Summerfield Browne Solicitors are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. SRA number 598802.
University and College students in the UK often take out student loans to fund their studies and further education. Student loans are typically taken out by undergraduates and postgraduates at University. Student loans are often only payable once certain criteria are fulfilled (for example when annual earnings exceed a certain level) and, in some cases, disputes can arise between the lender and the student. Many of these disputes have resulted in court proceedings and, if you find yourself in this situation you are not alone.
Took the time to listen to my specific case and were honest enough to give their opinion on the potential outcome(s).
You may feel that the student loan company has got it wrong and denied your request for deferment of payments.
We have been instructed by clients who find themselves in a dispute with their student loan company over deferment requests that have been denied. In some cases, court proceedings have been issued and our clients have had to respond by defending the claims.
Going to court can be stressful and time consuming and we have solicitors that have experience in responding quickly and efficiently to court proceedings involving student loan disputes and denied deferment requests. We always strive to provide advice and representation to clients on a cost-effective basis whatever the value of the dispute.
We have been made aware that some student loans taken out between 1990 and 1998 are being dealt with by a company called Erudio Student Loans and if you find yourself in a dispute, we have solicitors that are ready to assist.
Can student loans be disputed?
Yes, student loans can be disputed, and we can assist you navigate the complaints and appeal process. We will prepare a robust and comprehensive appeal with compelling legal arguments and case law. We are experts in this field.
Does student debt get written off?
Yes, this is dependent on the type of plan that you have with the Student Loans Company. It is dependent upon when you were paid your first loan for your course.
If you are concerned regarding the interest rates, or whether you have not met the threshold for repayments or are suffering from a long-term illness or disability.
If a person dies before the loan is repaid, this will automatically be written off.
What are the interest rates?
In terms of the interest rates, these are statutory interest rates as calculated in accordance with the provisions of the Education (Student Loan) (Repayment) Regulations 2009, as amended. There are no provisions which allow the Student Loans Company to suspend interest accrual.
Can you appeal a student loan?
Yes, if you are not satisfied with the reason why your student finance was rejected and feel that there has been an error in the application of the regulations, you can appeal the decision.
There is a 2 stage appeal process, an independent assessor stage and if you are still not happy, you can escalate the matter to the Parliamentary and Health Ombudsman. However, your local MP will need to approve the final step and counter sign your form for the Ombudsman.
