Council Tax Exemption

You can apply for a council tax exemption if you are a full-time student and you are living on your own or with other students.

To count as a full-time student, your course must:

  • last at least 24 weeks, AND
  • involve at least 21 hours of study per week

If you live in a property where all residents are students, you will all need to provide this proof for a full exemption.

If you are living with a spouse or partner, they will still be liable for council tax, meaning you cannot claim a full exemption, but your student status should allow you to claim a discount.

Qualifying conditions will be verified by the Council and you will be awarded council tax exemption if you meet their conditions.

How to Apply

For information on Council Tax Exemption for students, eligibility, and details on how to apply, you should visit your Local Authority office or their website.

To support your application to the Local Authority, you will need to request information from UWS as confirmation of your student status and eligibility. The easiest way to request this is using the link ‘Council Tax Exemption Request’ on Student Self Service (log in to UWS network to view). Students studying in London can request a council tax exemption letter by emailing londonhub@uws.ac.uk, please ensure your current address is on Banner.

We've created a step-by-step guide on how to apply for your council tax exemption.

Depending on the Local Authority, the information is transferred electronically by UWS at the end of each month, for:

  • Glasgow City Council
  • Renfrewshire Council
  • North Lanarkshire Council
  • South Lanarkshire Council
  • East Ayrshire Council
  • North Ayrshire Council
  • South Ayrshire Council

Out with these listed councils, the request will result in a letter being produced for you. This will be emailed to you within 48 hours on your student email.

Step-by-step guide:

  • Log in to Self Service Banner
  • Check your term time address is correct
  • Select Student > Council Tax Exemption Request
  • Scroll down to the bottom to the line, 'My term time address is within' and select your council from the dropdown list
  • Your details will either be shared direct to the council (the list of councils this applies to is on Banner) or we will email you a letter to provide to the council
  • You must repeat this process every year when you enrol

If you need further advice on Council Tax Exemption, contact the Student Hub or the London Hub at the London Campus.

Last updated: 19/06/2025