Learning for Free

Whilst there are a number of grants and loans available to students who want to continue learning, there are also many opportunities to learn for free. These include Basic Skills courses to help with reading, writing and maths. If your first language is not English, there are also many free language courses to help improve your English.

There is also the opportunity to learn for free on the Internet: the BBC and learndirect offer free courses in literacy, numeracy, language and computer skills. Your local UK online centre or library can offer you free Internet access if you do not have it in your home.

If you claim a benefit or rely on somebody else who claims a benefit, you may get your fees for other courses paid in part or in full.

If you want to get back into work you could take part in a New Deal programme or Work Based Learning for Adults programme (WBLA). You may have your learning costs and expenses paid, along with an allowance in addition to your benefits.

If you are already in work, your employer may provide free training relevant to your job, such as the learndirect 'Learning through Work' scheme. This enables you to study for a short course or university level qualification without taking time off work.