How late can you apply for student finance.

I know everyone says to apply now. But I’m not sure I want to go uni yet. I’m currently on a gap year since July 2023, and have a few things that I’m doing that I’m enjoying, but if my current goal doesn’t get achieved I’d like to go to uni. But I’m worried if I apply for student finance in August that I’ll be accepted too late. If I get accepted late what happens?? Is it even possible to apply this late thanks.

I know everyone says to apply now. But I’m not sure I want to go uni yet. I’m currently on a gap year since July 2023, and have a few things that I’m doing that I’m enjoying, but if my current goal doesn’t get achieved I’d like to go to uni. But I’m worried if I apply for student finance in August that I’ll be accepted too late. If I get accepted late what happens?? Is it even possible to apply this late thanks.

It depends on whether you have the savings to fund yourself through the first weeks-months without a maintenance loan.
If you don’t then apply now so you’re guaranteed payment for the start of your course.
If you choose not to go then not a penny will be paid and it’s easy to cancel (with no impact if you reapply later on).
Generally: unless you’re rich it’s better to apply before the end of April if there’s any possibility that you’re going to university this year.