Information for New Students
Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLF)
The LLE is a new funding system starting January 2027 for England, which replaces some existing Higher Education funding.
What is the Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE)?
The LLE is a new funding system starting January 2027 for England. It replaces some existing Higher Education funding and offers tuition fee loans, maintenance loans, and targeted grants based on the number of credits studied.
Who can apply for LLE funding?
Both new learners and those who have previously studied can apply, provided they meet eligibility criteria.
What courses are eligible for LLE funding?
Modules of higher technical qualifications and Level 4, 5, and 6 modules from designated full qualifications in certain subject groups. Modules must be worth at least 30 credits and part of an existing designated course.
How much Tuition Fee Loan can I get?
New learners can access up to 4 years of full-time tuition (approx. £38,140 based on 480 credits). Existing learners will have reduced entitlement depending on previous support. Must be under 60 years old.
What is Priority Additional Entitlement?
Extra funding for full courses in priority subjects like Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Allied Health, Teacher Training, and Social Work when your LLE balance is £0.
What is Special Additional Entitlement?
Extra funding for high-cost courses such as Veterinary Surgery, Architecture, and certain Scottish degrees when your LLE balance is £0.
Can I get a Maintenance Loan?
Yes, if your course requires face-to-face attendance. Distance learners can only apply if disability prevents attendance.
How is the Maintenance Loan calculated?
Based on household income, location, study intensity, and whether you live at home or elsewhere.
Are there extra grants available?
Yes, including Parents’ Learning Allowance, Adult Dependants Grant, and Childcare Grant.
When do I start repaying my loan?
Only when earning over £25,000 annually. Repayments are 9% of income above this threshold. Loans are written off after 40 years.
What other help is available?
Disabled Students Allowance, NHS Learning Support Fund, Social Work bursaries, teacher training bursaries, scholarships, trust funds, and help with health costs.
How do I apply for student finance?
Apply before your course starts. Applications open around September for January start dates. You have 9 months from the start of the academic year to apply.