Bath Spa University - Maintenance Loans

What the Maintenance Loan gives you

You will receive a government loan of up to about EUR 12,180 per year to cover your living costs whilst studying: rent, food and day-to-day expenses. The exact amount depends on where you live during the academic year. If you live with your parents, you’ll receive a lower amount; if you live outside London, you’ll receive more; and if you live in London, you’ll receive the highest amount. You may be eligible for a higher amount if you spend one year of your studies in the UK abroad. The money will be paid directly into your bank account in three instalments, at the start of each semester. This is administered by the government student finance bodies (Student Finance England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland). This is a loan, not a grant, so you will need to repay it after you finish your studies, but only once your income exceeds a set income threshold.

Who can apply

• Level of study: You are about to start a full-time bachelor’s degree programme or are already studying for one.
• Where you study: At a British university or college. You can only study abroad if it forms part of your British degree programme.
• Nationality and residence: You are from the United Kingdom (England, Wales, Northern Ireland or Scotland). Students from the EU are also welcome to apply.
• Field of study: Any topic is fine.
• Household income: Part of the loan depends on your household income – usually your parents’ income – so you will need to provide this information. From 2026/27 onwards, former residents of children’s homes can borrow the maximum amount without their parents’ income being taken into account.
• Distance learning: You can only receive this loan for a distance-learning course if you are unable to attend classes in person due to a disability.
• Previous study: If you have previously undertaken a higher education course, this may result in the amount you are eligible to borrow being reduced or cancelled altogether.

How to apply

You should submit your application online (or by post) to the student finance body responsible for your region in the UK, for example ‘Student Finance England’ via GOV.UK. Please submit your application at least four months before the start of your course, as it takes around four weeks to process. You will need to reapply for each academic year.

How realistic are your chances?

This is not a competitive scholarship, but an entitlement: if you are an eligible Bachelor’s student, you will receive the loan. The amount is determined by regulations, not by a selection panel. As long as you meet the residence and study requirements and submit your application by the deadline, you will receive the funding. Please bear in mind, however, that this is a loan which you will have to repay later, and not a gift of money.