Advanced Learner Loan: adult study funding with no income or credit check

The Advanced Learner Loan is a government loan that helps adults pay the course fees for study at a college or training provider in England. It is designed for people returning to study: retraining, upskilling, or preparing for higher education.

Who can get it?

It is for adult learners on eligible further education courses in England. A key advantage: eligibility does not depend on your income, and there is no credit check. That sets it apart from an ordinary bank loan — you cannot be refused for a poor credit history. Before applying, check with your provider that your course qualifies.

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Could you get a grant instead?

For some Level 3 courses, instead of a loan you may get an Adult Skills Fund grant, which does not have to be repaid. So before taking the loan, ask your college whether a free funding option is open to you.

How does repayment work?

Repayment works like a student loan: you only start repaying once your income is over the set threshold. If your income is below it, you pay nothing. Interest is charged from the day you get the first payment. Voluntary extra repayments are possible but not required.

When is the debt written off?

There is an important benefit. If you complete an Access to Higher Education course on this loan and then finish a higher education course, Student Finance England will write off any outstanding Advanced Learner Loan balance. The higher education course must be eligible for student finance. Extra repayments made before you start the HE course are non-refundable — worth bearing in mind.

What else to know

Learners may also qualify for the Bursary Fund — help with childcare, travel or course trips — which can run alongside the loan. The loan itself is paid directly to your college for the fees, not to you. A decision usually comes quickly, so you can apply shortly before a course starts, though earlier is better.