If you’re studying a level 3 qualification, ask your college whether a grant from the adult skills fund is available instead. A grant does not need to be repaid.
Quick facts
- Age
- 19 or older
- Levels
- 3, 4, 5 or 6
- Minimum loan
- £300
- Covers
- Course fees only
- Access to HE
- Written off after a degree
Who can get it — the full rules
You must be 19 or older on the first day of your course.
Your course must be:
- a Level 3, 4, 5 or 6 qualification, for example A levels
- at an approved college or training provider in England
If you’re studying a level 4, 5 or 6 qualification on a course that starts on or after 1 January 2027, apply for student finance through your Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE) funding instead.
What it covers
It only covers your course fees, not your living costs. The minimum loan you can get is £300 and it’s paid directly to your college or training provider.
You can apply for up to 4 loans and you can get more than one at the same time.
Access to Higher Education courses
Student Finance England will ‘write off’ any outstanding Advanced Learner Loan balances you owe for an Access to HE course once you complete a higher education course. This means you do not have to repay it.
Paying it back
You’ll have to start repaying your loan when your income is over a certain amount (the ‘threshold’ amount).
You’ll be charged interest from the day you get the first payment.
You may also be eligible for money from the Advanced Learner Loan Bursary Fund if you need help with some costs while studying, for example childcare, travel or trips related to your course.
Common questions
Who can get an Advanced Learner Loan?
People 19 or older on a level 3 to 6 course at an approved college or training provider in England.
Is there a credit check?
No. Loan eligibility does not depend on your income and there are no credit checks.
What is the smallest loan?
£300.
Do I repay an Access to HE loan?
Not if you complete a higher education course. The balance is written off.