A brief guide to applying for UK student loans

Welcome to our guide on navigating UK student loans. The Student Loans Company (SLC) is your dependable partner in securing financial support for your child’s education journey. 

Let’s explore how it works and walk you through the process of applying for student finance with your child.

1. Create an account 

2. Complete the application 

3. Submit supporting evidence

Find your appropriate application website depending on where you live in the UK, and register online:  

• England: Student Finance England (SFE) Link opens in a new window 
• Wales: Student Finance Wales (SFW)Link opens in a new window
• Scotland: The Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS)Link opens in a new window
• Northern Ireland: Student Finance Northern Ireland (SFNI)Link opens in a new window 

Ensure your child meets the eligibility criteria based on their university, course, age, nationality, and residency status. 

Identify the best loan options, including tuition fee loans, maintenance loans, and grants, to suit your child’s needs. 

Then you can guide them in accurately filling out the application.

Help your child prepare these essential documents:

• Proof of identity, e.g. passport 
• Residency status
• Household income details (if applicable)
• Offer letter from their university or college

• England: For courses starting in September, applications close in the following May
• Wales: Apply by May for September course starts
• Scotland: Submit by April for September course starts
• Northern Ireland: Apply by April for courses starting in September

• UK government website: General information on student finance - gov.uk/student-financeLink opens in a new window 
• UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA): Support for international student queries - ukcisa.org.ukLink opens in a new window
• National Careers Service: Explore career pathways and get financial advice for your child's future - cxk.orgLink opens in a new window