Find out everything you need to know about student finance for 2025 to 2026 undergraduate applications! There are two main costs associated to Higher Education; tuition and living (e.g. food, accommodation, books). You can apply for government loans for one or the other or both, depending on your circumstances.
Full-time undergraduate 2025 to 2026 applications are now open.
To ensure your funding is in place for the start of the academic term:
You need to apply for student finance as soon as possible to ensure your funding is in place for the start of the academic term. It can take up to six weeks to process your application so if your application is late your money might be too.
Student Finance England regularly update their Facebook and Instagram with key information regarding the application process, follow them so you don't miss the announcement!
It is advised to start your student finance application as soon as possible to make sure you get your money in time for starting your course.
Don’t worry if you don’t have a confirmed place at university or college, you can apply using your preferred choice and simply change the details online later if you need to. Make sure to check your eligibility for receiving Student Finance here.
The quickest and easiest way to apply for student finance is online here. It can take up to 6 weeks to process your application so you should apply for Student Finance as soon as possible when applications open. If your application is late your money might be too.
When filling out your application you’ll need your passport, national insurance number and bank details so make sure you have these to hand. You’ll also need to have a bank account in your own name. It will take around 30 minutes to complete your application.
Some student finance can depend on your household income which is the income of your parents or partner so Student Finance will need some information from them to. Remember your application can’t be access until Student Finance have all the information they need.
If you are applying to study Higher Education at West Herts College there are a couple of important things to know before filling out your application. Speak to our admissions team on
The amount you receive depends on a variety of factors, including your household income, where you're studying and whether you live with your parents.
In order for Student Finance England to calculate the maintenance loan, it is important that you provide as much detail as possible, regarding your household income.
Once you’ve applied for student finance online and your parent or partner has sent their details, the application is sent to Student Finance England to be processed. Sometimes Student Finance England need more evidence and information, it’s important you send any information they ask for as quickly as possible to avoid any delay in your application being processed.
Once your application has been accessed by Student Finance England you will be sent a Student Finance Entitlement Letter showing how much student finance you will receive and when you will be paid. You should keep this letter to show the college when you enrol.
Your tuition fee loan will be paid directly to the college and your maintenance loan will be paid directly into your bank account in three instalments. The college will let Student Finance England know when you have enrolled and Student Finance will then make the first payment to you.
If anything changes after you have started like your address or bank details you can change this on your online Student Finance account.
Barnfield College offers a wide range of Higher Education courses browse our offering here and apply through UCAS.
