Do You Pay Council Tax as a Student?

Council tax is a common source of confusion for new university students. Many wonder whether they need to pay it at all. In most cases, full-time students are exempt, meaning you won’t receive a council tax bill. However, there are some exceptions, particularly if you live in a household with non-students or in certain types of accommodation.

This guide explains everything you need to know about council tax and student accommodation, including exemptions, how to apply, and whether international students need to pay.

When Do Students Need to Pay Council Tax?

If you’re enrolled in a full-time university or college course, you usually do not need to pay council tax as a student. To qualify:

• Your course lasts at least one year.

• You study at least 21 hours a week.

• You live in accommodation that counts as a student household.

In these cases, the property is considered “exempt” from council tax.

However, if you are a part-time student or live with non-students, you may still need to contribute.

Council Tax for Student Accommodation

Purpose-built student accommodation and halls of residence are automatically exempt from council tax. Students living in:

• University halls of residence

• Private student halls

• Shared student houses with only full-time students

…do not need to pay council tax.

If you live in a student house but one or more tenants are not full-time students, the household may still be charged. In this case, the non-student tenants are usually responsible for paying.

Council Tax for Students in Rented Accommodation

Many students rent houses or flats off-campus. If all the tenants are full-time students, the property is exempt. But if the property includes a working professional or part-time student, the household will need to pay. If you’re unsure what other bills apply in a student house, check out our guide to student house bills for a full breakdown.

Tip: Always request a council tax exemption certificate from your university to show your local council.

Do International Students Pay Council Tax?

For international students unsure about whether or not you pay council tax, the rules are the same as for UK students: if you are studying full-time, you are exempt. But if you’re part-time or live with non-students, you may be liable. Visa status does not change this.

Do I Need to Pay Council Tax if I’m a Student Living With Non-Students?

If you live with someone who isn’t a student, for example, a partner or a friend who works, the property may be charged council tax.

In most cases:

• The non-student tenant pays the council tax.

• As a student, you should be excluded from the bill.

That said, councils sometimes ask for proof of student status, so keep your exemption certificate ready.

How to Claim Council Tax Exemption as a Student

1. Request a council tax exemption certificate from your university or college.

2. Send it to your local council.

3. If your whole household is full-time students, the property will be marked as exempt.

If you receive a council tax bill in error, contact your council immediately with proof of your student status. While you’re sorting out exemptions, it’s also worth knowing about other student obligations like whether you need a TV licence at university.

Key Takeaways

• Do students need to pay council tax? No, full-time students are exempt.

• Council tax student accommodation: halls and shared student houses with only students are automatically exempt.

• Do international students pay council tax? No, if they are full-time.

• Council tax student house: mixed households may still be charged, with non-students responsible for the bill.

Final Word

If you’ve ever wondered if you pay council tax as a student, the answer is usually no, provided you’re a full-time student living with other students. Always keep your exemption certificate handy, and check your council’s website if you’re unsure. You can also browse our Student blog for more guides on navigating all aspects of student life.