- Important update
- What is STAG?
- How do I apply for STAG?
- Who can apply?
- When can I apply?
- When will I receive my award?
- Can I appeal?
- Can I apply again?
- Other financial support
Important update
The STAG fund is now closed for the remainder of the 2025/2026 academic year as all funding has been allocated.
The fund is expected to reopen in October 2026 for the 2026/2027 academic year.
Fraud warning: Do not pay anyone offering to secure financial support on your behalf. Requests for money or personal information may be part of a scam.
What is STAG?
The Short-Term Assistance Grant (STAG) is funded by the University of Hertfordshire and provides short-term support to students struggling with the cost of living.
The grant:
- Is available to Home and international students
- Provides a one-off award of £250
- Does not need to be repaid
How do I apply for STAG?
Before applying, read the full STAG criteria and application guidance.
When applications are open:
- Register on Blackbullion using your University email address.
- Complete the online application.
- Upload a one-month (30-day) bank statement for every bank account held in your name.
Applications are assessed individually based on your circumstances.
Who can apply?
You may be eligible if you are:
- A student at the University of Hertfordshire, or
- Studying a higher education course (Level 4 or above) at:
- Hertford Regional College
- North Hertfordshire College
- Oaklands College
- West Hertfordshire College
- Southgate College
Students with no recourse to public funds can apply if they meet the eligibility criteria.
When can I apply?
For the 2025/2026 academic year, application periods were:
|
Term |
Opening date |
Closing date |
|
Autumn |
20 October 2025 |
12 December 2025, 4pm |
|
Spring/Summer |
12 January 2026 |
3 July 2026, 4pm |
Funding is limited and applications are considered on a first-come, first-served basis.
The fund may close early if all available funding is allocated.
When will I receive my award?
If your application is successful:
- You will be notified through Blackbullion and your student email account.
- Payments are made directly to your bank account by BACS through Aspire.
- Applications are usually assessed within four working weeks of receiving a complete application and all required evidence.
During busy periods, assessment times may be longer.
Can I appeal?
No. Decisions on STAG applications are final and cannot be appealed.
If you would like to discuss the outcome of your application, contact:
Can I apply again?
You can only receive one successful STAG award per academic year.
Other financial support
The University offers a range of financial support schemes.
Visit the Financial Support page on Ask Herts to explore other funding options.
You may be able to receive STAG alongside other University awards if you meet the relevant eligibility criteria.