Students moving back home for the summer holidays could get nearly £40 cashback for the unused months on their television licence.

Those who bought an annual TV licence in September or October last year for their university property, but are now moving back home for the summer, could be eligible for a refund on the final quarter of their licence.

You need a TV licence to watch or record programmes at the same time as they are shown on TV, whether you are watching on a TV set or other devices including laptops.

A colour TV licence bought in October 2010 cost £145.50 so the refund for those with the last quarter left would be roughly £37.

Suzanne Stevenson, from the official TV Licensing body, says: "We know for students managing tight budgets every little helps, so we want to ensure those who are eligible know to claim the TV Licence refund.

"It could help by easing the burden of end-of-term household bills, or just by putting a little cash back in pockets."  

Students wanting to find out whether or not they're eligible for a refund need to complete an online form on the TV Licensing website or they can phone the company on 0300 790 6090.