Tuition Fees and Student Loans

Introduction

There is a range of financial help and support available to students entering Higher Education, comprising loans from the government and bursaries from your university or college. Financial support for students is run by Student Finance England.

All eligible, full-time students are able to take out two student loans per academic year of the course:
1. Tuition Fee Loan - to cover the full amount of tuition fees (up to £9,250 for 2019). The amount does not depend on household income. It is paid directly to the university or college.
2. Maintenance Loan – for help with accommodation and other living costs. The maximum amount depends on certain factors, including household income, where you live whilst you’re studying and whether you are in your final year of study. At the moment the maximum is £8,700 if you live away from home and study outside of London and £11,354 if you study and live (away from home) in London, less if you live at home with your parents. The money is paid into your bank account 3 times per academic year at the start of each term. It’s also affected by any help you get through any NHS bursaries.

Use the Government's Student Loan Calculator to find out what you will be eligible for.

Bursaries and scholarships are extra sources of financial help from colleges and universities. They’re paid on top of any student loans or grants you may get. They may be paid in cash or in another form - such as a discount on accommodation. Bursaries and scholarships don’t have to be repaid. There is a lot of money available if you look for it.
These may include:
1. Academic scholarships
2. NHS bursaries for medical and dental courses.
Employer sponsorships and scholarships

You may qualify for extra help on top of student loans and bursaries if you are disabled, or you have a mental health condition or specific learning difficulty. And students with a child or an adult dependant may qualify for an additional grant or allowance.