What Is the Adult Learning Grant and Am I Eligible

Originally written by Sarah Wray, updated by the editorial team on 5th June 2026

What was the Adult Learning Grant?

The Adult Learning Grant, often called ALG, was a form of financial support designed for adults returning to education in England. Unlike a loan, this was a grant, meaning recipients did not have to pay it back.

The grant provided a weekly payment to help cover everyday costs that come with studying. This included expenses such as travel, books, childcare, or other living costs necessary to focus on a course. This type of support may have significantly assisted many adult learners in continuing their education.

However, the ALG was phased out in England during the 2011/2012 academic year. If you are looking for financial support for adult learning today, you will need to explore the current funding options that have replaced it.

Student Funding Eligibility Checker

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What support is available now?

Several funding routes have replaced the Adult Learning Grant for adults returning to education in England.

The Advanced Learner Loan is available for courses at Level 3 to Level 6 for learners aged 19 and over. Unlike the old grant, this is a loan that you repay once you earn above a certain income threshold.

The Adult Education Budget funds free or subsidised courses for eligible adults. If you are aged 19 or over and do not already hold a Level 2 or Level 3 qualification, you may be able to study certain courses for free. Eligibility often depends on your employment status and household income.

Many colleges and training providers also offer their own bursaries or hardship funds. These vary by institution and are worth asking about when you enrol.

Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.

Support across the UK

Funding arrangements differ across the nations of the UK. If you are studying in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, separate schemes apply.

In Scotland, the Individual Training Account and other Skills Development Scotland programmes provide support for adult learners. Wales offers the Personal Learning Account for eligible employed adults, along with funding through Welsh Government programmes. Northern Ireland has its own arrangements through the Department for the Economy, including Essential Skills courses offered free of charge.

Check with your local college or the relevant government website for your nation to find out what you may be entitled to.

How to find and apply for funding

Start by speaking to the student support or advice team at your chosen college or training provider. They handle funding queries regularly and can tell you which schemes apply to your course and circumstances.

You will typically need to provide proof of identity, evidence of your household income, and details of the course you plan to study. Processing times vary, so apply as early as possible to avoid delays in receiving any support you are entitled to.

For the most accurate information on current rates, eligibility thresholds and application processes, visit GOV.UK or the relevant government website for your nation. Your learning provider can also point you towards any additional funding, such as institutional bursaries or discretionary learner support funds.

Although the Adult Learning Grant no longer exists, financial help is still available for many adult learners. Taking time to research your options before you enrol can help you make the most of what is on offer.

The Next Step

Now that you have read through the advice above, you might want to put it into practice. Our Student Funding Eligibility Checker lets you identifies which grants, loans, and support schemes a student or family may qualify for based on their circumstances. Try it now →

65 questions

Ask Funding Education a Question

FundingEducation Editor 18/05/2026 at 9:18 am

@Tc Unfortunately the Adult Learning Grant was scrapped back in 2011, so it isn't an option anymore. For a Level 4/5 course you'd usually be looking at an Advanced Learner Loan, which covers tuition fees and you only repay once you're earning over the threshold. Worth checking if your training provider is on the approved list for that loan, as not all independent ones are. Also ask them directly about payment plans, as many split the fee monthly which can ease the drop in hours.

Tc 29/02/2024 at 7:49 am

I am looking to do an animal physio course of 3200 but I earn £22k unfortunately that doesn’t go far these days. I would be going down to one less day a week should I be able to do this course meaning I would then be earning less. Would I be eligible? It’s an independent training provider with chance to earn level 4/5 diploma.

Gem 26/02/2024 at 6:01 pm

Hi I'm looking at doing a level 2 dog grooming course but I'm on univsal credit and can not get it funded because it's level 2 the course is 1200 and the certificate 300 would I be able to get help with this

Yss 02/09/2020 at 8:08 pm

I’m trying to get help with a dog grooming course to start my own business, it’s 3000, would I be eligible

Phoenix 13/01/2020 at 7:06 pm

I have found an online course that I want to do, but I need higher maths and english to do it, I have found all the online courses which I can work around my part time job and children but I don't know how to go about getting funding for it

BigAl 10/01/2020 at 12:38 pm

Im currently off work with depression and my life has exploded meaning my relationship with my partner kids and family are all at risk unless i turn my lifecaround im desperate for help as dnt know what will happen if i keep going if you can offer ne information or help how i can gain some forward direction and give me some self direction into getting into a electrical course or plumbing as ive been off work for 6 months

Shell 15/08/2019 at 7:16 pm

I am currently doing a level 3 TA course online ... would this be something I can apply for?

Thanks for your help

Dios 22/07/2019 at 10:19 am

PLEASE CAN YOU REMOVE THE ADULT LEARNING GRANT INFORMATION. THE FUNDING CLOSED YEARS AGO.

THANKS

Nina 22/07/2019 at 10:16 am

I have called the provided support number 2 times and I was told that the Adult grant is no longer available, is it correct?

Zhala 09/07/2019 at 11:37 pm

Hi , my name is Zhala I’m doing teaching assistant level3 this september,I have two children am I eligible for grants

Vi 06/07/2019 at 10:14 am

I graduated last year with a degree in primary education but it didn't come with QTS. I have to now do my English, maths and science GCSE to be able to apply for my PGCE to teach. Is there any free GCSE courses?

Lyds 25/06/2019 at 12:02 pm

Hi am looking to enroll for a beauty therapy course, I have already qualified in Swedish massage and Indian Head massage, and looking to gain more qualifications.

Barbara 13/05/2019 at 1:57 pm

My daughter will be 21 this year and she works for specsavers. She wants to start the optical dispensing course this September. Would she be legible for funding? She lives at home and earn £12000 yearly.

zuby 14/04/2019 at 11:28 am

hi i want to study a course in higher education in Skills for the workplace 4 . But student fiance will not give me any funds will i be able to claim adult learning grant £30. My course is 2 years long at the university of wales. thanks

zuby 14/04/2019 at 11:19 am

hi i am interested in doing a course in certificate of higher Education in Skills for the workplace level 4 at university of wales trinity saint david birmingham. But student finance will not give me any funds for this course. will i be able to apply for a adult learning grant 30 pounds. My course is for 2years long. thanks

Stacey 10/04/2019 at 12:36 pm

Hi i am 32 and currently looking to study acupuncture with a view of practicing this therapy as a living. Im looking at a course which is accredited. Am i eligibke for any funding at all?

Freddie 03/01/2019 at 6:33 pm

Hi I am 25 years old. I am currently on universal credit been signed off work but I want to do a barbering course at college. Will I be able to get help with the funds for tj course and travel ?

Stephen 08/12/2018 at 9:00 pm

Hi I am 39 and am looking to do an nvq in beauty therapy level 2 and 3. Would I qualify for help with this? I am a full time carer on carers allowance and have mental health problems also.

Marj 26/11/2018 at 2:31 pm

I am on esa can I apply to do a course and get funding.

FundingEducation Editor 07/09/2018 at 11:27 am

You would have to speak to the course organisers directly. Turn2Us may be able to help also

caz 05/09/2018 at 5:46 pm

Hi, My daughter is 22 years old and has been accepted on a full time Science Access to Higher Education course. She has mental health issues and therefore is currently on ESA/PIP. She does not have to pay for this course as she has no education higher than GCSE's.However, she needs a lap top and several expensive text books. She also will have to pay for essential day trips etc. .Is she eligible to get a grant for her educational equipment?

D1989 29/08/2018 at 2:59 am

Hi, I’m 29 currently on maternity leave, planning to go back to work part time and with a joint household income of around £45,000. I am wanting to do at least a level 2 course in childcare is there any help I can receive to help me manage achieving this a juggling having kids?

Jo 15/08/2018 at 1:37 pm

I am married and earn £11000. My husband earns £50000. Am I eligible please?

Na 20/07/2018 at 12:46 pm

Hi,
I did not complete my secondary education and I am 37 yrs now, I felt left out by the time because of my education, I want to educate my self, Please give me some advice, I want to complete my education..

FundingEducation Editor 19/06/2018 at 9:43 am

The Turn2Us link here may help answer your question (as you have not given any background information regarding your particular circumstances).

Rhiannon 18/06/2018 at 12:10 pm

Hi I am 21 years old and I am going back to college in September to study an access to Higher Education course. I am currently on Universal Credit but this will be stopped when I attend college as it is Full time Education. I am very confused to what help I can receive towards equipment and travel costs whilst I find a part time job.

Jen 11/06/2018 at 11:19 pm

Hi, I'm starting a GCSE science course in September. I'm 41 years old and a single parent to two kids. I work part time, I'm wondering what help I can get to cover the cost of the course which is £800.

Joe 18/05/2018 at 3:54 pm

Hi, I'm 40 and unemployed I'm looking at going back to college and doing and plumbing course, I have to start at level 2 which there is a cost to, level 3 and above quality for advanced learner loans is there funding available for the level 2?

FundingEducation Editor 26/03/2018 at 11:22 am

You would be able to train part-time or in your spare-time. Much depends upon what type of counselling you wish to do. You can see more whichwhich may help. Or you can look online to see whether there are any courses that fit your requirements.

TINA 24/03/2018 at 7:34 am

I am single 56 year old professional work full time no dependents. I am in a low paid job with no prospects and want to undertake additional qualification ie counselling degree....i cannot afford to give up my job as i have a mortgage. Any advice on how to achieve this qualification please

Zoe 12/02/2018 at 3:26 pm

I'm a stay at home mum my husband works part time I really want to study for my nvq level 3 from home will I be eligible to study for this for free as I have no idea where to even start looking.

FundingEducation Editor 12/04/2017 at 1:54 pm

Please see gov.uk link here for more information which should answer your question.

Helen 11/04/2017 at 11:38 pm

Hi I've just left my job not able to claim benefits due to me handing my notice in would I be eligible for a grant as I want to continue with education to gain more qualifications to move onto higher acehivements to get into a good paid job thanks

GULNAAR 21/11/2016 at 9:46 pm

Hi i am currentlt doing a level 5 diploma in education and training and looking to see if i could get any sort of grant for help with my costs i am currently recieving benefits as i have 1 child aswell.

Lee 27/10/2016 at 4:26 pm

Hi, I'm 35 studying an electrical course and I am in receipt of benefits, I have been to my local job centre and they have been of very little help. I am in need of tools and equipment to complete the course and I am struggling to pay, am I entitled to any grants?

Thanks

Star 11/10/2016 at 11:42 pm

Hello I'm doing a part time teaching assistant level 2 course and wanted to apply for the ALG as I receive benefits I'm single parent with two children under 2 going to a library with them to use computer is not easy

OPS 05/10/2016 at 9:17 am

I am 25 yrs a Ugandan from Northern Uganda,i come from a poor family,my parents are both peasants, i have been admitted in Busitema University Faculty of Health Science to study bachelors in medicine and surgery in eastern Uganda, i am in my second year but i don't have some one to support me, my parents cannot support my education now because they are poor and have exhausted everything they had,am about to drop out because i don't have money to pay the tuition, i was admitted on private,i come from northern Uganda which is the poorest region because of the war which happened here,I would wish to study and become a doctor in my place and help the people because most doctors do not like working in my region,i am really in need of your help,or any one who can help me out of this situation.

Tessarg 01/09/2016 at 12:25 pm

Hi, I am 23 years old and will be studying a access to higher education in animal management course from the 13th of September. I have been looking for financial help to help me with the cost of my travel, I still live with my mum and help care for my older sister who is disabled and has Austism. We are a low income family who is already struggling, my college is unable to offer me help for travel.

shem ricky ogutu 10/07/2016 at 5:24 pm

am Kenyan 18 years of age from a family of 4 children, did well in final exam and already gotten a calling letter to join one of the universities in Kenya , to my surprise due to low economic kind of life in our family, my parents are requesting me to let the chance go because my followers are also in high school they are unable to manage. I am kindly appealing to your organization to help me per-sue this golden opportunity,i believe that if given chance ill make use of my time well to assist the coming generation. I have a calling letter to join for bachelor of arts special education, ready to submit if need arises for confirmation.

sophie 18/04/2016 at 2:22 pm

Would I be entitled to one to pay for my home courses

Daddyyankee 16/04/2016 at 2:41 am

Hi Im 26 and would like to get funding for a barber course nvq level 2. I asked at my local job center where I receive universal credit benefits as I'm unemployed and they told me they didn't think I'd be able to get funding for it, what do you think? How could I receive funding?

Vex 15/04/2016 at 6:52 pm

Hi I am 26 years old single parent to a 9 year old boy I am not currently working I want to go back to collage am I entitled to any help thankyou

FundingEducation Editor 15/04/2016 at 12:07 pm

I am sorry to hear this. I'm not sure there are any learning grants for equipment, you may have to approach your college directly to see if they can point you in the right direction.

sophie 14/04/2016 at 3:07 pm

Hi I'm 19 an going through bad social anxiety I had to give college up because I couldn't handle it but I want to learn beauty at home but it cost an I don't have any money to pay for it or the equipment I'd need am I entitled to a grant to pay for my home learning an equipment etc

Sarah 04/03/2016 at 3:09 pm

I'm in part time work, a ingle parent on working tax credit. Would I be able to get als for a nvq level 3 barbering course ?

FundingEducation Editor 09/07/2015 at 12:31 pm

@Diamond - I have included a link to Turn to Us here which should tell you all you need to know.

Diamond 06/07/2015 at 6:17 pm

Hi im about to start a plumbing course, im on income support with 1 child amd was wondering if i would be eligible for help with funding ?

toniyeo93 31/01/2015 at 7:10 pm

hi I am wanting to persue a career within the equestrian industry and need to complete several educational courses. Im 21 and currently unemployed would I be eligible for financial help?

FundingEducation Editor 27/10/2014 at 11:57 am

@BEE - Unfortunately, sometimes the fees for distance learning can be more expensive than the fees for on campus learning at certain universities. I suggest you talk directly to the university study support tutors if you are struggling, as there may be something they can do to help. I hope this helps.

BEE 25/10/2014 at 8:59 am

Iam 44 with 2 children and at the moment at full time in level 4 at the uni, but i am struggling to cope as i have to travel from manchester to leeds every day, so i have decide to do full time distant learning. will get help financialy

Thanks

nadolig 20/08/2014 at 5:34 pm

Hi I am starting my Level 3 Humanities course this year. I have been told conflicting things as to whether I can apply for ALG. I am currently in receipt of ESA. Can you please advise me. Thanks

Mumsworld 20/05/2014 at 6:32 pm

Hi

I'm looking at applying for the adult learning grant. I live in Lincoln and I will be commuting to Hull to study a degree in midwifery. The university don't pay commuting fees or money towards placements as I'm out the catchment area. I have applied for a bursary and looking at a student loan too. I have an adult dependant in me (my spouse has a brain injury) and two children under 6yrs. I will be entitled to child tax credits but will loose working tax credits as I won't be classed as 'working'. Between me and my spouse we will get pensions up to £16000 per year combined will this affect applying for this ALG? If not, could I request an application pack. Kind regards.

Sam.M 23/09/2013 at 4:18 pm

Hi. Im a 25 year old, stay at home, mother of 1. He is in primary school and his dad works full time. I would like to start a childcare course, working from home with ics. Am I entitled to an ALG loan at all. Thanks in advance.

Andeey 22/08/2013 at 4:41 pm

Ive just phoned up, ALG has stopped you need to talk to the college or learning provider about discretionary award or something like that

pinkie 21/03/2013 at 2:20 pm

Hi, Im 37 year old married mum of 4 and I have started Uni this week on a BSc Adult Nursing Degree, I live in Wales but Im in Uni in Manchester. My husband gets £12,000 a year Gross I have applied for a student loan would I be able to apply for ALG too or instead?

Angel 06/03/2013 at 5:09 pm

Hi I am 40 years old and want to do my level 3 professional cooking course at my college, where i have achieved level 2 C&G Diploma in professional cooking and got distinction.
I completed this in July 2012, my tutor wanted me to continue on to level 3, but I was unable to due to living finances.
I really want to do this, but am at moment on esa as recovering from a broken ankle which i did at work in september 2012.
I have a partner who earns £14000 on average a year but he is paying all the bills and i use my benefit to help with getting food.
I am scared to go for this as I dont want to stay on benefits but dont think i can afford to do it.
Please can some-one help

Vicky 20/11/2012 at 10:43 am

I am currently on maternity leave with my second child I'm 25 and looking to start collage doing a NVQ level 2 diploma in barbering would I be eligible for the grant mine and my husbands combined income is lower than £20,000

Blonde 23/09/2012 at 3:59 pm

I am a full time mature student,because of extenuating circumstances,I have to resubmit my modules this year,without attending lectures.
Student finance have only deposited loan in a/c,I have sent evidence of situation?
I have been issued with a court hearing for rent arrears,I have nothing to live on.
I desperately need help.

FBlogs 21/09/2012 at 11:39 am

"The Adult Learning Grant, or ALG, is in place to help adults who want to study be able to afford to do so. It is a non-repayable grant of up to £30 a week and is intended to help adult learners with the costs associated with returning to education."

"Those receiving benefits because they’re out of work are not eligible for the ALG. These disqualifying benefits include Jobseeker’s Allowance and Income Support."

So the very people who most need this help the most are not eligible, what a country we live in!

nazzy 20/09/2012 at 6:44 pm

i am 19 years old and i do access course. i would like to know if i am eligible for learning grant.
than you

hem 14/09/2012 at 6:11 pm

i would like to plumbing nvq 2 course right now i am in income based jobseekers allowance so if you could help me then it would be very grateful many thanks

Liz 04/09/2012 at 5:56 pm

Im a 30 year old mother of 3 young girls all at primery school ive just started collage doing an NVQ level 2 full time course in beauty my job seekers allowence has stopped because im at collage am I entitled to claim a grant. thankyou

richardmagus 21/06/2012 at 7:56 pm

hi* there!
I'm 60*& disabled!
I'm trying to obtain funding for,
an on-line video-course*
run by Rapidweaver-classroom*
it teaches web-design
if I can access it!
I can work part-time,
from home as a,
web-designer!
do you think I could apply for a,
ALG?
thanks*
Richard*
form's* to>
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Rowde
Wiltshire
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yash sharma 01/06/2012 at 8:06 am

hi i have passed in only three subject its french english and hindi am eligible to get a course koz i really want to study but i am stuck due to my results so if you can help it would be very helpfull for me
regards
k sharma

james 10/02/2012 at 9:37 am

Hi i am looking to get a learning grant but not sure how they work or if i would be eligable. The course is through The Open Study College. I would be gratefullif you could provide me with any information which could help. Thanks

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