Free help understanding student finance & training funding
Understanding student finance, repayments and the funding options for education and training isn't always straightforward. We explain it all in plain English so you know what support you may be entitled to.
Book a free 15-minute chatThe explaining is free. If you'd like hands-on help completing an application, that's our paid service.
How we can help
- How tuition fee and maintenance loans work
- Checking eligibility for student finance
- Understanding repayments and thresholds
- Grants, bursaries and hardship funds
- Old Professional & Career Development Loans
- What to do if you're struggling with repayments
The details, in plain English
Tuition fee loans
A tuition fee loan covers your course fees and is paid directly to your university or college. You don't receive this money yourself.
Maintenance loans
A maintenance loan helps with living costs — rent, food, bills and travel. The amount depends on your household income and circumstances.
When you repay
Repayments usually begin only after you leave your course and your income rises above the relevant threshold, and stop automatically if your income falls below it.
Career Development Loans
The Professional & Career Development Loan scheme is closed to new applicants. Existing loans must still be repaid under their original terms, directly to the bank that provided them.
What to gather
Strong, organised evidence makes everything easier. Where possible, it helps to have:
- Your student finance account details
- Award or entitlement letters
- Payslips (for repayment queries)
- Course and university details
- Household income information
What we don't do
We explain publicly available information in plain English. We don't give regulated financial advice.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to repay my student loan straight away?
No. Repayments normally begin only after you leave your course and earn above the threshold.
Is the Career Development Loan still available?
No. The scheme is closed to new applicants, but existing loans must still be repaid.
Can you help me understand student finance?
Yes. We explain loans, repayments and funding options in plain English.
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