Are Students Exempt from Council Tax?

Full-time students are usually exempt from Council Tax. Learn who qualifies, what happens in shared housing, and how to apply for an exemption.

Council Tax is a local tax charged on residential properties in the UK to fund public services like waste collection, education, and emergency services. While full-time students are usually exempt, there are exceptions and special circumstances that could mean some students still need to pay.

This guide covers who qualifies for student exemption, how shared housing affects Council Tax, what happens if you take time off, and how to apply for an exemption.

What Qualifies as a Full-Time Student for Council Tax Exemption?

To be exempt from Council Tax, you must be enrolled in a full-time course that meets the following criteria:

  • Lasts at least one year.

  • Requires at least 21 hours of study per week.

For students under 20 years old, the course must:

  • Last at least three months.

  • Require at least 12 hours of study per week.

If your course meets these requirements, you are classed as a full-time student for Council Tax purposes and can apply for an exemption.

What Happens if Someone You Live With Isn’t a Full-Time Student?

If you live with someone who is not a full-time student, your household may not be completely exempt from Council Tax.

  • The non-student tenant is responsible for paying Council Tax.

  • However, if you (the student) are the only other resident, the non-student may qualify for a 25% single-person discount.

  • If there are multiple non-students, the property will be fully liable for Council Tax, and the non-student tenants must pay.

If you receive a Council Tax bill in this situation, check if your housemates qualify for any discounts or reductions.

What If the Student Lives in an HMO?

A House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) is a property rented by several unrelated people on individual tenancy agreements.

  • In an HMO, the landlord is responsible for paying Council Tax—not the tenants.

  • If your landlord tries to charge you for Council Tax, check your tenancy agreement, as this is usually included in the rent.

What to Do If Your Home is Exempt but You Still Get a Council Tax Bill

Even if your household should be exempt, you may still receive a Council Tax bill. If this happens:

  1. Check if all tenants are full-time students.

  2. Ensure your university has registered your student status with the council.

  3. Apply for an exemption (see below).

  4. If the council refuses to update your exemption, appeal the decision with supporting evidence (e.g., student certificates).

What Happens if You Take Time Off from Your Course?

If you take temporary leave from your studies but remain enrolled and plan to return, you may still be considered a full-time student and remain exempt from Council Tax.

However, if you:

  • Suspend your studies indefinitely, or

  • Leave your course completely,

then you lose your exemption, and you may become liable for Council Tax.

What Happens if You Are Between Courses?

If you have finished one course and are waiting to start another, you may have to pay Council Tax during the break.

  • Example: If you complete an undergraduate degree in June but don’t start a master’s until September, you could be liable for Council Tax between June and September.

  • If you stay in student halls, your accommodation may still be exempt, but if you rent privately, you may need to pay.

Always check with your local council to see if you qualify for any discounts during this period.

Do Postgraduate Students Pay Council Tax?

Postgraduate students can be exempt if their course meets the full-time student criteria. However:

  • If you are writing up your thesis but not attending classes, councils may not consider you a full-time student.

  • Some universities provide letters confirming full-time study for PhD students—check with your university.

  • If your status is unclear, contact your local council to confirm whether you qualify for an exemption.

What to Do If You Can’t Pay Your Council Tax Bill

If you do not qualify for an exemption and cannot afford your Council Tax bill, consider the following options:

  1. Apply for a Council Tax Reduction – Low-income individuals may get a discount or full exemption based on their financial situation.

  2. Set Up a Payment Plan – Contact your local council to arrange smaller monthly payments.

  3. Check for Other Discounts – Some councils offer extra discounts for students on benefits or in financial hardship.

How to Apply for a Student Council Tax Exemption

To apply for Council Tax exemption as a student, follow these steps:

1. Get a Student Certificate

  • Request a student certificate from your university or college.

  • This document confirms your full-time student status.

2. Submit Your Application

  • Go to your local council’s website (Find your council).

  • Submit the student certificate and complete the Council Tax exemption form.

3. Check Your Exemption Status

  • Your local council should update your exemption and stop sending bills.

  • If you continue receiving bills, contact your council to confirm your status.

Final Thoughts

Most full-time students in the UK are exempt from paying Council Tax, but exceptions apply based on your living situation. If you live with non-students, take time off, or transition between courses, you may become liable for Council Tax.

To ensure you don’t overpay, always check your exemption status, apply for discounts if needed, and contact your local council for clarification.