Studying at university first time. Need advice regarding maintenance loan

Sugar198778

Hi I’m gonna be studying online BA Hons criminology & Physcology in August 2026. Anyways I receive uc with children element & lwrca . I’m thinking of taking the maintenance loan as I read that dwp will still cut money from my uc even if I don’t take the loan . So I’m better off applying for the loan Does anyone know if that’s true or not ? I’m really confused as to what I shall do

Mary_Scope

Hi @Sugar198778 and a warm welcome to the community from me!

That sounds like a really interesting degree, Criminology has always ben intriguing to me!

Education and benefits can be really complex so it best to speak to the specialists about this on the Disabled Students Helpline as they should be able to advise you correctly😊

forgoodnesssake

Yes that is true. I had this conversation with DWP a few years ago and couldn't believe that they treat a loan as income, but they do, even if you don't actually take a loan; if you are eligible they assume you have it!. The only period that they will cover with things like ESA and UC is the summer vacation as the student loan is only for the academic year.

justsaying2025

Yes, the maintenance part of the loan is taken into account in full. Usually any grants you get on top would be disregarded however.

There is a disregard amount as well when they calculate the student income deduction. Sounds like an interesting degree, how exciting. Good luck.