SLC Calls for Early Applications to Ensure Timely Student Funding for 2025/26 Academic Year

Deadline Approaches: SLC Highlights Importance of Timely Applications for Student Funding

The Student Loans Company (SLC) has issued a reminder to new full-time undergraduate students in England to submit their student finance applications ahead of the 16 May 2025 deadline. Early submission is strongly recommended to ensure funding is processed in time for the 2025/26 academic year, allowing students to focus on their studies without financial delays.

Last year, nearly 45% of new applications were received after the deadline, highlighting the importance of timely submissions. Regional data revealed that London had the highest proportion of late applications at 57%, followed by the West Midlands at 48%, and the East of England and Yorkshire and the Humber at 41%. The South West had the lowest proportion, with 33% of applications submitted after the deadline.

For the 2024/25 academic year, SLC disbursed over £23 billion in student funding, including £5 billion for first-term maintenance and tuition fee payments. For the upcoming 2025/26 academic year, SLC has already received over 630,000 applications, with more than 450,000 in the 'ready to pay' status. Therefore, students are urged to apply early to ensure timely processing and avoid delays in receiving funding. SLC's Director of Customer Experience, Steven Darling, highlighted that processing applications takes six to eight weeks. He emphasised that applying early improves the chances of having funding ready for the start of term and provides peace of mind over the summer, as nearly half of last year's applications were submitted late.

Students are encouraged to apply even without a confirmed university place, as course details can be updated later. The application process is entirely online, and additional evidence should only be provided if requested to avoid delays. Furthermore, students should ensure that they have their National Insurance number, passport details, and bank account information ready when making their application.

SLC's customer service teams are focused on processing applications to ensure timely funding. Students are advised not to contact SLC unless prompted, as applications take six to eight weeks to process. During this time, students can track their application status and receive updates through their online account. Additionally, Live Chat support is available for quick assistance. For students applying for a higher Maintenance Loan, their parents or partner must support the application online before the deadline. Providing their correct email addresses will streamline this process. SLC advises using the 'Common Questions' section and Virtual Assistant for quick help. If further assistance is needed, the Live Chat service is available through the online account. By following these steps, students can help ensure that their funding is processed efficiently and on time.

Editor's Note:

The importance of submitting student finance applications early cannot be overstated. With the approaching 16 May 2025 deadline, new full-time undergraduate students in England are encouraged to apply well in advance to ensure that their funding is processed in time for the start of the 2025/26 academic year. As highlighted by the Student Loans Company (SLC), timely applications are essential to avoid delays that could affect students' ability to begin their studies smoothly. Last year, nearly half of the new applicants missed the deadline, causing stress for students and added pressure on SLC's customer service. By applying early, submitting correct information, and using available resources like online accounts and live chat, students can increase the likelihood of having funding ready for the start of the term.

Skoobuzz believes that obtaining financial resources during the initial phases is crucial for students to facilitate a smooth academic transition and prevent potential disturbances. This efficient digital process offers significant security by confirming the required financial support before the established date, thereby eliminating the likelihood of non-compliance. It is highly recommended that students utilise all accessible resources and assistance to ensure an uninterrupted initiation of their academic pursuits.