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THE Scottish Government has set aside £5million to help university and college students who are struggling as a result of the coronavirus crisis.

Students will be able to apply to their institutions to access the money, which is being made available straight away.

Discretionary payments can be made to cover a range of hardships related to Covid-19.

Students who have received bursaries and are struggling to repay debt also have the option to delay payments.

Richard Lochhead, Minister for Further and Higher Education, said: "We are ensuring students should have access to emergency support should they be facing financial hardship as a result of Covid-19 or the social distancing and isolation measures that have been introduced.

"All bursaries, grants and loans are continuing to be paid as planned but the current unprecedented situation has resulted in increased hardship.

"That is why we are making extra funding immediately available for students most in need, to help alleviate concerns around accommodation costs, mental health issues, general living costs and wellbeing.

"Institutions will be provided with specific guidance on the discretionary funding related to Covid-19, while students can access the latest information on the Student Information Scotland website."