1. How and when to apply

Apply early

Applying early means you have the best chance of having your funding confirmed and in place for the start of your course.

This means:

• you'll be able to accurately budget for the academic year ahead knowing exactly what student finance you're getting
• you can let us know if anything changes before your course starts

Apply online

Most students can apply online using their student finance account (opens in a new tab). Undergraduate tuition fee only students need to download a form. You do not need a confirmed place to apply.

Sign in or create a student finance account to start your application. Follow the instructions and answer any questions you're asked. You'll be asked for information about:

• your personal details
• your course information
• your previous study
• your National Insurance and bank or building society details
• your household income, if you're applying for finance based on your household income. Your parents or partner may also be contacted for their income information

You'll be asked to send us proof of identity and any other evidence we need, send this as soon as possible.

You can contact us if you need any help applying online.

If you cannot apply online

You need to download an application form. Make sure you get the right one for you.

If you need a form from an earlier academic year, contact us.

Give accurate and up to date information

You could be asked to prove any information or estimates you give, try to be as accurate as possible and tell us if anything changes as soon as possible. This helps to avoid possible overpayments.

Application deadlines

The final deadline for applying is 9 months after the first day of the academic year. You can still make changes to your loan request up to 1 month before the end of the academic year.