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4th Nov 2026
From January 2027, the way many people access student finance in England is changing, creating new opportunities for adults looking to gain qualifications, develop their careers or learn new skills.
The Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE) is a new, more flexible student finance system for eligible higher and further education courses starting on or after 1 January 2027. It will bring together the existing higher education student finance system and Advanced Learner Loans for eligible Level 4, 5 and 6 qualifications.
Applications for LLE funding are now open, giving prospective learners the opportunity to explore their options ahead of courses starting in January.
What is the Lifelong Learning Entitlement?
The LLE is designed to make student finance more flexible, giving eligible learners aged 18 and over greater choice over how and when they study throughout their working lives, up to the age of 60.
Its three key themes are flexibility and control, choice and practical pathways. Whether you want to progress in your current career, retrain for a new profession, develop specialist skills or work towards a higher-level qualification, the new system aims to make learning more accessible.
Eligible learners will be able to access a Tuition Fee Loan of up to £39,160, equivalent to four years of study based on the maximum tuition fee for the 2026/27 academic year. Depending on individual circumstances and the course being studied, you may also be eligible for a Maintenance Loan and additional support.
Greater flexibility and control over your learning
One of the main changes under the LLE is the opportunity to access funding for individual modules at Levels 4 to 6, rather than committing to a full qualification upfront. This means you could choose to study a single module to develop specific professional skills or build towards a full qualification over time, fitting your learning around work and other commitments.
You will also be able to track your remaining loan entitlement through a personal online account, helping you keep track of the funding available to you. You will need to apply for funding for each course you study. If your course lasts longer than one year, you will need to reapply for each year of study.
Start your next step in January
At Abingdon & Witney College, four professional programmes starting in January 2027 offer opportunities to develop your knowledge, enhance your career prospects and work towards higher-level qualifications:
Find out what funding is available to you
Eligibility for student finance depends on your individual circumstances, including your chosen course, previous study and residency status. The amount of funding available may also vary depending on your circumstances.
The Government recommends that prospective learners check the official guidance to understand how the LLE will apply to them.
Find out more about the Lifelong Learning Entitlement on GOV.UK, including eligibility and how to apply for student finance for courses starting in 2027.
Ready to take your next step? Explore our Undergraduate and Professional Courses and discover how learning could help you achieve your ambitions.
