Year 13 students now have their mock exam results back which gives them a clearer picture of how to identify the firm and insurance degree course choices they should be making. It is an exciting time for them as they narrow down the original selection of five courses to just two. It also serves to focus their attention on topics, concepts, theories and the technical aspects of answering questions smartly. Many students have already secured accommodation and should now be turning their thoughts to arranging finance. You will note in this week's bulletin a number of links to Student Finance England, the Quick Start Finance Guide, Student Loans - A Guide, Student Finance - How You're Paid and the Martyn Lewis website which contains lots of useful information. Each of these publications offers step by step guidance on how to complete and submit the application.

In simple terms, students apply online for finance and complete this process before Friday 22 May 2020 to ensure the loan is secured. Last year, a total of 800,000 loans were taken with more than 250,000 applications submitted in the first month alone.  

Derek Ross, Student Loan Company Executive Director of Operations, said: “The launch of the application service is one of the biggest dates in the student finance calendar. It means that students can get on with the important job of getting their student finances sorted. The application takes 30 minutes to complete online and for most students the process will be straightforward. However, we know that some individuals require extra support and our team of expert staff are ready to help them.”

Here are some ‘top tips’ to help students with different circumstances get their student finances sorted in plenty of time for the new academic year.

• Apply early to get finances in place before the beginning of the course.  

• Keep contact details up-to-date, including any changes to your email address.

• Have important documents to hand.

Students will also need their National Insurance Number and passport details to hand before starting their application as they will be asked for this information when they apply.

Having their final course choices made, accommodation arranged and student finance in place will leave students free to focus fully on plugging gaps in their knowledge and to practise answering questions under timed conditions. I trust you find the links and information provided here helpful.