My Process with Student Finance – Any Advice?

Hi everyone,

I wanted to share my experience so far with student finance and see if anyone has advice on what steps to take next.

I’m currently in Year 13, planning to go to university next year, and I’ve been in the process of applying for student finance. Initially, I felt confident, but the journey hasn’t been as straightforward as I hoped. I’ve hit a few roadblocks, due to the fact that I don't feel comfortable taking out a student loan because of the interest it incurs and I’m wondering if any current/previous muslim students can relate or offer some advice.

Here’s where I am:

Financial Assessment: I’m in a unique situation with some family financial circumstances that I’m not sure how to present. I’ve considered seeking advice, but I’m not sure where to go for help, some people have said I may qualify for darurah but I feel like is it really darurah or just a justification for something I should avoid?

Scholarships & Bursaries: I’ve looked into scholarships and bursaries but haven’t had much luck yet. Some opportunities have passed their deadlines, and others seem out of reach for me. I’d love to hear how others have found funding options outside of the main student loan.

Gap Year Consideration: I’ve also been considering taking a gap year due to some financial uncertainties. I’m planning to work multiple jobs to save for university, but I’m wondering if anyone has gone down this path and can share their experience.

Would love to hear from anyone who’s been through the student finance process or anyone with tips for making it smoother. Any insight or support would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance!

Reply 1

Edge51

A shariah compliant student loan will be introduced by Student finance England but I think it is from Sept 2026,
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/alternative-student-finance/alternative-student-finance

Reply 2

myk._

Original post

by Edge51

Thanks, I already looked into this, they've been saying this since 2013 though :/

(edited 1 year ago)

Reply 3

username6457361

Original post

by myk._

Hi everyone,
I wanted to share my experience so far with student finance and see if anyone has advice on what steps to take next.
I’m currently in Year 13, planning to go to university next year, and I’ve been in the process of applying for student finance. Initially, I felt confident, but the journey hasn’t been as straightforward as I hoped. I’ve hit a few roadblocks, due to the fact that I don't feel comfortable taking out a student loan because of the interest it incurs and I’m wondering if any current/previous muslim students can relate or offer some advice.
Here’s where I am:
Financial Assessment: I’m in a unique situation with some family financial circumstances that I’m not sure how to present. I’ve considered seeking advice, but I’m not sure where to go for help, some people have said I may qualify for darurah but I feel like is it really darurah or just a justification for something I should avoid?
Scholarships & Bursaries: I’ve looked into scholarships and bursaries but haven’t had much luck yet. Some opportunities have passed their deadlines, and others seem out of reach for me. I’d love to hear how others have found funding options outside of the main student loan.
Gap Year Consideration: I’ve also been considering taking a gap year due to some financial uncertainties. I’m planning to work multiple jobs to save for university, but I’m wondering if anyone has gone down this path and can share their experience.
Would love to hear from anyone who’s been through the student finance process or anyone with tips for making it smoother. Any insight or support would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks in advance!

salam! i'm in year 13 too and i'm also looking at my options because of the interest on the loan. can i dm you