You can apply for student finance now if you’re planning to study a full-time, undergraduate course at Birmingham City University. Many students starting in September have already applied for their finance.
You can apply for student finance now if you’re planning to study a full-time, undergraduate course at Birmingham City University. Many students have already applied for theirs.
Which system do I use?
If your course started in September 2026 or earlier, you'll continue applying through Student Finance England (SFE), as before.
If your course or module starts on or after 1 January 2027, you can apply through the new Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE) instead, which opens in September 2026.
Whichever system applies to you, the advice is the same: don't wait to apply.
I don’t know if I got on my course
You don’t need to wait until your place is confirmed. You can update the details on your application later, once you’ve had your results. Applying now means your application can start being processed straight away.
What happens if I don’t apply now?
If you leave it too late, your money might not be ready in time for the start of your course. Applying early is the only way to be sure your full student finance is in place from day one.
If you’re applying for extra support, such as Disabled Students’ Allowances or Childcare Grant, it can take longer to assess, so get your application in as early as possible.
If your finance isn't sorted before your course starts, you may not be able to cover your tuition fees or living costs, which could mean falling back on Hardship Loans or having to leave your course.
I’ve filled in my bit, but I’m waiting on my parents doing theirs
Your application can't be finished until every part is complete. Keep checking in with your parents to make sure they've submitted their income details too.
For more on how student finance works, visit Student Finance England or find out more about the Lifelong Learning Entitlement.