How to Change Student Finance to a Different University

Changing universities is a major decision for any student, whether it’s due to a change of course, personal circumstances, or simply finding a better fit for your academic journey. But one of the first questions most students ask is: “How do I change my student finance to a different university?”

The short answer is this: you can update your student finance application through the Student Finance England (SFE) portal (or the relevant body if you are in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland). This usually involves logging into your account, updating your university and course details, and submitting any additional documents requested. In many cases, it’s as simple as editing your application online — but the process can differ depending on when you transfer (before term starts, mid-year, or in later years of study).

Now, while that’s the straightforward part, there’s a lot more you need to know to avoid delays in funding, overpayment, or unexpected financial stress. This article will walk you through everything step-by-step, with practical insights you won’t easily find elsewhere.

Why Students Change Universities (And Why Finance Needs Updating)

Switching universities is more common than many people think. According to Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) data, thousands of UK students change institutions each year, often within their first two years. The reasons vary:

• Course satisfaction – discovering a better-suited degree or teaching style elsewhere.

• Location – moving closer to family, or wanting a city experience instead of a campus one.

• Financial pressures – some students switch to universities with lower living costs.

• Support needs – students may transfer to institutions with better support for disabilities, mental health, or specific learning needs.

Whatever the reason, student finance must be updated. If you fail to notify Student Finance England (or equivalent), you could face delays in payments, risk overpayment (which must be repaid), or even suspension of your funding.

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Here’s where a unique insight comes in: many students mistakenly assume the new university will notify Student Finance for them. This is not true. While your university may confirm attendance once you’re enrolled, the responsibility to update your details lies entirely with you.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change Student Finance to a Different University

Changing student finance details may sound daunting, but broken into steps, it becomes straightforward. Below is a detailed process:

Step 1: Check Which Student Finance Body You Apply To

Your process depends on where you normally live, not where you study:

• England – Student Finance England (SFE)

• Scotland – Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS)

• Wales – Student Finance Wales (SFW)

• Northern Ireland – Student Finance NI

Most international students studying in the UK do not qualify for UK student finance, but some EU students may still access limited funding. Always confirm with your relevant body.

Step 2: Log into Your Online Account

Head to your student finance portal. If you’re with Student Finance England, you’ll need your login ID and password. Once logged in, look for the option to “Change your application” or update course/university details.

Step 3: Update University and Course Details

Here you can update:

• Your new university name and institution code

• Your new course title and course code

• The start date of your course (particularly if you’re starting mid-year or in a new academic cycle)

Pro Tip: Double-check the UCAS or university website for the exact course code and length, as entering incorrect details can delay funding.

Step 4: Submit the Change

Depending on timing, you may need to:

• Resubmit your application online, which is usually quick.

• Fill out a “Change of Circumstances” form (CO1 form) if your course change isn’t available to update online. This can be downloaded from the gov.uk website and sent by post.

Step 5: Wait for Confirmation

Your funding body will review the change. Processing times vary but can take 2–6 weeks, especially at the start of an academic year when applications peak.

What Happens to Your Funding When You Change Universities?

Here’s where things get interesting. Many students worry they’ll lose funding when they switch universities. In reality, student finance continues as long as you meet eligibility criteria, but some adjustments may apply:

1. Tuition Fee Loan – The amount will be updated based on your new university’s fees (most charge £9,250 per year, but some exceptions exist).

2. Maintenance Loan – This may increase or decrease depending on your new university’s location and whether you live at home, away from home, or in London.

3. Grants or bursaries – If you were eligible for additional support (e.g., Disabled Students’ Allowance, Childcare Grant), you may need to reapply or provide updated evidence.

Unique insight: One overlooked point is the “gift year” rule. Student Finance England usually funds the length of your course plus one extra year (“gift year”). If you’ve already repeated or switched courses, your entitlement may be reduced. Many students only discover this after transferring, leading to unexpected out-of-pocket tuition costs. Always check your remaining entitlement before confirming your move.

Changing Student Finance Before the Academic Year Starts

If you decide to switch universities before your course begins, you’re in luck. This is the simplest and fastest scenario.

• Log in to your student finance account.

• Edit your application to reflect the new university and course.

• Submit the changes.

Because no payments have been released yet, adjustments happen quickly, often within 2–3 weeks.

Changing Student Finance Mid-Year

This is where things get trickier. If you transfer after the academic year has started:

• Notify Student Finance immediately.

• Your previous university must inform Student Finance that you’ve withdrawn.

• Your new university must confirm your new enrolment.

During this gap, payments may be paused. Some students find themselves without maintenance loan payments for a short period. To prepare, it’s wise to have savings or discuss interim support with your new university’s student services.

Changing Student Finance in Later Years of Study

Changing universities after your first or second year is less common but possible. Here’s what you need to know:

• Your funding entitlement may be limited (because of the “gift year” rule mentioned earlier).

• If your new course is longer, you may need to self-fund the additional year.

• You might not qualify for the same bursaries or scholarships at the new institution.

A unique tip: always check whether your new university offers a transfer scholarship. While not widely advertised, some universities provide financial incentives for transfer students to cover gaps in funding.

Common Mistakes Students Make When Changing Student Finance

Through years of consultancy, I’ve noticed students often repeat the same mistakes. Avoid these at all costs:

1. Not informing Student Finance immediately – delays can lead to overpayment or suspension.

2. Assuming the university does it for you – as noted earlier, the responsibility is yours.

3. Ignoring the gift year rule – not checking entitlement early can leave you short.

4. Submitting incorrect course codes – even a small error can cause weeks of delay.

5. Not budgeting for the gap – expecting payments to be instant when, in reality, they can take weeks.

How Changing Universities Affects Repayment of Student Loans

Another common question is: “Will changing universities affect how I repay my student loan?”

The good news: No, your repayment plan doesn’t change. Student loan repayment depends on your income after graduation, not which university you attended.

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However, what may change is how much you borrow overall. If your transfer leads to an extra year of study, your total debt increases. While repayment thresholds remain the same, this could affect how long you remain in repayment before your balance is written off.

Tips to Smooth the Transition

If you want to avoid unnecessary stress, here are my consultant-level tips:

• Contact both universities’ finance offices as soon as possible — they can help confirm dates and reduce delays.

• Save at least one month’s living costs before transferring, in case of a gap in maintenance loan payments.

• Download and keep copies of all correspondence with Student Finance in case of disputes.

• Ask about hardship funds — many universities have emergency funds for students in transition.

• Plan accommodation early — if moving cities, ensure your new housing aligns with your updated loan.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I transfer my student finance if I switch to a part-time course?

Yes, but your entitlement changes. Part-time courses usually qualify for a tuition fee loan and possibly a maintenance loan, depending on the intensity of study.

2. What if I change universities through Clearing?

If you secure a place via Clearing, update your Student Finance application immediately. Many students forget this in the rush of securing accommodation and preparing to move.

3. Can I still get a maintenance loan if I move back home?

Yes, but the amount will likely decrease since “living at home” rates are lower than “living away.”

4. How long does it take for Student Finance to update my details?

It can take 2–6 weeks. Always prepare financially for a potential delay.

5. Will my old university’s debt affect my funding at the new one?

If you owe tuition fees to your old university, this does not stop Student Finance from funding your new course. However, you may face difficulties with academic records or references if debts remain unpaid.

Final Thoughts: Navigating Student Finance When Changing Universities

Changing universities can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, updating your student finance doesn’t have to add to the stress. The most important takeaway is this: you must take personal responsibility for updating your details with Student Finance.

Think of it as resetting your financial journey. By acting quickly, double-checking your entitlement, and preparing for temporary funding gaps, you can make the transition smoothly and focus on what matters — thriving at your new university.

And here’s my unique consultant’s insight to leave you with: view the transfer as a chance to reassess your entire financial plan, not just your loan. Budget for your new location, explore bursaries at your new university, and consider part-time work opportunities that align with your studies. Changing universities isn’t just a shift in academics — it’s a reset button for your financial independence as a student.