Semi-Urgent Questions About a Tier 4 Visa

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Hi, I'm going to uni there from America in September. I've tried to research my questions, but I can't seem to figure everything out. I'd like to have some answers soon, since I want to get everything sorted ASAP.

1. I haven't applied for loans yet. When should I apply by?

2. They sent me an e-mail saying "When the loan process has been completed by us, (from late July/August 2012) the letter confirming funds for visa purposes (if applicable) will be sent to you." Isn't that cutting it a bit late to apply for a visa? I had wanted to be in England the last week of August/first week of September. They had said they'd get back to us in June about financial aid, and we had to e-mail them the week before this past one, and then they responded a few days afterwards. Maybe I'm just stressing out, but it seems like applying that late wouldn't be a good thing.

3. Do I need to have biometric information taken? I seem those words thrown about, but in the requirements on the UKBA website I don't see it specifically stated. If so, when should I go to the local immigration office?

4. How long does the visa last for? Is it like student loans where I have to apply every year, or will it last the duration of me studying in England (4 years)?

Sorry if those sound really simple, but I'm lost. Thanks for the help!