University of Bedfordshire - Student Maintenance Loan – 'Living cost loan'

What the Maintenance Loan gives you

You will receive a government loan to cover your living costs whilst studying for your bachelor’s degree in England, such as rent, food and travel costs. The amount depends on where you live during the term, as well as your household income. On average, the amount is around 562 EUR per month, with higher rates applying to students living in London away from home. The money is paid in instalments directly into your bank account throughout the year. This is not a grant from the University of Bedfordshire, but a government loan administered by the UK government via Student Finance England.

This is a loan, not a grant. You will only start repaying it once you have completed your studies, and only once your annual income exceeds approximately 29,000 euros (£25,000). You do not have to pay anything up front.

Who can apply

• Level: You are studying on a Bachelor’s degree programme.
• Study intensity: Full-time students are eligible to take part. Part-time students are also eligible to take part, provided that their degree programme is undertaken at a workload of at least 25%.
• Where you study: You are studying at a recognised university in England, such as the University of Bedfordshire.
• Nationality: This offer is aimed at students from the UK and the EU who meet the residence requirements for student finance.
• Field of study: Any subject.
• Financial need: The amount you receive depends on your household income. Regardless of your income, you will receive a smaller amount.

How to apply

You apply for funding online via ‘Student Finance England’. You do not need to have a confirmed place at university at this stage, so you can submit your application before you know exactly where you will be studying. There is no fixed application deadline, but you should submit your application early to ensure the money reaches you by the start of the term.

How realistic are your chances?

You cannot be refused on the basis of your academic performance. This is a statutory entitlement: if you meet the residence and study requirements, you will receive the grant. The only thing that varies is the amount of the grant, which is determined by your housing situation and household income – not by the decision of a selection committee. Apply for the grant well in advance so that the first instalment reaches you at the start of the year.