Do I Have To Pay for Adult Learning Courses?

Taking the leap back into education as an adult is a bold and inspiring decision. It’s a step towards broadening your horizons, improving your career prospects, or even achieving a long-held personal goal.

But if financial worries have you hesitating, you don’t have to go it alone. With funded courses, financial support and the option to pay in instalments for some courses, the path to achieving your dreams can be smoother than you think.

Here’s your guide to navigating the financial side of returning to learning, with plenty of support and encouragement to get you started.

Discover Financial Support Options

When it comes to funding a course, there’s more help out there than you might realise. It’s all about exploring your options and finding the solution that fits you.

Free Courses That Fit Your Needs

Imagine upgrading your skills or even taking a course equivalent to A Levels without spending a single penny. That’s what programmes like Free Courses for Jobs offer. If you’re earning under £25,000 a year or it’s your first time studying at this level, you might qualify for completely funded training.

And for those living in certain areas or receiving benefits like Universal Credit, there are locally-funded programs available to help you gain practical skills that are in demand. These opportunities are tailor-made to help you succeed in today’s evolving economy.

Advanced Learner Loans for Flexible Payment

For higher-level qualifications, Advanced Learner Loans can be your financial lifeline. These loans cover eligible Level 3 or above courses, and the best part is, you don’t pay anything upfront. Repayments only kick in if and when your salary surpasses £25,000 a year.

What’s even better is, if you pursue a university-level course after an Access to Higher Education Diploma, you could have the entire loan written off. It’s a win-win for your future and your finances.

Paying in Instalments to Ease the Load

For those longer courses where you might pay out-of-pocket, we offer instalment plans. Splitting the cost over multiple payments can make your budget more manageable, especially when juggling other responsibilities.

Learning Support Grant

Burnley College has partnered with Family Action, who, through Barclays, are awarding grants right now of up to £1,000 to Adult Learners who have children living at home*.

The grants can be spent on technology, food and bills.

Smart Budgeting Tips for Educational Success

Even with financial assistance, creating a budget will make a big difference in keeping your learning journey stress-free. Here’s how you can get started:

• Start With a Clear Plan
  Write down your anticipated expenses, including tuition, books, transport, and childcare. Then, compare this with your income and available financial aid
• Track Every Penny
  Use apps or a simple spreadsheet to track your spending. Little savings, like packing lunches instead of eating out, can go a long way
• Leverage Discounts
  Many retailers offer discounts for students—even adult learners. Get an NUS Totem card or explore local deals
• Think About Your Long-Term Goals
  It can be tempting to cut out all “extras” from your budget, but remember, this is an investment in you. Treat your education like the game-changer it is.

Take Action Today

It’s normal to have questions or feel unsure about your next steps. But don’t put it off – reach out to our Adult Learning Advisors: fill out an online enquiry form, or attend our monthly Advice and Guidance Evening for 19+ & Degree-Level. The more you learn about your options, the clearer your path to success becomes.

If you’re ready to invest in yourself, remember this is a decision you’ll rarely regret. Education opens doors, builds confidence, and creates brighter futures. Yes, the financial side takes careful planning. But with free courses, flexible loans and grants, there’s a solution for nearly every situation.

Take the first step toward your dreams today. Education isn’t just for the young – it’s for anyone ready to grow, and that includes you.

You’ve got what it takes, and the support is there to help you thrive.

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• Contact us: [email protected]