Getting ready to apply for student finance
Use this page to prepare your application and get ready to start your course.
Before you apply
Find out what you’re entitled to
Check what funding you can get and whether you qualify for extra support. You can use our Student Finance Calculator to estimate your Maintenance Loan amount.
You’ll need to check if you’re eligible for student finance on GOV.UK before applying.
Get your documents ready
You’ll need your National Insurance number when you apply. If you’re applying for a higher Maintenance Loan, you’ll also need your parents’ or partner’s National Insurance number. Let them know in advance so they can find this information.
You don’t need a confirmed place
You can apply even if you haven’t chosen where you’ll be studying yet. You can change your application online any time before your course starts.
If you apply after the deadline, your payment might be delayed. Find out more about getting paid if you apply late.
Stay updated
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X for important updates about your application.
When you apply
Applying online is quick and straightforward. Make sure you:
- Submit your application before the deadline (you need to apply each year)
- Upload any evidence we ask for as soon as possible
- Keep your personal and contact details up to date throughout the process
You can track important dates using our Student schedule.
How student finance works
Understanding who does what will help your application go smoothly.
Student Finance England will:
- Assess your application
- Pay your tuition fees directly to your university or college
- Pay your Maintenance Loan to you
- Contact you if we need any additional information
You need to:
- Apply each year before the deadline
- Provide your parents’ or partner’s details on time (if you apply for a higher Maintenance Loan)
- Update your application before your course starts if anything changes
- Keep your contact details up to date
Your university or college will:
- Confirm to us that you’ve registered and are attending your course
- Tell us if you take a break from or leave your course
- Handle any changes to your application after you’ve started studying
Other things to consider
Student finance covers your tuition fees and contributes towards your living costs, but you should also plan for:
- Study materials such as a laptop, textbooks or stationery
- Living costs in your area (these vary significantly across the UK, so research accommodation and day-to-day expenses where you’ll be studying)
- Social activities (university is also about making friends and enjoying new experiences)
Some courses have higher costs than others. You can find out more information about understanding student living costs on our guide.
Ready to apply?
You’ve got everything you need to complete your application. Log in now and submit your application online.
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