Maintenance support in the UK: bursaries, grants and loans

Tell university bursaries, grants and Maintenance Loans apart, then check the terms of each. This guide sets out practical checks and questions to ask your university.

Similar phrases can mean different support

In everyday conversation, “maintenance support” can mean any help with living costs. In UK documents, a bursary, scholarship, grant and Maintenance Loan are not interchangeable. Read the official name and conditions, not just a translation.

Check the source and criteria

A bursary may come from a university, organisation or dedicated fund. It might depend on merit, income, subject or personal circumstances. Deadlines and evidence may be separate from a Student Finance application.

Ask whether support must be repaid

Some grants or bursaries are not repaid, but may have rules about progress, attendance or use. A Maintenance Loan has a different arrangement. Never assume support is non-repayable; confirm in writing.

Look for support after enrolment

A university may offer hardship funding or one-off help. Ask what is available, who can apply and which financial evidence is needed. Apply before a temporary difficulty becomes urgent.

Frequently asked questions

Is a bursary the same as a Maintenance Loan?

No. They are different forms of support with different terms.

Does a bursary have to be repaid?

It depends on the scheme. Check the bursary’s official terms.

Do I need a separate bursary application?

Often yes; check the provider’s process, deadline and form.

Can I receive a bursary and a loan?

That depends on each scheme’s conditions and the rules that apply.

Where can I find hardship funds?

Ask the university’s finance or student-support service.

What evidence might be needed?

Income, enrolment or personal-circumstance documents may be requested; follow the fund’s list.