Student Finance at UK Higher Education Providers
Guides to Student Finance England tuition fee loans, maintenance loans and eligibility at UK alternative higher education providers like GBS, Arden and QA HE. Pick a provider to see loan amounts, campuses, application steps and FAQs.
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Providers
Global Banking School (GBS)
Tuition fee loan up to £6,935/year + maintenance loan up to £13,762/year.
View GBS guideArden University
Tuition fee loan up to £9,535/year + maintenance loan up to £13,762/year.
View Arden guideQA Higher Education
Tuition fee loan up to £6,935/year + maintenance loan up to £13,762/year.
View QA HE guide2025/26 loan bands at a glance
| Loan | Amount (max) |
|---|---|
| Tuition fee loan — alternative provider | £6,935/year |
| Tuition fee loan — recognised university | £9,535/year |
| Maintenance loan — London (away from home) | £13,762/year |
| Maintenance loan — outside London (away) | £10,544/year |
| Maintenance loan — living at home | £8,877/year |
Source: Student Loans Company / gov.uk 2025/26 rates.
Frequently asked questions
What is an alternative higher education provider?
An alternative provider is a UK institution that offers higher education but is not a traditional university. Designated alternative providers such as GBS and QA HE can enrol students who fund their studies through Student Finance England.
Do alternative providers get the same student loan as universities?
Tuition fee loans at alternative providers are capped at £6,935/year for 2025/26, compared with £9,535/year at recognised universities. Maintenance loans are the same at both — up to £13,762/year in London.
Which HE providers are covered here?
This hub currently covers Global Banking School (GBS), Arden University and QA Higher Education. More alternative providers will be added.