Please see the video and links below for helpful information about the student loan process for those going to university following the changes to repayment terms conditions that came into effect in August 2023.

Student Finance and University – Information for Parents and Carers 

As your child approaches the university application stage, understanding student finance is essential. It ensures higher education remains accessible and manageable, regardless of background.

What Student Finance Covers: 

• Tuition Fee Loan – paid directly to the university
• Maintenance Loan – to assist with living costs
• Additional support – such as grants for students with disabilities

Repayment is income-based and only begins once the graduate earns above a set threshold, making it both fair and affordable. Your guide to Student Finance England - Student Finance England, Student Finance 2026/27 — How Much You'll Get and How to Apply | PocketWise — Your UK Personal Finance Guide

Key Dates & Urgency for Year 13: 

April 2026 - Student Finance England applications for 2026–27 open. Students can apply without a confirmed university place Going to uni in 2026 - Student Finance England, Apply online for student finance - GOV.UK. 

By 15 May 2026 - Deadline for new full-time applicants beginning in September 2026 Student schedule - Student Finance England. 

By 3 June 2026 - Final deadline to reply to any UCAS offers Student schedule - Student Finance England. 

September 2026 onwards - Payment of maintenance loans begins once enrolment is confirmed Student schedule - Student Finance England, Student Finance 2026/27 — How Much You'll Get and How to Apply | PocketWise — Your UK Personal Finance Guide. 

It is vital Year 13 students apply by 15 May 2026 to ensure funds are in place for the September start. Late applications can result in delayed payments and reduced entitlement at the start of term. Student finance: how to apply: When to apply - GOV.UK,Apply online for student finance - GOV.UK 

 What You Can Do 

• Support them in creating a Student Finance account at Apply online for student finance - GOV.UK
• Ensure National Insurance numbers and household income details are ready. Getting ready to apply for student finance - Student Finance England 
• Help them monitor deadlines and submit their application early.
• Encourage them to upload supporting documents promptly and check application status regularly. Getting ready to apply for student finance - Student Finance England

Useful Links

• Apply online: Apply online for student finance - GOV.UK 
• Check deadlines: When to apply – GOV.UK [gov.uk] 
• Estimated funding: Student Finance Calculator guide [studentfin...ign.gov.uk] 

Downloads and Links

 

Understanding your student loan: a guide for English students starting an undergraduate course from 2023 onwards