English students thinking of going to University for
the first time this autumn should complete their funding
applications online as soon as possible.
Absolutely everyone has had to come to terms with change this
year. The feeling that life has been placed “on hold” is
understandable – but it also provides an opportunity to get
things done.
So many people are finding creative and flexible ways to use time
to their advantage, and one of the things we’d urge students in
England who may be considering going to University this year to
do, is to make sure they get their applications for student
funding in as early as possible.
It doesn’t matter if you are not certain of which course or in
which University you will ultimately enrol. The main thing is to
invest time now to ensure funding will not be an issue later on.
Everything else can be altered once your University place is
confirmed.
There’s lots of help available for new students (see links below)
and applications can be completed online at www.gov.uk/studentfinance
Returning SLC customers; those not requesting student finance for
the first time, are also urged to get their funding renewal
applications in as soon as possible. New and Returning students
can apply at www.gov.uk/studentfinance.
I can’t stress enough that there are good reasons to get
applications in early - not least that it’s the best way to
ensure your funding will be in place for the start of the new
term.
Like everyone else, the Student Loans Company has had to
radically change how things are done and I’m immensely grateful
to colleagues who have shifted their location and way of working,
allowing us to continue processing and administering the millions
of loan applications we receive each year.
It’s what we do and our work is ongoing, but we are aware that
some people have experienced delays in getting online at busy
times of day. We know this is frustrating and appreciate your
patience and understanding. We are usually less busy after 5pm so
if you are unable to get online right away, please try again
later.
SLC exists to enable students to invest in their future through
access to further and higher education.
The easiest way to apply is online at gov.uk/studentfinance and
SLC has produced the following guide and a video to help with the
process: student finance
quickguide
There is also a dedicated resource for parents and partners who
are supporting applications here https://studentfinance.campaign.gov.uk/
Student Finance England has more information on the online
student community forum, the student room and
also on a dedicated area on the UCAS website
Students can also follow SFE at facebook.com/SFEngland, twitter.com/SF_England or youtube/SFEFILM to keep
up with all the latest news alerts.
