Blog | What Funding Is Available for Adult Learners?

Returning to education as an adult can be life-changing. Whether you are 19+, looking to upskill, or considering a late career change, the cost of training can feel like a major barrier. The good news is that there are several funding routes and support schemes in England designed specifically to help adult learners access education and improve their prospects.

This guide explains the main types of financial support available for adults, what they cover, and how to apply.

The Adult Skills Fund (ASF)

One of the most important funding streams for adult learners is the Adult Skills Fund (ASF). This government-funded programme supports people aged 19 and over to gain essential skills, qualifications, and vocational training.

ASF funding is typically managed by colleges and training providers and is intended to remove financial barriers to learning. Depending on your circumstances and the course you choose, this can mean:

• Reduced or fully funded tuition fees
• Help with essential course costs such as books, uniforms, equipment or materials
• Support with exam, registration or DBS fees in some cases

ASF funding focuses on helping adults improve employability, retrain for new careers, or progress to higher levels of study. Priority is often given to learners moving on to the next level of training, care leavers, and young adult carers.

Support is limited and not automatic. Each application is assessed individually, and funding is allocated based on need and availability.

Learner Support & Bursaries

Alongside ASF-funded courses, many colleges offer Learner Support or discretionary bursaries for adults experiencing financial hardship.

These funds are designed to help with practical costs that might otherwise prevent someone from attending college. Support may include:

• Food allowance
• Travel assistance
• Discretionary bursary payments
• Course-related costs

To qualify, learners usually need to:

• Be aged 19+ at the start of the academic year
• Demonstrate genuine financial hardship
• Provide evidence of household income and benefits

For the 2025/2026 academic year, support is generally aimed at households with a taxable income of £35,000 or less. Income assessments take into account earnings, Universal Credit, Jobseekers Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, pensions, and tax credits.

Even if you meet the criteria, awards are not guaranteed. Funds are limited, and early application is strongly advised.

Continued payments are normally conditional on maintaining at least 90% attendance and meeting expectations around coursework and behaviour.

Childcare Support for Adult Learners

For adults with children, childcare can be one of the biggest obstacles to returning to education.

Eligible learners aged 20+ on funded full-time or part-time programmes may receive help with registered childcare costs during college term time. Support can cover up to 100% of approved childcare fees, capped at £5,600 per learner (pro-rata).

Key points to know:

• Childcare providers must be Ofsted registered
• Support applies to timetabled study days only
• Learners remain responsible for extras such as meals or trips
• Attendance requirements still apply

This type of funding can make a significant difference for parents or carers who would otherwise struggle to balance study and family commitments.

Support Through the Department for Work & Pensions

If you are unemployed or receiving benefits, it is important to speak to an advisor at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) before applying for college-based support.

In some cases, financial assistance may already be available through benefit-related schemes, and education providers are required to check that other sources of funding are not more appropriate. Early contact with the DWP is essential, as processing times can affect enrolment.

Advanced Learner Loans

For certain higher-level courses (typically Level 3 and above), adults may need to use an Advanced Learner Loan rather than ASF funding.

These loans cover tuition fees and are only repaid once your income exceeds a set threshold, similar to student finance for university. Learners taking out an Advanced Learner Loan are usually not eligible for standard ASF bursary support, although some providers offer separate hardship funds.

How to Apply

Applications are made directly through your chosen college or training provider.

The process generally involves:

1. Completing a funding or bursary application form
2. Providing proof of income and supporting evidence
3. Clearly explaining what support you need to complete your course

Decisions are often made within around 14 working days after submitting a complete application, with funding confirmed once enrolment is complete. If funds are exhausted, applicants may be placed on a waiting list.

If your circumstances change during the year, you must inform your provider, as this may affect your eligibility.

You also have the right to appeal funding decisions, usually within seven days of being notified.

Providers follow guidance from bodies such as the Education and Skills Funding Agency to ensure support is distributed fairly.

Find Out What Support You Could Access at Chelmsford College

At Chelmsford College, we understand that finances can be one of the biggest barriers to returning to education. That's why we offer a range of financial support options designed to help adult learners focus on their studies, not their budget.

From help with course costs, travel and childcare, to discretionary bursaries for those facing hardship, our team is here to guide you through what funding may be available and how to apply.

For full details, eligibility criteria and application guidance, please visit our Financial Support page.

If you'd prefer to speak to someone directly, our friendly team is happy to help. For further information, please call 01245 265611, and we'll talk you through your options.