Student Loans application started for 2025: If you’re planning to study in England in the 2025/26 academic year, now is the time to apply for student finance. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has officially opened applications for full-time undergraduate students, and they are encouraging everyone to apply early to avoid delays. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about applying for student loans and getting ready for university or college.
Why Should You Apply Early for Student Finance?
Each year, SLC helps over 1.5 million students, paying out nearly £22 billion in tuition fees, maintenance loans, and grants. Applying early means you’ll get your money on time, ready for when your course starts. Since the application process can take six to eight weeks, it’s a good idea to start now, even if you haven’t finalized which university or course you’ll attend — you can update your course details later in your online account.
What You Can Apply For?
Students in England can apply for two main types of loans:
- Tuition Fee Loan: Up to £9,535 to cover university or college fees.
- Maintenance Loan: To help with living costs like rent, food, and books.
Additionally, extra financial support may be available for those with children, disabilities, or studying specific courses like teaching, social work, or medicine.
Key Documents You’ll Need to Apply
Before you start your student finance application, make sure you have these documents ready:
- National Insurance Number
- Passport details (to confirm your identity)
- Bank account details (8-digit account number and 6-digit sort code)
- Parent’s email address (if applying based on household income — parents will need to submit their income details)
If you’ve studied before, even if you self-funded, it could affect how much you can borrow, so applying early will help confirm your eligibility.
How to Track Your Student Finance Application
Once you’ve applied, you don’t need to call SLC to check your application status. You can track everything online through your account. Any actions you need to take, like submitting more documents, will be clearly shown in your online portal.
Applications typically take 6-8 weeks, so checking your account regularly is the best way to stay updated.
Tip: You can also make changes to personal details and bank information directly through your online account.
Where to Get Help and Guidance
SLC has created many helpful tools to guide you through the process, including:
- Instructional videos
- Student finance calculator to estimate how much you may get
- FAQs and common questions articles
You can access all these at: https://studentfinance.campaign.gov.uk
Also, follow Student Finance England on:
Special Cases: What If You Are Estranged or Returning to Study?
- Estranged students (no contact with parents for over a year) can apply for finance through a special team trained to handle these situations sensitively. Different types of evidence are required.
- If you are returning to study after a break, use your old online account to apply — don’t create a new one. You can search for your old account if you don’t remember details.
For more on estranged students and other additional help, visit: https://www.gov.uk/student-finance/extra-help
When Will Part-Time and Postgraduate Applications Open?
If you are planning to study part-time or postgraduate, applications will open later in spring 2025. Keep an eye on official updates for the exact dates.
Applying for student finance may feel overwhelming, but with early action, you can avoid last-minute stress. Gather your documents, apply now, and make use of all the online tools and support available. Whether you are starting fresh, returning to studies, or in a unique family situation, there are options and help available to make sure you get the financial support you need for the 2025/26 academic year.
Source: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/apply-now-for-student-finance–2
FAQ
When can I apply for Student Finance for 2025/26?
Applications for full-time undergraduate students in England are now open for the 2025/26 academic year. It is recommended to apply as early as possible, even if you haven’t finalized your university choice.
How long does it take to process a student finance application?
The processing time for student finance applications usually takes 6 to 8 weeks. Students can track their application status online via their Student Finance account.
Do I need a confirmed university place to apply?
No, you don’t need a confirmed university or college place to apply for student finance. You can apply now and update your course details later in your online account.
What documents are required for a student finance application?
You will need your National Insurance Number, passport details, bank account number and sort code, and your parent’s email address if applying based on household income.
Can I apply for extra financial help?
Yes, students with children, disabilities, or those studying specific courses like teaching, medicine, or social work may be eligible for additional support. Check the Gov.uk website for more information.
What if I am estranged from my parents?
If you have had no contact with your parents for over a year, you may apply as an estranged student. There is a dedicated team at SLC to assist with these sensitive cases.
What if I have studied before?
If you have previously studied, even if self-funded, it might affect your eligibility. It is advised to apply early so your entitlement can be confirmed.
