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Can I get funding for a Nursing degree if I already have a previous degree?

Hi, I’m hoping to apply for a BSc Adult Nursing degree at Northumbria in 2027. I already have a previous BA (Hons) degree, so I know I wouldn’t normally qualify for undergraduate student finance again.

But I’ve read that certain degrees like Nursing are classed as an exception. I also plan to complete an Access to HE Diploma (Nursing) in 2026 before applying.

Can someone confirm whether I’d be eligible for:
• Tuition fee loan
• Maintenance loan
• NHS Learning Support Fund (if separate)

Also, do I need to apply through my existing SFE account from my first degree, or would I need to create a new one for the exception?

I’ve tried contacting student finance England but can’t get through to them on the number and there’s no section on the website where I can get confirmation of exactly what my problem is. I’m just wanting to know so I know doing the access course isn’t a waste of time.

Reply 1

Drew SLC

Official Rep

Hi there,

As it stands just now the course you have mentioned would be classed as an exception course however as you would not start until 2027 we cannot guarantee that will still be the case and would advise you contact us nearer the time to make sure it is still an exception course. If it was still an exception course you can apply for the Tuition Fee Loan, Maintenance Loan and Supplementary Grants if applicable to you. As it stands you would apply for the Learning Support Fund through the NHS. You would use your originally account to submit an application and would not create another as you only will ever have one account with us.

Thanks, Drew