Students are urged to apply as soon as possible to ensure their finances are in place before the start of term.

The deadline is 21 May for new students and 25 June for returning students. The quickest and easiest way to apply is online at https://studentfinance.campaign.gov.uk/

Derek Ross, executive director of operations at the Student Loans Company, said: “The launch of the application service signals that it is time for students to get on with the important business of organising their finances. We expect it to be a busy year with more applications than ever and are urging students to apply now. Students that apply before the deadline can be confident knowing their finance will be in place for the start of term.”

“Resources are available online to help students and their parents and partners with their applications and they can also follow Student Finance England on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest student finance information.”

Top tips to get your student finances sorted

Apply early

Apply as early as possible to make sure your finances are in place before your studies start. Even if you don’t know what course you are doing, you should still apply now. Enter your first choice and you can update the application later if required.

Make sure you understand how much funding you may be entitled to

You can apply for Tuition Fee Loans to cover your fees and Maintenance Loans to help with living costs.

Keep contact details up-to-date

Make sure you provide an up-to-date email address so you can be contacted about your application if necessary.

Have your important documents at hand

Have your National Insurance Number and passport details to hand before you start your application as you will be asked for this information when you apply.

If you have studied before

If you have studied before it could affect your eligibility – even if your previous course was self-funded. Submit your application early so your entitlement can be confirmed.

If you are returning to study after a break, you should use the online account you had originally rather than create a new one.

If you need extra funding

You may be able to access some extra money, for example if you are disabled, have children or are studying for a medical, social work or teaching course. Find out more about what is available.