Student Finance Support Overview (Academic Year 2025/26)

Here’s an overview of the financial support available to help with tuition fees and living costs.
Tuition Fee Loan

Covers the full cost of your tuition fees, paid directly to your university. This loan is not means-tested, so household income won’t affect your eligibility.

Maintenance Loan

Designed to assist with living expenses such as accommodation, food, and travel. The amount you receive depends on your household income and where you live during your studies.

Maximum amounts for 2025/26:

  • Living with parents: £8,877
  • Living away from home (outside London): £10,544
  • Living away from home (in London): £13,762

Funds are paid directly into your bank account.

Childcare Grant

Supporting full-time students with registered childcare costs, this grant covers up to 85% of eligible expenses.

Maximum weekly support:

  • One child: £199.62
  • Two or more children: £342.24

Payments are made directly to your childcare provider.

Adult Dependants' Grant

Available to students financially supporting an adult dependent, offering up to £3,545 in grant funding.

Parents' Learning Allowance

Provides up to £2,024 to help full-time students with dependent children cover study-related costs.

Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)

Offers tailored support to students with disabilities or health conditions, covering specialist equipment and services. Grants of up to £27,783 are available.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for UK student finance, you must meet the following essential requirements:

  • Residency: You must have lived in the UK for more than 3 years before the start of your course.
  • Immigration Status: You must be one of the following:
    • A British citizen
    • An EU citizen with Settled or Pre-settled Status
    • Hold Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
    • Have refugee status in the UK
  • Course & Institution: You must be studying an eligible course at a recognised university or college approved for student finance.
  • Previous Study: You must not have already studied at the same level as your new course (though some exemptions may apply).
Eligibility Check

Important Additional Information

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on student finance in England, we encourage all students to visit the official government website. While our expert team stays informed about changes in student finance policy and can provide tailored guidance based on your individual circumstances, the government website is the most reliable source for official details. You can access it here: Visit the official Student Finance website If you have questions or need support understanding your eligibility, feel free to contact our finance specialists for personalised assistance.

Hardship Funds

Most universities offer hardship funds or emergency support for students experiencing unexpected financial difficulties. Availability and amounts vary.

Scholarships & Bursaries

Universities offer various scholarships and bursaries based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria. These funds do not require repayment.

Student Carer Funding

If you are an unpaid carer supporting a family member or friend while studying, your university or college may provide additional support such as financial assistance, flexible deadlines, and tailored academic help. This support is offered directly by your institution. Contact your student support team to learn more about what’s available.

Why Choose Financial Aid for Students in the UK?

At On Point Study, we support students in navigating the financial aid process with confidence. Our team specialises in helping you access both Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans, which are designed to reduce the financial pressures of higher education.

By securing the appropriate financial support, you can concentrate on your studies without the added stress of funding your education. We provide step-by-step guidance throughout the application process, ensuring you fully understand your options and apply for the financial aid that best meets your individual needs.

We are committed to helping you make the most of the financial assistance available, so you can focus on achieving your academic goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Student Finance Made Simple

No, you only start repaying when your income is over £25,000 a year. If you earn less, you don’t pay anything.

You repay 9% of what you earn above £25,000. See the chart below for examples:

Annual Income Monthly Income Approx. Monthly Repayment
£25,000 £2,083 £0
£28,000 £2,333 £22
£29,500 £2,458 £33
£31,000 £2,583 £45
£33,000 £2,750 £60

Repayments automatically stop if your income falls below the threshold. You only pay when you earn over £25,000 again.

No. Student loans are not included on credit reports, so they won’t impact your credit rating.

Your loan is written off after 40 years, so you won’t be stuck with it forever.

Yes, you can make voluntary repayments at any time without any penalties.

Tuition Fee Loans are not means-tested, so household income doesn’t affect eligibility. Maintenance Loans depend on household income.

Yes, there are grants like the Childcare Grant, Adult Dependants’ Grant, and Parents’ Learning Allowance to support students with dependents.

Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) provides tailored support like specialist equipment and services.

You can always contact your university’s student finance team or reach out to us for a free assessment.

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