Studying without the support of your family may present challenges, so many universities and colleges provide extra support for estranged students. This can include year-round accommodation, financial help, or even support to manage your health and wellbeing.
When you give this information, you're letting the university know about your circumstances in case you need additional support during your studies. They may get in touch with more information about the support available and to discuss whether you want to access it. Remember that any support provided is designed to ensure that you have a fair chance to succeed in your studies. This blog article explains why sharing your circumstances in your UCAS application is a positive step.
Knowing about your circumstances may also help admissions staff to take your achievements into account and gain a better understanding of these achievements and potential in context. It won't reflect negatively on your application or academic ability, but instead will enable them to form a more complete picture of you as an individual and identify applicants who have the potential to succeed – even if their personal circumstances have affected their attainment (e.g. exam grades).
We recommend you contact student services at the university or college before you apply to check what support they can offer you.