England’s Department for Education has updated its Lifelong Learning Entitlement guidance to tell prospective students they can now apply for funding for eligible courses or modules starting between 1 January and 31 August 2027. The guidance was updated on 30 October; the courses themselves begin next year.
The new system will replace higher education student finance loans and advanced learner loans for qualifications at levels 4 to 6. It is intended to support study at different points in working life, including returning to education.
The department says new learners may access tuition fee loans up to £39,160, based on current fee limits. Previous publicly funded study can reduce the amount available to returning learners, and nationality and residency conditions still apply.
Applicants should check the eligibility of their chosen course and their own funding position before making plans. Students whose existing courses began before January 2027 will continue to receive funding through the current system.
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