In the UK, the student loan, provided by the Student Loans Company, is a provision that helps students pay for their university tuition and living costs. Students in the UK can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan and a Maintenance Loan. The Tuition Fee Loan is paid directly to the university or higher education institute providing the tuition and the Maintenance Loan is paid directly to the student to help them pay their rent and other living costs while they study.