The application deadline is this Friday, 16 May 2025. Students can submit applications after the deadline, but applying before the deadline is the best way to ensure that funding is in place for the start of the 2025/26 academic year.
According to the SLC, almost half (45%) of new applications last year were received after the deadline.
Students in London had the highest proportion of late applications at 57%, while the West Midlands came in second place at 48%, followed by the East of England and Yorkshire and the Humber, both at 41%. The South West had the lowest number of late applications, with a third (33%) being submitted after the deadline.
Why freshers need to apply for finance now
It can take 6-8 weeks for the SLC to process an application, in line with the student finance regulations.
Students can apply without a confirmed place at university, as course details can be updated later. Applications can be completed entirely online with no need to contact the SLC.
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Students should only send or upload evidence through their online account if they are specifically asked to, which also helps to avoid any delays to their application being processed.
Steven Darling, director of customer experience at the SLC, said: “We know that preparing for university is an exciting and busy time for all students, especially those starting their course for the first time, and getting your student finance application sorted early is one less thing to worry about.
“We received almost half of applications after the deadline last year, and with around 1.5 million applications every year, applying early means your funding is much more likely to be ready for the start of term and gives you peace of mind over the summer months.”
Students can apply for a tuition fee loan to cover fees and a maintenance loan to help with other costs.
Students applying for a higher education maintenance loan will also need their parents or partner to support their application online before the deadline.
Top tips for students to get their funding is in place on time
- Apply now, even if you don’t have a confirmed course or university place
- Have your National Insurance number, passport details, and bank account information to hand when making your application
- Only send evidence or supporting information if you are asked to
- Use ‘Common Questions’ or SLC’s Virtual Assistant for answers to your questions
Returning students need to reapply for student finance before the deadline of 20 June 2025.
