This post first published: 04 February 2026
On 30 January, a new guidance chapter for the LLE was published on GOV.UK: www.gov.uk/lifelong-learning-entitlement.
For eligible courses and modules starting from January 2027, the LLE will transform the student finance system in England. It will create a single funding system which gives students more flexibility over how they study.
The LLE will offer funding to cover tuition fees and help towards living costs, as well as extra help for students with dependants, disabilities or long-term health conditions.
When to apply
Students will be able to apply for LLE funding from September 2026 to help them develop new skills and gain qualifications at a time that’s right for them.
For courses starting between 31 August 2026 and 31 December 2026, students should apply for the current student finance that’s available. These students can apply from late March 2026 and can sign up to find out when applications open.
What you can do to help
If you speak to a student thinking of starting a course from January 2027, please encourage them to visit the new LLE chapter on GOV.UK and to follow us on social media to keep up to date with LLE.
Further information
We’ve signposted LLE information across GOV.UK, SFE Practitioners site, The Student Room and UCAS.
