Studnet and CSA

Hello,

My partner is currently studying full time for one year Masters degree that will finish later in Sept this year and has just received a letter from the CSA asking if the programmes offers a placement as part of it?

Please can someone advise why they''re asking this and whether they''re entitled to this information as they have already been provided with evidence to show the course being studies, the length of it and the university it will be studied at?

Because often if there is a placement there will be a salary paid whilst on it.

Thank you for your prompt reply Wyspecial.

Is there a definition of what constitutes to a full time student with the CSA?

The reason I''m asking is because there is a significant proportion allocated to the dissertation; a research based project (obviously unpaid) but not your typical class room based study.

Will the CSA accept this as being part of the full time study?

They base it on your income.

Student loans and student grants are not included as income but if you earn anything, like from a part time job or a work placement then it will be.

I think you misunderstood the question. They were trying to ascertain whether doing research as opposed to class room based study makes a difference with the csa? i.e are you still classed as full time study if doing research only for the course?

P.s. I understand part time earnings etc are only considered if earning over 100 per week under csa2?

Doesn''t matter what sort of study, or even if you do study it is all down to your income.

Under CS2 income over £7 per week but less than £100 qualified as flat rate, ie £5.

We''re on CS3/CMS/gross scheme now though.

Sorry if I come accross as a bit slow but I don''t quite understand you.

He''s not on the gross scheme until later this year and after he''s finished his studies?