The maintenance loan for EU students in UK is an essential topic for those planning to pursue higher education in the United Kingdom. Many students from across Europe consider studying in the UK because of its world-class universities and excellent academic reputation. However, living and studying abroad comes with financial responsibilities, and understanding what support is available is crucial.
This guide provides a detailed explanation of the maintenance loan for EU students in UK, who is eligible, how much support you can receive, how to apply, and what recent changes may affect your application.
What Is a Maintenance Loan?
A maintenance loan is financial support provided by the UK government to help students cover their day-to-day living costs, such as accommodation, food, books, travel, and other essentials while attending university. It is separate from the tuition fee loan, which covers the cost of the course itself.
The loan is paid directly to the student in regular instalments, usually at the start of each term. Repayment only starts once you graduate and earn over a certain income threshold.
Can EU Students Still Get a Maintenance Loan?
Yes, EU students can still apply for a maintenance loan in the UK, but there are conditions.
Before Brexit, all EU students were treated the same as UK students for student finance. However, things have changed. From the academic year starting August 2021, most new EU students no longer qualify for home fee status or financial support unless they have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS).
If you are an EU national and you have settled status, you may be eligible for both a tuition fee loan and a maintenance loan. If you have pre-settled status and meet the residency criteria, you might still be eligible – but it’s important to check the specifics.
Who Is Eligible?
To be eligible for a maintenance loan for EU students in UK, you must meet the following conditions:
- EU National or Family Member of an EU National
- You must be from an EU country or the child/spouse of an EU national.
- Residency Requirements
- You must have lived in the UK, EU, EEA, Switzerland, or Gibraltar for at least three years before the start of your course.
- If you’ve been in the UK for 5 years or more and have settled status, you can apply for full support.
- Course and Institution Eligibility
- The course must be an approved undergraduate or postgraduate degree at a recognised UK university or college.
- Status Under EU Settlement Scheme
- Settled or pre-settled status is now a key requirement.
How Much Maintenance Loan Can You Get?
The amount of maintenance loan for EU students in UK depends on several factors:
- Where you live and study (e.g., living at home, living away from home in London, or elsewhere).
- Your household income (parents’ or own income if independent).
- Your course length and academic year.
As an example (2025 figures are estimated):
- Living at home: Up to £8,610 per year
- Living away from home (outside London): Up to £10,227 per year
- Living away from home (in London): Up to £13,348 per year
Students from lower-income households are likely to receive more.
How to Apply
You can apply through Student Finance England (SFE) if you plan to study in England. Other regions have their own student finance bodies.
- Set up a Student Finance account online
- Provide proof of identity (passport, national ID)
- Submit details about your residency and immigration status
- Include information about your household income (for means-tested support)
- Apply before the deadline
Applications typically open in early spring for courses starting in September. It’s best to apply as soon as possible to avoid delays.
Documents You May Need
- Proof of settled or pre-settled status (via Home Office)
- Passport or national ID
- Proof of residence for the past 3–5 years
- Details of your course and university
- Income evidence (if applicable)
Repaying the Maintenance Loan
Once you complete your degree and start working, you’ll repay the loan via the UK tax system. The repayment threshold depends on which repayment plan you’re on (Plan 2, Plan 4, or Plan 5 for newer students).
As of 2025:
- You repay 9% of what you earn over £25,000 a year.
- If your income is below the threshold, no repayment is required.
- After 40 years (or 30 years, depending on your plan), any remaining debt is wiped.
Tips for Managing Your Maintenance Loan
- Create a monthly budget to track spending on rent, bills, groceries, and transport.
- Use student discounts for travel, food, and entertainment.
- Open a student bank account with benefits like 0% overdrafts.
- Look for part-time work (if allowed under your visa conditions).
- Use university support services for financial advice.
What If You’re Not Eligible?
If you don’t qualify for the maintenance loan for EU students in UK, you still have other options:
- Scholarships and bursaries from universities
- Private student loans
- Support from family or part-time work
- EU grants or Erasmus+ alternatives
Changes After Brexit – What to Watch
- New EU students arriving after January 2021 are no longer automatically eligible.
- You must apply to the EU Settlement Scheme by the deadline to qualify.
- Make sure to keep updated with the UK government’s student finance website, as policies may change.
How UK Admission Help Can Assist You
At UK Admission Help, we understand how confusing the process of applying for student finance can be – especially after Brexit. Our expert team offers step-by-step guidance for EU students planning to study in the UK.
We help you with:
- Checking eligibility for the maintenance loan for EU students in UK
- Gathering required documents
- Filling out and submitting the student finance application
- Exploring scholarships and other funding options
- Securing admission to top UK universities
Our mission is to ensure you have a smooth transition to UK education, both academically and financially.The maintenance loan for EU students in UK is a key financial support system that can make studying in the UK more affordable. While Brexit has changed the eligibility rules, many EU students can still access this support with the right status and guidance. Understanding your options early and applying on time is essential for a worry-free university experience. If you’re unsure about your eligibility or need help with your application, UK Admission Help is here to support you at every step.
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