How to Apply for Financial Support

This page explains how to apply for financial support for a full-time higher education course:-

 

There are two agencies involved in processing applications:

 

 

We in the Local Authority are responsible for assessing your eligibility and entitlement to financial support.  The SLC is responsible for making payments and reclaiming student loans after graduation.

 

 

 

You can apply online.

This facility is available on the Student Finance Direct website.

 

You will receive a response to your on-line application within 20 working days.

 

When you apply online, you will receive a letter from the Student Loans Company advising you what you need to do next.

 

 

 

The first stage of the process is to complete a form PN1.  This form is available from the Student Finance Service. There is also a downloadable form available in the downloads section of the Directgov website.

 

When you submit your PN1 form, you will need to enclose your original passport - please note that we cannot accept photocopies.  If you do not want to send this through the post, you can bring it in person to the main reception point at Howden House where it will be photocopied and given back to you.  If it is posted to us, we will ensure that it is returned promptly and safely.  We have a policy of returning passports by special delivery.

 

You may also be required to submit other required documentation at this point, e.g. parents'/spouse's proof of income.  The form and accompanying notes will explain what you need to provide.

 

You will receive a response to your online application within 30 working days.

 

Please ensure that you pay the correct postage when sending your application to us. 

It is advisable to have the envelope weighed at the Post Office.

Last year a number of forms did not reach us because the postage was underpaid.

 

Application forms should be sent to:

 

Student Finance Section

Sheffield City Council

3rd Floor, Howden House

1 Union Street

Sheffield

S1 2SH

 

For further information on the application process, please see the page What Happens to My Application?