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.

1. What are the tuition fee requirements?

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)

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

Read the full guide on tuition fees

2. Can't pay on time? Take action early:

If you're struggling to pay your tuition fees, it's vital to act before the payment deadline. If no plan is agreed and your fees remain unpaid, you may face exclusion from your course.

Step 1: Fill out the Tuition Fee Extension Form 

Step 2: Email the Invoicing Team - invoicing@shu.ac.uk

Include:

1. Your full name and Student ID
2. Why you can’t pay on time
3. A proposed payment plan
4. Supporting evidence (e.g. bank statements, job offer)

You can also call: 0114 225 2478

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

If you are notified of action against you (e.g. pre-exclusion) - and you have previously contacted the Invoicing team but have not received a response - please contact us.

3. How to make a strong request:

When asking for a payment plan:

• Be clear about your situation and what’s changed
• Explain how you’ll be able to pay going forward
• Provide realistic and verifiable evidence

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.

Payment plans aren’t automatic - every case is reviewed individually.

4. 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: invoicing@shu.ac.uk

Contact our team at the Students’ Union Advice Centre for urgent help.

5. 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

6. What the Students’ Union Advice Centre 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 visa, housing or academic concerns

Get in touch for more support and guidance.

7. 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 the Advice Centre