Student Finance
Build your own dreams
Or someone else will hire you to build theirs. Here is how you can take action – starting today.
Build your own dreams
Or someone else will hire you to build theirs. Here is how you can take action – starting today.
Financial Support
One of the biggest challenges students face when starting their university journey is figuring out how to fund their chosen course.
Whether you're returning to study, balancing work and family, or simply planning your next step, understanding your financial options is essential, and we're here to help.
One of the free services we offer is financial support, where we guide you through the student finance process, helping you to apply for Tuition Fee and Maintenance Loans so you're financially prepared and ready for university.
When you apply through SK Connections, you’ll gain access to our Student Members Website, which also provides more information on additional financial support you may be entitled to, including assistance for those working, supporting dependents, or studying while managing other commitments. as well as tools, resources, and information to support you during your application and throughout your university journey.
To get you started, here is a short overview of the type of support you might be entitled to.
Types of University Finance
Tuition Fee Loan
What it is:
A loan that covers the full cost of your course fees, paid directly to your university or college.
✅ You don’t need to pay anything upfront
✅ You only repay it once you’re earning over the threshold
✅ Available to most UK and eligible EU students
💡 2025 update: Universities in England can charge up to £9,250 per year – but the Tuition Fee Loan covers this in full.
What it is:
Money paid directly to you, to help with things like rent, food, travel, and other day-to-day costs.
✅ How much you get depends on your household income and where you live/study
✅ Paid in 3 instalments over the academic year
✅ Mature students, students with children, or those living independently may receive more
💡 Tip: You can use a Student Finance Calculator online to check how much you might get.
If you’re a parent, carer, or have adult dependants, there’s extra help available:
Parents’ Learning Allowance – For students with children
Childcare Grant – Covers up to 85% of childcare costs
Adult Dependants’ Grant – For those supporting another adult financially
✅ These don’t usually have to be repaid
✅ Awarded based on household income and circumstances
Additional Support
(for students with dependents)
Maintenance Loan (Living Costs)
Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA)
What it is:
Support for students with a disability, mental health condition, or specific learning difficulty (like dyslexia or ADHD).
✅ Helps cover costs for equipment, support workers, or study-related travel
✅ Doesn’t need to be repaid
✅ Not based on income
💡 Mature students returning to education with long-term conditions may be eligible – and this can make a big difference.
Grants, Bursaries & Scholarships
Mature students often qualify for extra help and flexibility:
Higher maintenance loan if living independently
Special access or foundation year funding
Some universities offer dedicated bursaries for mature learners
Extra help with childcare, career transitions, or part-time study options
Support with study skills and confidence-building for returning to education
Support for Mature Students (aged 21+)
These are extra sources of free money that don’t have to be repaid:
University Bursaries – Offered based on income, personal circumstances, or academic achievement
Charitable Grants – From trusts or organisations supporting mature learners, low-income families, or specific career paths
Scholarships – May be linked to academic performance, background, or chosen course
💡 We can help you search for bursaries that apply to your unique situation.
Frequently asked questions
❓ Can part-time students get financial help?
Yes. If your course is at least 25% of a full-time course, you may be eligible for both Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans. The amount is based on your course intensity.
💡 Ideal for mature students balancing study with work or family life.
❓ How and when do I repay my student loan?
You repay only once you earn over £25,000/year
Repayments are automatically deducted from your wages, like tax
Any unpaid loan is written off after 40 years (or earlier, depending on the plan)
No upfront repayment required when applying
💡 Student loans don’t affect your credit score and work more like a graduate tax.
❓ Can I still apply if I’ve studied before?
It depends. Generally, student finance is only available for your first degree. However, there are exceptions, especially for courses in teaching, nursing, or where you’re topping up qualifications (e.g. HND to full degree).
❓ When should I apply for student finance?
It is best to apply early, ideally by spring, before your course begins. Applications usually open in February or March. You don’t need a confirmed university place to apply. However, SK Connections and our education partners will assist you with the application process when it is time to apply.
❓ What if my circumstances change during the year?
If your household income, course, or personal situation changes (e.g. you move home, have a child, or stop studying), you should update Student Finance as soon as possible. This may affect how much you receive.
❓ What documents do I need to apply?
You’ll usually need:
Proof of identity (e.g. passport)
National Insurance number
Bank account details
Household income information (if applying for a means-tested loan)
Get in Touch
Reach out to us for assistance with university applications and student finance support tailored to you.