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Student Finance

The Cost of Higher Education

Most higher education courses charge a tuition fee, which is money that the university or college use to provide teaching, facilities and student support. The maximum fee an institution can charge is currently £9250 per annum, although this figure is fixed until 2024/2025 it could rise in subsequent years – course fees are dependent on the course type and institution, so it is important to check with each course you are considering.

Higher Apprenticeships and Degree Apprenticeships do not charge a tuition fee as this is met by the government and the training provider. Apprenticeships also pay students a wage while they are completing the course.

Student Finance

There is support available to help with the costs associated with studying. We have broken down what you may be entitled to below: 

Tuition Fee LoanThis is a loan to cover the cost of tuition and it is paid directly to the university or college you will be studying at. All students are eligible for the full amount of loan to cover their tuition fees should they chose to accept, meaning there is no requirement to pay any money upfront. 
Maintenance LoanThis loan is to cover the living costs associated with studying. This is a means tested loan, therefore the amount you receive will depend on your household income and factors such as whether you live at home or move out to live independently. 
Additional SupportIf you meet certain criteria, you can apply for additional financial support: Disabled Students Allowance  Support for students with caring responsibilities or financial dependents Scholarships or bursaries directly from universities and colleges (ask them for details of their support) 

Applying to Student Finance

You need to apply for student finance by completing an online form which will ask you for details of what you will study, where you will study, your household income, and details of anyone who depends on you financially. 

If you live with your parent/carer then they will need to provide details of their income, so that Student Finance England can work out how much financial support you are eligible for.

Repayment

The thought of repaying money can be daunting, but it is important to understand how the repayment system works. Repayments are based on what you earn, not what you owe. 

For courses starting in September 2023 onwards

For example, if someone earns £26,000 per year, they will make student loan repayments at a rate of 9% of the £1,000 they earn above the threshold. This means they will repay £90 per year, or £7.50 per month. 

Scholarship Opportunities

ProviderEligibility Criteria
SANTANDER SCHOLARSHIP– Graduating in 2025
– Full-time Undergraduate
– Studying at a Santander Partner University

Full details are here.
UNITE SCHOLARSHIP– 25 or under
– Care experienced
– Starting/studying first undergraduate degree
– Studying at a Unite partner university

Full details are here.
Please note, there are many more opportunities available, we display a subsection here but the list is NOT exhaustive.