For students planning to study in England during the 2026–2027 academic year, understanding living costs and the financial support available is essential for effective financial planning.
The Student Loans Company has updated its guidance on student living costs, providing information on Maintenance Loan amounts for the 2026–2027 academic year and how household income can affect the funding students receive.
Living costs vary depending on where students study, their accommodation arrangements, lifestyle and financial commitments. While eligible students may receive financial assistance through Student Finance England, the amount available may not cover all their expenses.
Here is what students need to know about living costs, Maintenance Loans and additional financial support for the 2026–2027 academic year.
What Are the Main Living Expenses for Students in England?
The cost of studying at university or college extends beyond tuition fees. Students must also consider everyday expenses, which can differ significantly depending on their circumstances.
According to the Student Loans Company, the main expenses students should budget for include:
- Accommodation: Rent and other housing-related expenses.
- Travel: Transport costs, including travelling to university or college.
- Course Materials: Books, equipment and other study-related resources.
- Food and Drink: Groceries and everyday meals.
- Utilities: Gas, electricity and other household bills.
Students should contact their university or college to identify any additional expenses associated with their course.
They can also use budgeting resources provided by Student Space to estimate their living costs and manage their finances.
What Financial Support Is Available for 2026–2027?
Student Finance England (SFE) provides Maintenance Loans to help eligible students cover their living expenses during university or college.
The amount students receive depends on their living arrangements and, where applicable, household income.
All eligible students can receive a basic Maintenance Loan that is not assessed against household income. However, students may qualify for additional funding by providing information about their household income.
Minimum Maintenance Loan Amounts for 2026–2027
The minimum Maintenance Loan amounts have increased compared with the previous academic year.
| Living Arrangements | 2025–2026 | 2026–2027 |
|---|---|---|
| Living with parents | £3,907 | £4,013 |
| Living away from parents, outside London | £4,917 | £5,048 |
| Living away from parents, in London | £6,855 | £7,039 |
For 2026–2027, eligible students living with their parents can receive a minimum of £4,013, while those living independently outside London can receive £5,048.
Students living away from their parents in London can receive a higher minimum amount of £7,039.
These figures represent the basic Maintenance Loan amounts available to eligible students, rather than the maximum funding they may receive.
How Much Maintenance Loan Can Students Receive Based on Household Income?
Students who provide details of their household income may qualify for a higher Maintenance Loan.
Generally, eligible full-time undergraduate students from households earning £25,000 or less can receive the maximum amount available for their circumstances.
Students from households with higher incomes may receive reduced funding.
Students Living with Parents
For the 2026–2027 academic year, the maximum Maintenance Loan for eligible students living with their parents is £9,118.
| Household Income | Maintenance Loan Available |
|---|---|
| £25,000 or less | £9,118 |
| £45,000 | £6,060 |
| £58,387 | £4,013 |
Students with a household income of £58,387 or more would generally receive only the minimum amount of £4,013 under these standard circumstances.
Students Living Away from Parents, Outside London
Students living away from their parents outside London may qualify for a maximum Maintenance Loan of £10,830.
| Household Income | Maintenance Loan Available |
|---|---|
| £25,000 or less | £10,830 |
| £45,000 | £7,739 |
| £62,410 | £5,048 |
The figures demonstrate how household income influences the financial support available.
Different rates apply to students living in London and those with particular circumstances, including students receiving certain benefits, those in their final year and students with other students in their household.
What If Your Maintenance Loan Does Not Cover Your Living Costs?
Although Maintenance Loan amounts have increased for 2026–2027, the funding available may not cover every student’s total living expenses.
Students are expected to meet the difference between their Maintenance Loan entitlement and their actual living costs.
The Student Loans Company identifies several potential sources of additional financial support.
Part-Time Employment
Students may consider part-time employment to supplement their income while studying, subject to any applicable restrictions on their right to work.
Personal Savings
Savings can provide additional financial support for accommodation, travel and other essential expenses.
Support from Parents or Partners
Some students may receive financial assistance from family members or partners to help cover their living expenses.
University Bursaries and Scholarships
Universities and colleges may offer bursaries or scholarships to eligible students, depending on their circumstances and the funding available.
Local Authority Support
Certain students may qualify for additional support through local authority schemes, including the Higher Education Bursary.
Students should explore the financial assistance available through their university or college and check the relevant eligibility requirements.
Conclusion
Understanding student living costs is essential for anyone preparing to study in England during the 2026–2027 academic year.
The updated Maintenance Loan amounts provide increased financial support for eligible students. However, the funding available will continue to depend on household income, living arrangements and individual circumstances.
Students should assess their expected expenses, check their eligibility for financial assistance and explore additional funding options where necessary.
For international students, understanding the financial requirements associated with a UK Student visa is equally important.
At Morgan Smith Immigration, we assist international students with UK Student visa applications, including advice on eligibility, financial requirements and supporting documentation.
For professional UK immigration advice, contact us at 0203 959 3335 or email [email protected].
