Books Plus is changing, and we're here to keep you informed and settle your fears, as well as how it will affect you. Don't panic - if you need the support, it will still be available in one way or another.
Find out exactly what the new changes mean to you depending on your circumstances.
Are you panicking about the changes to Books Plus? This article will set all your worries at ease.
I'm a current student... Does that mean I won't get Books Plus anymore?
If you are already studying with ARU, then your Books Plus bursary will not be affected. You will still receive the bursary payment for the entirety of your degree, no matter what year you are in.
I'm looking to start ARU from next year (19/20); will I still be able to get Books Plus?
No, unfortunately you won't. From the academic year 2019, Books Plus will start to be phased out. However, if you are eligible, you will be able to access bursary payments still, and ARU will also provide you with one core textbook for each of your first year modules.
I have a household income of over £46,000, but my parents can't afford to help me out, and I can't afford my textbooks; what should I do?
That's a very difficult situation, and we're sorry to hear it. Have you looked at getting a part-time job while you're studying? The Employment Bureau have many opportunities to fit around your studies, and we at ARU Students' Union also have some jobs for students for you to check out. If you are experiencing an extremely difficult financial situation, have a look at the university hardship fund.
Do I need to apply for this new bursary?
Not at all. It will be just like Books Plus - eligible students will automatically receive the bursary; no need to apply.
How will I know if I am eligible for the new bursary?
You will need to either have a household income of lower than £25,000 to receive the £400 annual bursary, or a household income of between £25,001 and £42,000 to receive the £200 annual bursary. There will also be an expected level of engagement from students in receipt of the bursary.
What exactly is the 'engagement' required?
As yet, this has not been decided. But it will be a threshold percentage of either use of the engagement dashboard, attendance, or assignment submission. This is up for discussion at the upcoming Student Council.
I really want to voice my opinion about these changes; how can I do that?
We encourage you to attend Student Council to voice your opinion and ask any questions you may have. A member of Student Services will also be present to address your queries and concerns.
From the academic year 2019, Books Plus will start to be phased out. However, if future students are eligible, they will be able to access bursary payments still, and ARU will also provide them with one core textbook for each of their first year modules.
To receive the bursary, there will also be an expected level of engagement from students in receipt of the bursary. The 'engagement' required has not yet been decided, which is where we want you to shape the future of our students.
When should students should get their bursary payments.