Student finance
Unlock funding for your uni journey with expert advice on student loans, grants, and budgeting to support your studies and lifestyle.
Navigating student finance can feel overwhelming, but it’s an essential step to funding your university journey. From applying for loans to understanding scholarships and grants, there are plenty of ways to ease the financial burden of student life.
Our guide is here to simplify the process, making sure you know what’s available, how to apply, and what you’re eligible for. With the right support and resources, managing your finances as a student doesn’t have to be stressful. Let’s get started on securing the funding you need for your education.
Applying for student finance is a straightforward process if you know where to start. Our step-by-step guidance helps you create your account, provide the necessary documents, and submit your application on time. Make sure you apply early to avoid delays and receive your funding before your course begins.
Understanding your eligibility for student finance is key to making the most of the support available. Factors such as your household income, residency status, and course type all play a role in determining what you qualify for. Our guide breaks down the criteria so you can confidently apply for the funding you’re entitled to.
Can you get student finance if you aren’t living with a parent?
Do you still get a student loan if you live at home?
Student loan eligibility UK, explained!
Grants for university students from low-income families
Student finance is a government-funded scheme that helps cover university tuition fees and living costs. It typically includes a tuition fee loan paid directly to your university and a maintenance loan to support your living expenses, such as rent and food.
Applications for student finance open in early spring, and it’s best to apply as soon as possible to ensure your funding is in place before your course starts. You don’t need a confirmed university place to apply—you can update your details later if needed.
Tuition fee and maintenance loans must be repaid after you graduate and earn above a certain threshold. However, scholarships, grants, and bursaries do not need to be repaid, making them a great way to reduce your financial burden.
Some international students may be eligible for student finance depending on their residency status, course, and university. EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals who meet specific criteria may also qualify, though this has changed since Brexit.
Many universities offer hardship funds or emergency loans to students facing financial challenges. Additionally, charities and local councils may provide extra support, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re struggling.
Got more questions? Check out our Student Finance FAQ Hub for answers written by real students.
When is the first student finance maintenance loan payment?
Do you still get a student loan if you live at home?
Can you get student finance if you aren’t living with a parent?
When does your student loan get written off?
Scholarships and grants can make a huge difference to your financial situation—and best of all, you don’t have to pay them back. These opportunities are available based on academic merit, financial need, or specific talents, so it’s worth exploring what’s out there. Our resources highlight the best scholarships and grants for UK students, giving you the tools to secure extra support.
Student finance isn’t just about loans; it’s about exploring every possible option to ease the cost of university. With careful planning and awareness of what’s available, students can set themselves up for success both academically and financially.
Why Unifresher?
At Unifresher, we understand student life because our guides are written by students, for students. From nightlife and local advice to saving money and finding hidden gems, every article is designed to make your university experience unforgettable.
Featured student writers
Our content is for students, written by students.
Hi I’m Sophie! I’m a creative writing student currently studying in London. I love writing both fiction ranging from short stories to flash fiction and non-fiction consisting mainly of book reviews. In my spare time aside from writing fiction I'm usually head down into a book or two.
Top tip for students? You deserve to be exactly where you are and deserve to want more. Always be willing to take on opportunities that will help you move forward in your career.
Hi I'm Mia, a History & Sociology Student studying in Manchester. My current favourite hobby is taking photos of rave culture at events with my friends in the city, as an EDM music lover myself. I love to post my pictures on my personal blog and fall into wormholes on Pinterest. If I'm not with a camera in hand, I'm probably curled up with a cuppa creating another vision board collage.
Top tip for students? Don't let bad grades in your first year get you down too much. It is such a huge step up from the school system and everyone, even the overachievers (me) need time to adjust. Academic validation isn't everything, but you are capable of anything if you take it one step at a time!
Hi, I'm Rachel! I'm a student at the University of Exeter and I study French and International Relations. When I'm not doing my seminar prep, I'm either reading a good fiction book, listening to a pop culture podcast or on the New York Times website! I enjoy writing the articles and guides I wished I had when I first started university.
Top tip for students? Make use of your professors' office hours as much as you can!
Hi, I'm Aiden! I'm a student at the University of Manchester studying Medicine! I'm passionate about writing and sharing my experiences to try and keep students well-informed. When I'm not in lecture or at the library, you can find me spending time with my friends, hiking on a scenic trail in the Peak District or in my flat's common room writing with a snack in hand.
Top tip for students? Ask why and how, and link new material to things you already know; don't just commit things to memory. A deeper understanding will help you remember, apply, and perform better.
Hi I’m Thea! I'm an undergrad anthropology student at the SOAS. I love all things pop culture, going to concerts, journaling and reading romance books.
Top tip for students? Time management is key - waiting until the deadline to start your assignment will only make your life harder (trust me I would know).
I'm Lola, an English Literature student in Bangor University. I'm passionate about Wesh culture, and poetry.
Top tip for students? Always make sure you find a good study space! It'll help you get your work done easier.
Hiya! I'm Jessica and I'm studying English at Ulster University where I spend most of my days trying out the local coffee shops with a good book in hand. My course allows me to do the thing I love (reading) both inside and outside of the classroom!
Top tip for students? Get involved! This is a fantastic way to make friends as well as elevate your uni experience.
I’m currently an English and Classics student in Birmingham. I’m an avid reader, and I love everything from modern French classics to ancient Greek poetry. In my free time, I also like gaming, art, and listening to music with my trusty noise-cancelling headphones!
Top tip for students? Try as many new things as you can! It may seem intimidating, especially if you’re in a new place or on your own, but stepping outside your comfort zone can lead you to discover things you love.
Hi I'm Emily and I'm a journalism student currently studying at Sheffield Hallam University. I've been in love with writing since I was ten, back when all my stories involved vampires. These days, I love writing about the realities of student life - sharing honest experiences and perspectives to help others. I'm also a big fan of long walks, live music, and Wes Anderson films!
Top tip for students? It's okay to take your time - university might feel weird at first, but it will settle. Go at your own pace and prioritise your mental health.
Hi, I'm Tori! I'm a recent Business & Management graduate from UWE Bristol. I'm an avid concert attendee outside (and alongside...) my studies, with my favourite genre being K-pop! As I take my first steps into a professional career, I'm using writing to bridge the transition between full-time academic writing to a corporate lifestyle.
Top tip for students? Don't get complacent! University might seem to take a step back and seem more chill than college but it's never too early to prepare for things, and there aren't always times when you will be prompted to start, so stay vigilant, and stay ahead. Good luck!
Hi! I’m Bea, and I’m a master’s student, studying History at Durham University. When I’m not studying or writing, you can usually find me listening to music, trying new recipes, or getting involved with theatre at uni. I love all things arts and culture, and will get involved at any opportunity.
Top tip for students? Throw yourself into everything! If it interests you, give it a go - you never know where new opportunities will take you.