If you're an international student struggling to pay your tuition fees, this guide outlines what you need to know and where to get help.

Your tuition fees are split into instalments. The exact split and payment dates are shown in your offer letter and on your invoice.

Invoices will be issued by the University’s Finance team, outlining how much you owe and your payment deadline.

At Sheffield Hallam University, international students usually need to:

• Pay 50% of tuition fees before enrolling
• Pay the remaining 50% later in the year:
  • February (for September course starts)
  • September (for January course starts)

For more information on tuition fees, deadline dates, and how to pay, view the University's tuition fees guide.

Unforeseen financial emergencies

If exceptional circumstances mean you can no longer access your funds or pay tuition on time, contact an International Experience Team (IET) Adviser via Hallam Help as soon as possible - you do not need to wait for a payment request. An IET Adviser can help you explore options, prepare your case and evidence, and support you with arranging a payment plan.

View the University's tuition fees guide for step-by-step guidance, including how to make a strong payment plan request and what happens if you are facing exclusion.

If you'd like us to review your payment plan emails and help you understand your options, contact us at SU Advice for guidance. Note: SU Advice cannot fund your fees or provide visa advice.

Setting up or adjusting a payment plan

If you're struggling to pay your tuition fees, it's important you take action early and before the payment deadline. If your fees remain unpaid without an agreed plan in place, you may face exclusion from your course.

Request a payment plan or extension

You can request a payment plan or tuition fee extension through the University's Invoicing team.

Payment plans are not automatic. Every case is reviewed individually, so a clear and realistic plan with evidence gives you the best chance of your plan being approved.

1. Complete the Tuition Fee Extension Form
2. Email your completed form to the Invoicing team at invoicing@shu.ac.uk, including the following details:

• • Your full name
  • Your Student ID
  • The reason you can’t pay on time
  • A proposed payment plan
    • Be clear about your situation and what’s changed
    • Explain how you’ll be able to pay going forward
    • Provide realistic and verifiableevidence

      • Example: If your family funding suddenly stopped but you now have a confirmed job starting next month, that makes your case stronger than vague plans for future part-time work.

  • Supporting evidence (e.g. bank statements, job offer)

Due to high demand, delays are possible - always send both the form and an email.

Need extra support? Call the Invoicing team on 0114 225 2478.

If you're notified of action against you (e.g. pre-exclusion) and you've previously contacted the Invoicing team but have not received a response, please contact us at SU Advice.

If you’re facing exclusion

If you’ve been told you might be excluded and:

• You’ve already submitted a payment request
• You haven’t had a response

Email the invoicing team again at invoicing@shu.ac.uk

Contact us at SU Advice for urgent help.

Already have a payment plan but still struggling

If your situation changes and you can’t keep up with an agreed plan:

• Reply to the last email from the invoicing team
• Ask to renegotiate your plan
• Provide new supporting evidence

If a payment plan isn’t an option

If paying just isn’t possible, you may need to consider:

1. Taking a break from study

• Gives you time to get finances sorted
• Speak to your Academic Adviser/Student Support Adviser and International Experience Team

2. Withdrawing from your course

• You’ll only be charged for the weeks you’ve studied
• May affect your visa and accommodation
• Speak to a support adviser before making a decision

What SU Advice can help with

While we can’t fund tuition fees, we can help you:

• Understand your options
• Draft and review payment plan emails
• Review supporting evidence
• Discuss funding, housing or academic concerns

Get in touch for more support and guidance.

Financial support - what’s available?

Not available for tuition fee debt:

• Emergency funds
• Most scholarships (these must be arranged before enrolment)

Most students fund tuition via:

• Family or friend support
• Loans from their home country
• Employer sponsorship

External help: UKCISA: Funding for International Students

If you’re experiencing sudden financial hardship unrelated to tuition, you may be eligible for the International Emergency Fund.

We’re here for you

We know tuition fee problems can be stressful - especially while living abroad. Whether it’s helping you put together a payment plan or understanding what options are available, we’re here for you.

Contact SU Advice