Student finance

I am applying for university 2026, I want to get some insight into how students finance/loans work and how to apply/when.

Reply 1

normaw

Volunteer Section Leader, Clearing and Applications Advisor

Original post

by SadieMossHeywood

I am applying for university 2026, I want to get some insight into how students finance/loans work and how to apply/when.

Student finance applications for Sep/Oct 2026 entry are expected to open early March. The following links will give you advice on applying and how student finance works:

https://studentfinance.campaign.gov.uk/going-to-uni-2026/

https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/students/student-loans-england-plan-5/

Reply 2

LJMUStudentReps

Official Rep

Hi,

Student finance opens towards the end of March, it is at this point you can start your application process. It's best to get your student finance application submitted as soon as possible to ensure you receive the correct funding and receive it on time.

If you are granted student finance, you will receive the amount in 3 instalments during each year of your studies. This is typically in October, January and April. The payments will be paid directly into your bank account.

I hope this helps😊

Olivia
LJMU Ambassador

Reply 3

University of Bath

Official Rep

Hi there 😊
I can help you break down how student finance works and what all the terminology means.

You can apply for 2 loans - tuition fee loan and the maintenance loan.
The tuition loan everyone is eligible regardless of household income. This gets paid directly to the university so you won't get access to this sum.
The maintenance loan is to help with living costs - food, rent, bills etc.
This amount gets paid in three instalments through the year - usually at the start of semester 1, January time and then around April time.
The amount of maintenance loan can differ and vary from person to person - living at home, living in London, household income.
You can apply around February/ March time and you have to reapply every year you're at university. You just create an account of SFE (assuming you're from England) and you just have a submit a few documents. It's a straightforward process in general and the website guides you very nicely.
Then you don't start repaying your loans until you graduate and earn above the threshold. However, most people don't repay the full amount and after x amount of years depending on which loan plan you're on, the amount gets wiped.

I hope this helps!
University of Bath