STUDENTS may be entitled to extra holiday spending money in the form of a TV licence refund.

Since April, TV Licensing has changed the way refunds are calculated to make it easier for customers to apply, so more students could benefit from a refund - as they can now claim for any full months left on their licence.

If students bought their licence last October and moved out in May, they could receive a refund worth around £48.50.

In order to qualify, students need to be leaving their halls or rented accommodation and be moving to a licensed address.

Applying can be done online or over the phone; students need to have their TV licence details to hand and evidence to show their licence is no longer needed, such as a copy of the end of their tenancy agreement.

Caroline McCourt, spokesperson for TV Licensing, said: “Applying for a refund is quick and easy and we encourage all students who are eligible to take advantage of it.

"It is important students buy a TV Licence at the earliest opportunity when starting university to take advantage of the flexible payment options available to them and avoid a fine of up to £1,000."

A licence is needed for watching and recording live television and watching or downloading BBC programmes on iPlayer. This applies whether using a TV set, laptop, mobile or any other equipment.

Izzy Lenga, NUS vice president (welfare), said: “A TV licence is valid for a whole year, so if students purchase a licence in October they can apply for a refund when the academic year has finished and they are no longer living in student accommodation. Many could end up saving some much-needed cash as they go into the summer break.”

To arrange a refund, visit tvlicensing.co.uk/studentinfo, or call TV Licensing on 0300 790 6113.