Updating University Details: Student Finance, A Simple Guide

If you need to change the university on your student finance application, you can do so via your online account. You can also apply by post if you're unable to apply online. Changes to your date of birth or place of birth cannot be made through your online account, and you will need to provide original evidence plus a signed and dated cover letter requesting the change. It's important to let Student Finance England know of any changes as soon as possible, as it could affect your funding.

Changing course details

It is important to keep your course details up to date with Student Finance England, as some changes can affect your funding and loan payments. For example, if you change your course, university, or college, this could impact your funding.

You can change your course details through your online Student Finance account. To do this, log in to your account at www.gov.uk/studentfinance, then go to 'Your Account' > 'Change your application' > 'University/college course'. If you are unable to make the change online, you can upload a completed CO1 Form to your online account, and Student Finance England will make the changes for you. You can also apply by post if you are unable to apply online.

If you have already started your course and need to change your course, university, or college details, you will need to ask your university or college to send a request to update your application. This can take up to six weeks to be approved.

If you are an EU student, you can download an EUCO1 form to notify Student Finance England of any changes to your course, university, or college.

Updating bank details

Updating your bank details for student finance is a straightforward process. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Sign in to Your Online Account

Go to www.gov.uk/student-finance-register-login and sign in to your online account. It is important to note that you must have a UK bank or building society account in your own name, as payments cannot be made to third-party accounts or non-UK accounts.

Step 2: Navigate to "Your Personal Details"

Once you are signed in, select "Your Personal Details" from the menu at the top of the page. From here, you will be able to manage and update your personal information.

Step 3: Select "Change" Next to "Bank Account Details"

On the "Your Personal Details" page, look for the "Bank Account Details" section. Next to it, you should see a "Change" option. Select this to initiate the process of updating your bank details.

Step 4: Confirm Your Old Bank Details

For security purposes, you will need to confirm your previous bank or building society details. This step helps ensure that only authorized individuals can make changes to the account.

Step 5: Enter Your New Bank Account Information

After confirming your old details, you will be prompted to enter your new bank or building society account information. Provide the new account details accurately to ensure future payments are directed to the correct account.

Step 6: Review and Confirm the Changes

Before finalizing the updates, carefully review the new bank details you have entered. Confirm the changes when you are satisfied that the information is correct.

Important Considerations:

• It is recommended to update your bank details at least 4 working days before a scheduled payment to ensure the changes take effect.
• If you are unable to make the changes online, you can also update your bank details by phone or by submitting a completed CO1 form.
• Remember to keep your details up to date throughout your course, as changes in circumstances, such as bank details, can impact your loan payments.
• If you are an EU student, you may need to download and submit an EUCO1 form to notify Student Finance England of any changes to your course or university.

Changing personal details

It is important to keep your personal details up to date, as some changes can affect your loan payments. For instance, if your household income or bank details change, you must update your application.

You can change your bank details by signing into your online account. However, if you are expecting a payment, Student Finance England requires four working days' notice to change your bank details, so the payment is made to your new bank account.

If you have entered the wrong nationality on your application, do not worry. Once you have submitted your identity evidence, Student Finance England will automatically update your nationality to match what is on your ID.

If you have changed your name, you will need to provide a covering letter with a clear photocopy of one of the following documents to show the reason for your name change:

• Deed poll document
• Marriage certificate
• Civil partnership certificate
• Statutory declaration
• Change of name certificate

If you have changed your gender, Student Finance England will not assume that you have changed your gender. For example, if you get a change of name deed to a name associated with a different gender, they will not change your gender on your account unless you ask them to.

Changes to your date of birth cannot be made through your online account. You will need to provide original evidence, plus a signed and dated cover letter requesting the change. You should also include your customer reference number in the covering letter. This can be found on your online account. You can send a copy of your medical records that clearly show your full name and your correct date of birth, signed and dated by your doctor.

The only way to update your place of birth is by writing to Student Finance England, requesting the change. Please include your name, customer reference number, the date, and your signature on the letter.

Cancelling an application

Cancelling a student finance application can be done in a few different ways. Firstly, it is important to note that you should cancel your application if you've changed your mind about going to university or college, or if you've accidentally completed the wrong type of application.

If you've already registered for your course and want to cancel your student finance application, you will need to contact your university or college, and they will cancel it for you. If you have not yet registered, you can log in to your online account at www.gov.uk/student-finance-register-login and select 'Undergraduate student finance applications'. From there, you can view and manage your application, and there should be an option to cancel it.

If you are unable to cancel your application online, you can call the phone number provided on the website. It is also possible to change the amount of your maintenance loan to £0, which will effectively cancel your application, although this may take some time to be processed.

It is important to note that if you cancel your application and want to reapply, it may take up to 6 weeks for the changes to be approved. Additionally, if you are an EU student, you will need to download and fill out an EUCO1 form to notify Student Finance England of any changes to your course, university, or college.

Applying by post

If you want to apply by post, you can follow these steps:

• Download the application form: Go to the government website and download the 'Change of circumstances' form. This form is used to update your university or college details.
• Fill out the form: Provide your personal details, such as your name, date of birth, and National Insurance number. You will also need to enter your new university or college choice, the course you will be studying, and the start date of your course.
• Include supporting documentation: Along with the completed form, you should include any evidence or supporting documents that may be required. For example, if you are changing your university or college due to a change in your personal circumstances, you may need to provide relevant evidence.
• Send the form and documents by post: Ensure you sign and date the form before sending it to the following address: Student Finance England, Student Support Directorate, Darlington DL1 4HX. Allow ample time for processing, especially if your course start date is near.
• Wait for a response: Anticipate a response from Student Finance England, who will process your application and update your details. They may contact you for additional information. Typically, they respond within 6 weeks, but it could take longer during busy periods.
• Contact for assistance: If you have queries or concerns, contact Student Finance England. They can guide and help resolve any issues. Ensure your application is correct to prevent delays in receiving funding.

By following these steps, you can change your university details by applying via post. While straightforward, allow time for processing. Hence, submit your application promptly to avoid delays.

Frequently asked questions