Student council tax discounts and exemptions

If you're a full-time student, you may be eligible for a Council Tax discount or exemption.

Apply for a student council tax discount or exemption

Who qualifies as a full-time student?

To be classed as a full-time student for Council Tax purposes, you must:

  • Attend a recognised higher education institution for at least 24 weeks per academic year
  • Study for at least 21 hours per week
  • Provide a student certificate from your university or college registrar

A Student certificate can usually be obtained from your university or college registrar. Your certificate must include:

  • Your full name
  • Start and end dates of your course
  • Weekly study hours

No other proof of student status will be accepted.

Council tax exemptions and discounts

  • If all residents in a property are full-time students, the property is exempt from Council Tax (Class N).
  • If some but not all the people living in the property are full time students, you may be able to claim a disregards discount.

Other people who may qualify

  • Foreign language students
    Must provide written evidence of registration with the Central Bureau of Educational Visits and Exchanges.

  • Students under 20 years of age
    Studying full-time courses like A levels, ONC or OND. A letter from the school or college must confirm:

    • Date of birth
    • Course type
    • Start and end dates
  • Non-British spouse or dependant of a student
    Must provide:

    • A student certificate
    • A copy of the dependents visa showing they are unable to work or claim benefits in the UK

Who doesn’t qualify

You won’t be considered a full-time student if you’re studying:

  • Evening classes
  • Job-related training
  • Home study or distance learning
  • Open University courses