I will be considered a student in overtime. I won't be getting paid but will still be a student. I had no idea about the access to learning fund. That looks like something worth looking into more. Brilliant! Thanks so much x

Thanks for the reply. I have had a look at directgov website but it doesnt appear to have advice for my specific situation - next step will be to talk to someone in an office somewhere. I think in reality a temp job whilst writing up in the UK is my best option. Damn reality!

Hello,

I'm nearing the end of my Phd and have just found about I am pregnant. I am very excited to be having a baby but have no idea how we will cope financially!

I have received a university based studentship for the last 3 years and I have approx. 6 months left to go on the PhD. My studentship ends this month so this means living off savings for 6 months! The baby is due 2 months after I plan to finish. To add to our financial dilemma, my partner has recently gone back to school and receives a university studentship. He is also about to leave the country on fieldwork for 6 months and I was planning to go along too to finish writing up.

My only option seems to be to sack off the PhD, get a temp job and not leave the country with him, but I am desperately seeking alternatives. It seems somewhat unfair that I am not eligible for any sort of maternity pay as technically I have been unemployed/ a student for the last three years (despite the fact I am paid a regular monthly allowance.)

Is this correct? Has anyone else been in this situation and how did you cope?

Thanks x