Students in England can now submit applications for student finance through a newly established system following the introduction of the Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE).
The Student Loans Company (SLC) has announced that individuals intending to commence a course between 1 January and 31 July 2027 are eligible to apply for the LLE.
The LLE supersedes the previous undergraduate funding framework for students qualifying through Student Finance England (SFE). Additionally, certain postgraduate courses, including healthcare and teaching qualifications, will receive funding under the new initiative. Furthermore, some courses that were previously financed by the Advanced Learner Loan (ALL) system will also be included under the LLE.
The launch of the LLE marks a substantial transformation of the student funding landscape in England, establishing a cohesive and adaptable funding model designed to assist learners in balancing their studies with work and family commitments.
Application Process
To apply for the LLE, you will need a GOV.UK One Login account. If you do not have an account, you can easily create one. Initiate your LLE application by visiting the relevant platform.
Upon starting the application, you will be directed to the GOV.UK One Login portal for account sign-in or creation. You will be informed about any need to verify your identity once you have logged in.
Available Funding
Eligible applicants may receive:
- Tuition Fee Loans to assist with the costs of course tuition fees.
- Maintenance Loans to help cover living expenses.
- Additional support such as grants or allowances for those with a low income, disabilities, or dependents.
The level of support available is contingent upon the number of credits pursued. All qualifying courses will carry a specified number of credits; for instance, a full-time year of a bachelor’s degree typically equates to 120 credits.
For students who have not previously accessed student finance, there is a standard entitlement for a Tuition Fee Loan of up to £39,160, which corresponds to approximately 480 credits. Depending on the specific course or modules selected, it may be possible to fund more than this number based on the provider’s charging structure.
For those who have availed of student finance in the past, prior study will be taken into account when determining the tuition fee funding available via the LLE.
Maintenance Loans can amount to a maximum of £15,415 per academic year, influenced by factors including household income, residency during study, and the number of credits undertaken. The amount of Maintenance Loan awarded may vary each academic year.
Additional financial assistance may also be accessible from other sources, such as:
- Funds from universities or colleges, including bursaries, scholarships, or hardship provisions.
- NHS funding or bursaries for students enrolled in specific courses, such as nursing or social work.
Repayment Information
Repayment of loans is required only after the completion or withdrawal from a course or specific module, in accordance with the earning thresholds established in Repayment Plan 5. Further details on repayment obligations are available. Interest will accrue on any loans from the day the first payment is disbursed. Additional information regarding interest calculations can also be found. Any outstanding loans taken out through the LLE will be cancelled 40 years following the April in which you first become liable for repayment.
Further Details
For comprehensive information regarding eligibility, available funding, and the application process, please visit the official government website at gov.uk/lifelong-learning-entitlement.
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