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Students and spouses

Who counts as a student?

You're counted as a full-time student for council tax if you are studying at:

  • a university, or
  • most colleges

You may qualify for a discount if you are under the age of 20 and your course: 

  • lead to a qualification up to (but not above) A-level standard or equivalent
  • lasts for more than three months
  • involves more than 12 hours of study per week

If you're studying at a university or college, the course must:

  • last for at least one academic or calendar year
  • need you to be studying at least 24 weeks out of a year
  • involve study of at least 21 hours per week during term time

Not all courses count towards 'full-time student' status. For example:

  • distance learning
  • evening classes
  • a course related to your job