The Maintenance Loan is a government-backed loan designed to help students with their living costs while studying in the UK. Unlike the Tuition Fee Loan (which goes directly to your university), the Maintenance Loan is paid directly into your bank account for you to spend on rent, food, transport, and other essentials.
How Much Can You Receive?
The amount you can receive depends on where you live and study. For the 2025/26 academic year, the maximum amounts are: up to £13,022 per year if you live away from home and study in London, up to £10,227 per year if you live away from home outside London, and up to £8,400 per year if you live with your parents.
How Is It Paid?
The Maintenance Loan is paid in three instalments — one at the start of each term. The first payment is usually the largest (covering the longer autumn term), with the second and third payments being roughly equal.
Do You Have to Pay It Back?
Yes, but only when you start earning over £25,000 per year after graduating. Repayments are automatically deducted from your salary at 9% of everything you earn above the threshold. For example, if you earn £30,000 per year, you would repay 9% of £5,000 — that is just £450 per year, or about £37 per month.
If you never earn above £25,000, you never make any repayments. After 40 years, any remaining balance is written off completely.
Is the Maintenance Loan Means-Tested?
The full amount is available to all eligible students regardless of household income. However, some students from lower-income households may be eligible for additional grants (such as the Childcare Grant), which do not need to be repaid.
How to Apply
You apply for the Maintenance Loan through Student Finance England at the same time as your Tuition Fee Loan. SAGA Global Education can help you complete your application — contact us at office@sagaedu.co.uk or WhatsApp +44 7361 824226.