Wojciech
Diploma for Financial Advisers
Diploma in Accounting
Member of London Institute of Banking and Finance
If you’re planning to start university in 2025/26, you’re probably asking: How much student maintenance loan can you get in 2025/26? This loan is designed to help cover your living costs, like rent, food, and travel, while you study. While exact figures for 2025/26 haven’t been confirmed yet (they’re usually announced in early 2025), we can estimate based on current rules. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Is a Student Maintenance Loan?
The maintenance loan is money you borrow from the UK government to pay for daily living expenses during your studies. Unlike tuition fee loans (which go straight to your university), this cash lands in your bank account at the start of each term. You’ll repay it later, but only once you earn above a certain salary.
How much you get depends on three things:
- Your household income (usually your parents’ or guardians’ earnings).
- Where you live while studying (e.g., at home or away from home).
- Your university’s location (London, other UK cities, or elsewhere).
How Much Student Maintenance Loan Can You Get in 2025/26?
The maximum amount you can get depends on where you live.
| 2024 to 2025 academic year | 2025 to 2026 academic year | |
|---|---|---|
| Living with your parents | Up to £8,610 | Up to £8,877 |
| Living away from your parents, outside London | Up to £10,227 | Up to £10,544 |
| Living away from your parents, in London | Up to £13,348 | Up to £13,762 |
| You spend a year of a UK course studying abroad | Up to £11,713 | Up to £12,076 |
| If you’re 60 or over on the first day of the first academic year of your course | Up to £4,327 | Up to £4,461 |
If your household income is £25,000 or less, you’ll likely qualify for the maximum amount. If your household earns more, your loan decreases gradually. For example:
- £35,000 household income: Loan drops by roughly £1,000.
- £50,000 household income: Loan drops by around £3,000.
- £60,000+ household income: You’ll get the minimum loan (about £3,698 in 2023/24).
Note: These numbers are estimates. The 2025/26 amounts will be confirmed closer to the application window (likely early 2025).
Who Decides Your Loan Amount?
The Student Loans Company (SLC) calculates your maintenance loan based on the details you (and your parents/partner) provide in your application. They’ll need:
- Proof of household income (e.g., tax documents, payslips).
- Your course start date and university location.
- Your living arrangements (at home, away, or in London).
If your family’s financial situation changes after you apply (e.g., a parent loses their job), you can ask the SLC to reassess your loan.
How to Maximize Your Maintenance Loan
- Apply early: Submit your application as soon as the 2025/26 window opens (around February/March 2025). Delays can mean late payments.
- Update your details: If your household income drops or your living situation changes, tell the SLC immediately.
- Check for extra support: Students with disabilities, children, or low incomes may qualify for additional grants or bursaries.
What If the Loan Isn’t Enough?
Let’s be honest: the maintenance loan might not cover all your costs, especially in expensive cities like London. Here’s what you can do:
- Part-time work: Most students work 10–15 hours a week.
- Bursaries/scholarships: Universities and charities offer free cash based on grades, background, or hobbies.
- Budget wisely: Use apps like Monzo or Money Dashboard to track spending.
Repaying Your Maintenance Loan
You usually won’t start repaying until after you graduate. Even then, you’ll only pay if you earn over the threshold (currently £25,000/year). Payments are automatic (9% of your earnings above the threshold). For example:
- Earning £30,000/year: You’ll pay £37/month.
- Earning £40,000/year: You’ll pay £112/month.
Any remaining debt is wiped after 30 years.
FAQs About the 2025/26 Maintenance Loan
Q: Can I apply if I’m a part-time student?
A: Yes! Part-time students can get a maintenance loan, but it’s adjusted based on course intensity.
Q: What if my parents don’t want to share their income details?
A: You’ll only get the minimum loan unless they provide this info. Explain that their income won’t affect their finances—it’s just for your loan calculation.
Q: Does the loan affect Universal Credit or other benefits?
A: Maintenance loans count as income, so they might reduce your benefits. Check with the Jobcentre Plus.
Final Thoughts
So, how much student maintenance loan can you get in 2025/26? While we’ll need to wait for official numbers, the system will likely follow the same rules as previous years. Plan ahead, apply early, and explore extra funding options to make your university experience stress-free.
For the latest updates, visit the UK government’s student finance page.
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