I've applied (and been accepted) into a PhD starting this February (2018). As I knew the loans would come in in 2018, I assumed I'd be able to apply for one but it seems like the applications for PhD student finance don't open until March 2018. Does anyone know if this means I can still apply? Or how I can apply?

I think the PhD loans are for PhD's starting in September 2018 unfortunately.

Do you think you and the uni could wait and you start the PhD in September 2018? I don't think you are allowed to have started your PhD before you get the loan. In February 2018 we will still be in academic year 2017/18 and PhD loans are for the academic year starting 2018/19.

There's a bit about it on this page:
https://www.findaphd.com/funding/guides/uk-phd-loans-scheme.aspx

As you are self-funding I would think the university would be ok with you starting in September 2018.

It seems likely that applications for the PhD loan are made through Student Finance England and applications are made online. The applications don't seem to be open yet as you mentioned.

I dont know if they will as I'm due to start in February :( I don't think you are either but I'm confused as I would be starting in 2018? I can just about afford it but it'll be a massive strain and I'll be very frustrated to have JUST missed out on getting the help

I think it 's to do with the academic year. PhD loans are for the academic year starting 2018/19, which would be September 2018.

I understand you would be frustrated.

Could you speak to the fees department at the university? Or Student Finance England to confirm,

Another option might be to apply for charity funding? Run a search through the Alternative Guide to Postgraduate Funding, the university should be able to give you a password to access the website (for free) even though you haven't yet started.

I think applications will be opened in the Spring (whatever that means, perhaps March-April?), for students starting a PhD course in the 2018 academic year (Sept/Oct 2018).

If you are due to start in Feb, it might be an idea to defer your start until Sept if you really need the loan to make ends-meet, as it is clearly stated that student already studying a PhD are not eligible for the loan.

Just an idea but if the university says no and you need to start in Feb, perhaps asking if you can start in Feb 2018 on an internship. In the same department to get to know the people and facilities and you would self-fund this.

Then start the PhD officially in September 2018 with the loan.