Pursuing higher education in the UK can be one of the most rewarding decisions for your future—but it often comes with a hefty price tag. Fortunately, there are a range of student loans and grants available in 2025 to help UK-based and eligible international students fund their university journey without falling into long-term financial stress.
1. Student Finance England (SFE) Loans
Higher education in the UK is an investment in your future—but for many students, it can feel financially out of reach. Fortunately, the UK government, universities, and other institutions continue to offer student loan schemes and grants to support students in funding their education. As we enter 2025, these options have evolved to better match the financial needs of students in today’s economy.
For most UK-based students, Student Finance England (SFE) remains the primary provider of student loans. Students pursuing undergraduate degrees are eligible for two main types of support through SFE: tuition fee loans, which cover the full cost of tuition and are paid directly to the university, and maintenance loans, which help with living costs like rent, food, and travel. The amount a student receives in a maintenance loan depends on their household income, location, and whether they live at home or away during their studies. In 2025, the maximum maintenance loan for students living away from home in London has risen to £14,222, while students living at home can receive up to £8,904.
One of the most reassuring aspects of the UK’s student loan system is that repayments are income-based. Under Plan 5, introduced for newer students, repayments begin only after you start earning over £25,000 annually. Interest rates are tied to inflation and your income, making repayments manageable and proportionate to your earnings.
Students from Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have their own funding bodies. In Scotland, the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) covers tuition fees for eligible Scottish students studying in Scotland, making it one of the most generous systems in the UK. Students in Wales can apply through Student Finance Wales, which offers a mix of loans and non-repayable grants under the Welsh Government Learning Grant. This model ensures students from lower-income households receive more grant support, reducing the amount they need to borrow. In Northern Ireland, Student Finance NI provides a similar structure to England with tuition and maintenance loans available.
In addition to standard student loans, grants and bursaries continue to play a crucial role for students in specific circumstances. One example is the Special Support Grant (SSG), designed for students receiving income-related benefits or with disabilities. Unlike loans, this grant does not need to be repaid and does not impact any existing government benefits. Similarly, students with disabilities or long-term health conditions can access Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). This grant is not income-based and can cover specialist equipment, personal support, and travel costs, helping to remove barriers to education.
Universities themselves are also a valuable source of financial aid. Many UK institutions offer bursaries and scholarships based on academic merit, household income, or personal circumstances, such as being a care leaver or first-generation student. Universities like King’s College London, University College London, and the University of Manchester have extensive financial support programs, and some even provide hardship funds for students facing unexpected financial challenges.
For those pursuing further education, postgraduate funding options have expanded in 2025. Students enrolling in a Master’s degree can apply for a Postgraduate Master’s Loan worth up to £12,471. PhD students can benefit from the Doctoral Loan, which now provides up to £29,390 over the duration of the course. These loans are flexible and can be used for both tuition fees and living expenses. Like undergraduate loans, they are repaid only once you meet the minimum income threshold, offering a safety net for those still establishing their careers after graduation.
Part-time and online students are not left behind either. As long as they are studying at least 25% of a full-time course load per year, they remain eligible for tuition fee and maintenance loans. This ensures greater flexibility for those balancing education with work or family responsibilities.
International and EU students face a more complex funding landscape due to post-Brexit policy changes. Most now need to self-fund their education, but there are exceptions. EU students with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme may still qualify for tuition loans. Additionally, international students can apply for competitive scholarships like Chevening, Commonwealth Scholarships, and GREAT Scholarships, many of which cover full tuition and living expenses at top UK institutions.
In summary, the UK continues to provide a wide range of student finance options that make higher education accessible in 2025. With a combination of government-backed loans, non-repayable grants, and university scholarships, students can build a funding package tailored to their individual needs and circumstances. Whether you’re pursuing an undergraduate degree, entering a Master’s program, or studying part-time or online, there are solutions available to help reduce the financial burden and let you focus on what truly matters—your education and future career.