How instalments work

Lesson 2 of 15 in our free Student Finance guide: a 5-minute money game with the key points below.

Shown for England. Some rules here are different in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland: the lesson shows your nation's version.

This lesson is in the full version.

Free with a code from your uni, college, council, landlord or employer (worth £600/year). Lesson 1 of Student Finance is free for everyone.

Questions you'll answer

Mo gets the 2026/27 maximum for living away from home outside London: £10,830, split into three equal instalments. Roughly how much is each one?

Your first instalment hasn't arrived and term has started. What's the most likely reason?

Fact: “The Maintenance Loan is usually paid in three instalments a year.” — Normally once a term, into your UK bank account.
Myth: “The first instalment arrives before you register at uni.” — It's normally released once the uni confirms you've registered.
Fact: “If you're short before your first payment, your uni may help with an advance or hardship support.” — Many unis have emergency support. Ask the student money team.