Pilot Rental Deposit Loan Scheme

The University is piloting an interest-free rental deposit loan scheme to support new staff with the upfront costs of securing accommodation when relocating to the Oxford area. 

Rental deposits and advance rent in Oxford can be significant, often exceeding £4,000. This scheme provides short-term financial support to help with these costs. 

Loans are available up to £3,000 and are repaid over 12 months through salary deductions. The scheme is being delivered as a pilot and is subject to available funding. 

Eligibility and use 

You may apply if you have accepted a salaried job offer with the University and are relocating within 25 miles of Oxford.  You must currently live further than 25 miles away from Oxford.  

Distance from Oxford is calculated using the location of the Bodleian Library (Broad Street, OX1 3BG). 

The loan is intended to support your own rental deposit and cannot be used for other purposes.  You will be required to provide evidence of a tenancy agreement and that the deposit is stored in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme.  

How it works

Once you sign your contract and intend to move to the Oxford area, you will simply need to download the application from this website and submit it to your Departmental HR contact. Approved applications are sent to Payroll, who will arrange payment to be made to you. 

Repayments are taken automatically from your salary in equal monthly instalments up to 12 months. If you leave employment with the University before the loan is repaid, the outstanding balance must be repaid in full. 

Detailed process guidance

Departmental and HR colleagues can see explanatory guidance, which clarifies how to manage the application and approval process for these loans from application through to repayment. 

Applicant Considerations

Before applying for the loan, you should: 

• check that you meet the eligibility criteria,
• understand the repayment commitment,
• consider your personal financial circumstances.