Council tax exemptions

Who can apply for council tax exemption

Find out who qualifies as a full-time student in Bristol City Council's criteria. 

If your tenancy start date is before your course start date, you will not be counted as a full-time student for the period in between those dates. You could be liable to pay council tax for that period. The same applies if your course ends before the last day of your tenancy.

Students living in private sector housing are not exempt from council tax during any gaps between the end of one course and the start of a new course. This includes foundation course students progressing to undergraduate programmes.

Bristol City Council state that students should be liable for council tax during these times. This may also be the same position for other councils.

If you meet council tax exemption requirements, check what date we notified Bristol City Council (‘term-time contact detail’ section).

Living in a University residence

You are automatically exempt from paying council tax and do not need to do anything if you live in a University residence.

Living in private accommodation (or own home) in Bristol

Apply for a council tax exemption on the Bristol City Council website. 

If everyone in your household is a full-time student, you will not have to pay council tax. You still need to apply for an exemption.

If only some people are full-time students, you will have to pay but may be eligible for a discount.

Living in private rented accommodation outside Bristol

If you live outside the Bristol City Council area, you can apply for an exemption with your local authority. You need to provide a letter to prove your student status.

Study abroad students

If you study full-time, you can apply for an exemption. You should state your home university and the University of Bristol when applying so the Council knows which institution to contact with questions.

You need to provide a letter to the Council, confirming details of your programme of study, including start and end dates. Request a bespoke letter from Student Services. 

Postgraduate Research (PGR) students

Postgraduate research students do not need to pay council tax whilst writing your thesis. After  you have submitted your thesis, you are no longer exempt from paying council tax.

Received a bill in error

If you are exempt from paying council tax and receive a bill in error, apply for an exemption on your local authority website.

Change in circumstances

Part-time students

Part-time students are not generally eligible for council tax exemptions.

There may be exceptions if you are on a full-time course and have reduced hours for certain reasons such as ill health. If you have a question about your eligibility contact Student Services.

Suspended studies

If you have suspended your studies for an agreed period, you may still be eligible for a council tax exemption depending on your circumstances during your suspension.

You will need to apply for an exemption to your local authority and provide a letter from the University that includes the details of your course or programme, and suspension agreement.

You can request a bespoke letter from Student Services.