Worried that you don’t have enough money to start studying? You’re not alone…
The cost of education can often feel like a barrier to gaining new skills or changing careers. But whether you’re looking to complete a professional qualification or go back to university, there’s a range of funding options available for adult learners. You just need to know where to look.
To help you get started, here’s a quick rundown of the different types of adult learning grants, bursaries, and loans available to help you fund your learning, along with details on who is eligible and how you can apply:
What are adult learning grants?
An adult learning grant is a sum of money given to help with your education, training, and living costs. Unlike a loan, you usually don’t have to pay this money back.
Grants and bursaries are typically awarded based on specific criteria, such as your income, personal circumstances, or the adult learning course you’re studying. They can be paid directly to you or to your college or university to cover fees.
These funds are designed to make adult learning education more accessible, helping you to upskill or retrain without the financial stress.
What type of course is right for me?
What grants and bursaries are available for adult learners?
There are various types of funding for adult education, and the one you choose will depend on your age, circumstances, and the adult learning program you want to pursue. Here are a few of the most common adult learning grants:
16 to 19 Bursary Fund
The 16 to 19 Bursary Fund is available to support young people who might struggle with the costs of full-time education or training.
There are two types of bursaries:
- A bursary for students in vulnerable groups: You could get up to £1,200 if you’re in care, a care leaver, receive Income Support, or get both Disability Living Allowance (or Personal Independence Payments) and Employment and Support Allowance (or Universal Credit).
- A discretionary bursary: If you’re not in one of the vulnerable groups, you can still apply for a discretionary bursary. Your school or college will decide who gets this funding and how much, based on factors like your family’s income and your individual needs.
Advanced Learner Loan
If you’re aged 19 or over and want to study a Level 3 to 6 qualification, you can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan.
This loan helps cover your tuition fees and works similarly to a traditional student loan. It isn’t based on your income, and there are no credit checks. The minimum loan amount is £300, but the total you receive will depend on your course fees.
- How many Advanced Learner Loans can I have? You can take out up to four loans in total. This means you can fund multiple courses, allowing you to build a broad skill set or pursue various interests over time.
- When do I pay it back? Repayments only start once you’ve finished your course and are earning over a certain amount. The current threshold is £27,295 a year, £2,274 a month, or £524 a week. If your income drops below this, your payments will stop automatically.
- How much do I pay back? You’ll repay 9% of your income over the threshold. For example, if you earn £30,000 a year, you’ll repay 9% of £2,705, which works out to about £20 per month. Interest is charged on the loan from the day you get your first payment.
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Bursary Fund for Advanced Learner Loans
In addition to the loan for your tuition fees, you might also be able to get extra help from the Loan Bursary Fund.
This fund is designed to help adult learners with other costs associated with studying, such as:
- Accommodation and travel
- Course materials and equipment
- Childcare
- Classroom assistance for a disability or learning difficulty
You apply directly to your college or training provider for this bursary. They will decide if you’re eligible and how much you can receive. This type of funding is a great way to manage the extra expenses that come with adult learning education.
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Are there any other funding options?
Yes, there are many other grants and bursaries for adult learners offered by various organisations and charities.
A great place to start your search is Turn2us, which has a searchable database of educational grants.
You can also find course-specific funding. For example:
- The City & Guilds Foundation provides bursaries for those studying for a City & Guilds or ILM qualification.
- NHS bursaries are available if you’re training in medicine, dentistry, or healthcare.
- You could get a bursary for social work or teacher training.
- Dance and Drama Awards can help with fees and living costs at some private schools.
- The General Federation of Trade Unions Educational Trust Grants fund courses and educational projects related to trade union studies, economic theory, and industrial law.
- Teacher training funding supports those training to become a teacher, with a mix of bursaries, scholarships, and loans.
If you’re already in work and looking to do some adult learning training to progress your career, you might find your employer is willing to help. Many companies have training budgets and are happy to invest in their staff’s development. It’s always worth having a conversation with your manager about potential funding.
View all grants and bursaries for adult learners
Other ways to make studying more affordable
In addition to grants, bursaries, and loans, there are practical ways to reduce the cost of your studies:
- Discounted courses: Many training providers and online platforms (such as Reed Courses) regularly offer courses at reduced prices. It pays to keep an eye out for discounts before enrolling.
- Free learning resources: A wide range of free courses are available online, including short courses and introductory modules in various subjects.
- Online forums and learning communities: These platforms are valuable for accessing study tips, support, and practical advice from peers – often at no cost.
- YouTube and video tutorials: Video content can provide clear explanations and demonstrations on a variety of topics, from academic skills to hands-on tasks.
- Part-time work while you study: Taking on flexible, temporary, or part-time work can help cover living expenses and provide valuable experience alongside your studies.
- Apprenticeships: Apprenticeships combine paid employment with structured learning, allowing you to gain practical skills and earn an income while you train.
Exploring these alternatives can make education more accessible and manageable, without relying solely on traditional funding routes.
Benefits of adult learning
Adult learning offers a range of practical benefits that go beyond the classroom:
- Career advancement: Gaining new qualifications can help open up opportunities for promotion or a change in direction at work.
- Personal growth: Expanding your knowledge can improve your confidence and introduce you to new ideas and interests.
- Skill development: Courses give you the chance to strengthen hard and soft skills that are valuable both in and out of the workplace, from technical know-how to communication.
- Networking: Taking part in classes connects you with others in your field or with similar interests, which can be valuable for future opportunities.
- Flexibility: Many adult learning programmes are designed to fit your schedule, with options like evening classes, online courses, and short workshops.
Frequently asked questions
Still have questions about funding for adult education? Here are our answers to some common queries.
Am I too old for an adult learning grant?
Definitely not. There’s no upper age limit for most adult learning grants and bursaries, including the Advanced Learner Loan. Lifelong learning is encouraged, and these funds are designed to support individuals at any stage of their career.
Do I need good credit to get an Advanced Learner Loan?
No, your eligibility for an Advanced Learner Loan is not based on your credit history. The decision is based on your age, the course you’re taking, and the college or training provider.
Can I get funding for a part-time adult learning course?
Yes, many funding options are available for part-time learners. The Advanced Learner Loan, for example, is available for part-time courses. The amount of funding or loan you receive may be prorated based on the intensity of your study.
What if my application for funding is rejected?
If your application is unsuccessful, don’t be discouraged. First, find out why it was rejected – there might be something you can fix on your application. You can also explore other options, such as the charity grants listed on Turn2us, or discuss payment plans with your course provider.
Final thoughts
Taking on a new course or qualification is a big step, but a lack of funds shouldn’t hold you back from achieving your career goals.
With a range of adult learning grants, bursaries, and loans available, financial support is out there to help you gain the skills needed to progress in your career.
Take the time to research your options, check your eligibility, and apply for the funding that best suits your needs. Your future self will thank you.
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