How to Budget a Maintenance Loan Across a Full Term

Maintenance loans arrive in three instalments, and the summer term instalment usually has to stretch furthest. Plan for that from day one.

Start by fixing your rent for the year, then divide what remains by the number of weeks in each instalment period rather than by month.

Ask your university about hardship funds. Most institutions hold money that goes unclaimed every year because students never apply.

If your household income changes mid-year, you can ask for a current-year income assessment, which can increase your maintenance entitlement.