A NEW online service is expected to make applying for student grants and loans a little easier this year.

The online service should be up and running from May but students hoping to start courses this autumn can begin applying now.

Forms to apply for all types of financial support are now available from schools and colleges or from Wiltshire County Council on (01225) 713891 or by emailing studentfinance@wiltshire.gov.uk

The online forms will be available at www.studentfinancedirect.co.uk

The forms cover the new higher education grant and student loans and provide help with tuition fees and other forms of financial help.

Details of the type of support available can be found at www.dfes.gov.uk/studentsupport

Students already in higher education and who will be continuing on the same course in the next academic year will be sent a set of application forms to their home address during April.

Applications for students planning to start in the autumn should be submitted by July 2.