The Student Loans Company (SLC) is reminding new full-time undergraduate students in England to apply now for student finance.
Applying before the deadline (16th May) is the best way to ensure that funding is in place for the start of the 25/26 academic year, but it is not too late now just be quick! Last year, almost half (45%*) of new applications were received after the deadline.
Students in London had the highest proportion of late applications at 57%, while the West Midlands came in second place at 48%,
It can take six to eight weeks to process an application, so LD Training is encouraging students to apply now. Preparing for your course is an exciting and busy time for all students, especially those starting their course for the first time and getting your student finance application sorted early is one less thing to worry about.
Nearly half of applications were received after the deadline last year, so applying quickly gives you peace of mind over the summer months.
Students can apply without a confirmed place, as course details can be updated later and their application can be completed entirely online with no need to contact SLC. They should only send or upload evidence through
their online account if they are specifically asked to, which also helps to avoid any delays to their application being processed :
· SLC’s customer service teams are focused on processing applications to ensure customers have their funding at the start of term.
· Customers who have recently applied for student finance are advised that there is no need to get in touch with SLC unless asked to do so.
· Applications can take around six to eight weeks to be processed and during that time
· Students can track their application online and monitor their account for any updates
· SLC will let them know if there’s anything further they need to do.
If students do have queries about their application they can speak to LD Training Student Finance Adviser.
Returning students are also reminded to reapply for student finance before the deadline of 20th June 2025.
