My student loan hasn’t come through

You’ve moved into student accommodation, lectures have started, but you’re obsessively refreshing your online bank account wondering, ‘when will my student loan come through?’ Read on to find out what you can do.

Why hasn’t my student loan turned up?

There could be lots of reasons that your student loan hasn’t come through, including:

• Student Finance could just be behind on processing loans.
• They may not have all the information they need from you. Check you’ve filled in all your forms and sent any extra documents they’ve asked for.
• Remember, you have to re-submit your application every year. Are you sure you applied again?

What can I do to speed things up?

How long does it take student loans to come through? According to UCAS it can take up to six weeks. If it has already been longer than that, you could call Student Finance and politely ask when will my student loan come through. You’ll find them happy to help. The numbers you need are:

• Student Finance England: 0300 100 0607
• Student Finance Wales: 0300 200 4050
• Student Finance Northern Ireland: 0300 100 0077
• Student Awards Agency for Scotland: 0300 555 0505

Will my university chuck me out if I can’t pay my tuition fees in time?

This is highly unlikely. Student loans, for various reasons, are often delayed, so universities are advised by the NUS and the government to show understanding.

Go to your student services and explain the situation. Take your forms and any supporting evidence, such as a receipt, with you to show you’ve applied to student finance.

How do I afford to live while I’m waiting for my loan?

Mention this to student services as well – they’ll be able to help you apply for any relevant hardship loans, such as the Access to Learning Fund. Most universities also have National Association of Student Money Advisers (NASMA).

Most student bank accounts have interest-free overdrafts, and this is the perfect time to use them. Don’t go too overboard though, remember you’ll have to pay it back eventually. Read our article on minimising your debt for more advice. Check out our advice on choosing a bank account here.

If you’re really struggling, could your parents give you a short-term loan? You can always pay them back when your loan finally comes through.

Student Finance have told me I’m not eligible for a loan – but I’m sure I am

You might want to start by checking that you’re definitely eligible for a loan here. If you tick all the right boxes and there’s no reason why you shouldn’t get a loan you can contact student finance to launch an appeal.

If you need further support on this, give us a call on 0808 808 4994. We’re unable to give specific money advice but can guide you to the best places for expert support.