Maintenance Loan Without Tuition Fee Loan – Is This Possible for 1st Year 2026/27?

Hello,

My son has been accepted to start university in the 2026/2027 academic year (first year undergraduate). He is registered disabled, but he does not require any additional support, adjustments, or disability-related funding as he manages independently and does not need anything beyond what would be considered typical provision.

We are in the fortunate position of being able to cover his tuition fees privately, so he does not need a tuition fee loan. However, he will require a maintenance loan to help with travel and general living costs.

Is it possible to apply for a maintenance loan without also taking out a tuition fee loan?

Additionally, are there any other funding routes we should be looking into for example bursaries, grants, travel support schemes, or any disability-related provisions that may still be available even if he does not need specific adjustments?

Thank you in advance for any guidance.

Reply 1

Stephen SLC

Official Rep

Hi there, yes, students can apply for just the maintenance loan on the application if this is all they require.
The undergraduate applications for 26/27 academic year are due to open 23/03/26.
Further information can be found here: https://studentfinance.campaign.gov.uk/going-to-uni-2026/

Bursaries are offered though the universities themselves, but usually require for the students application to be means tested as they use this information to assess their own 'in-house' bursaries. Students can apply to Student Finance England for additional support through the Disabled Student's Allowance for assistance with travel (if applicable) but universities do also offer additional discretionary support as well if this is a preferred option. Stephen