attach this to the completed electronic application form below.

What if a student certificate is not available?

Please supply a bespoke headed letter from the educational establishment detailing:

• The full name of the student
• A statement certifying that the person is following/ has followed a course of education as a full time student.
• The date the person became a student and the date the course is expected to end.

What happens if I qualify?

We will send you an adjusted bill showing the appropriate reduction within 10 working days of receipt of your documents.