Many students are exempt from paying Council Tax, but whether an exemption applies depends on who lives in the property and their circumstances.

We will explain when students are exempt, when discounts apply, and what you need to do.

Who is classed as a student

For Council Tax purposes, a student is usually someone who is:

• enrolled on a full‑time course of education, and
• attending a recognised college or university, and
• studying for at least 1 academic year, with
• at least 21 hours of study per week during term time

Students under 20 on qualifying courses may also be counted as students.

When a property is fully exempt

A property is usually fully exempt from Council Tax if:

• all the adults living there are full‑time students

In this case, no Council Tax bill is payable while the exemption applies.

Mixed households (students and non‑students)

If students live with one or more adults who are not students, the property is not fully exempt.

However:

• students are not counted as adults for Council Tax
• the non‑student resident may qualify for a single person discount (25%)

Students who live alone

If you are the only adult living in the property and you are a full‑time student, the property is usually exempt from Council Tax.

You must still apply for the exemption so we can update your account.

When student exemption does not apply

You may not be exempt if:

• you are a part‑time student
• your course does not meet the qualifying criteria
• your student status has ended

You must tell us if your course ends, you leave your course, or your circumstances change.

Evidence you may need to provide

We usually need a student certificate from your college or university confirming:

• your course title
• course start and end dates
• that the course is full‑time

Many institutions provide certificates electronically.

How to apply

You can apply for a student exemption or discount by telling us about a change in circumstances.

You will need:

• your Council Tax account number
• details of your course
• your student certificate (if available)

Apply for a student Council Tax exemption

Tell us if your circumstances change

You must tell us if:

• you finish or leave your course
• someone moves in or out of the property
• your student status changes

Failing to report changes could result in a backdated Council Tax bill.

Report a change in circumstances

Need help?

If you’re unsure whether your course qualifies as full‑time for Council Tax purposes, contact the Council Tax team and we can advise before you apply.