Student finance
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.
Grants for university students from low-income families
Can you get student finance if you aren’t living with a parent?
Can you get Student Finance twice in the UK?
Do you still get a student loan if you live at home?
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.
Can i get a student loan for a second degree?
When does your student loan get written off?
Explained: How does my parents’ income affect my student loan?
Do you get maintenance loan for foundation year?
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 Amelia! I'm an English Language and Linguistics student studying in Brighton. Outside of my studies, I'm either writing poetry or on spontaneous outings with my friends.
Top tip for students? Say YES to as many things as possible! Even if that means pushing yourself out your comfort zone, you'll be grateful you did it!
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).
Hi I’m Holly, a Politics and International Relations student at the University of Sheffield! In my free time I love going to the gym, seeing my friends, reading and travelling as much as possible.
Top tip for students? Make the most of everything, time at university goes by so quickly!
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 Amy, a University of Salford BA Film Production student. I have a strong passion for creative writing; whether it be scripts or fiction, I can turn almost anything into a story if given the opportunity. Outside of my studies I enjoy reading, taking sky pictures and playing DnD with my friends.
Top tip for students? Don't let any doubt or fear you have take over. You are exactly where you deserve to be. Take university by the horns and make it the experience you want it to be, not what others want it to be.
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!
