Each of the home nations has its own student funding agency:
- England
- Northern Ireland
- Scotland
- Wales
Loan types
Tuition fees loan - home students
UK and EU undergraduate students can apply for a tuition fee loan to cover the cost of course fees whilst you are at University.
The Students Loan Company pays tuition fees direct to the University.
Tuition fees loan - EU students
If you're starting a course on or after 1 August 2021, you must have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme to get student finance.
If you're coming to the UK from 1 January 2021, you may need to apply for a visa to study here. Irish citizens do not need to apply for a visa or to the EU Settlement Scheme.
The Student Loans Company pays tuition fees direct to the University.
Maintenance loan
Subject to satisfying the eligibility criteria, most UK students can also apply for a maintenance loan. This is intended to help with basic living and study costs such as rent, food, travel and books.
For most students, the amount of maintenance loan a student is entitled to borrow is calculated by reference to household income.
The Student Loans Company pays a maintenance loan direct to the student in three instalments – at the start of each of the University’s three terms.
You can use the online student finance calculator to get an idea of how much money you may receive.
Budgeting
To help you get a better understanding of your spending and how to manage it more effectively, download a student budgeting spreadsheet.
Download spreadsheet
Getting advice
If you think you might be entitled to any welfare benefits or have a problem with your existing benefit entitlement, you can book an appointment with one of our advisers.
Book appointment
Alternatively, email your enquiry to advice@thesu.org.uk.