Student finance: how to apply
Proof of identity
When you apply online, you’ll be asked to give valid passport details.
If you’re from the UK and you cannot apply online
Fill in the UK passport details form.
Do not send your physical passport.
Academic year | Form |
---|---|
2025 to 2026 | UK passport details form 2025 to 2026 |
2024 to 2025 | UK passport details form 2024 to 2025 |
If you do not have a UK passport or it has expired
How you prove your identity depends on your nationality.
If you’re a UK national
You can either:
- upload a copy of your birth or adoption certificate to your student finance account
- send a copy of your birth or adoption certificate to Student Finance England by post
You do not need to send your original birth or adoption certificate.
If you’re an Irish national
Send your physical Irish passport by post.
If you’re not a UK or Irish national
Provide details from one of the following when you apply:
- passport
- national identity card
- biometric residence card
- expired biometric residence permit
Where to send forms or documents
Student Finance England
PO Box 210
Darlington
DL1 9HJ
If you send original documents, include your 11-digit customer reference number (CRN) and return address. You’ll get your documents back within 4 weeks.
You do not need to include a prepaid or self-addressed envelope.