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What is the Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE)? 


The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a new UK government initiative designed to give adults flexible access to student finance throughout their lives. Whether you're planning a career change, aiming for progression, or simply want to learn something new, the LLE allows you to invest in your future at your own pace.

£39,160
Available funding over your lifetime
4 years
Equivalent full-time study
Jan 2027
Applications open
£25,000
Repayment threshold

Who is the LLE for?

The LLE is for anyone who wants to keep learning. It's ideal if you're:

Returning to education

Coming back to study after a break? The LLE makes it easier to pick up where you left off.

Changing career or upskilling

Ready for something new? Retrain in a different field or build on your existing skills.

Balancing life commitments

Juggling work, family, or other responsibilities? Study at a pace that fits your life.

Interested in short courses

Prefer to take things step by step? Study individual modules without committing to a full programme.

How much funding is available?

You can access funding equivalent to four years of undergraduate study, currently up to £37,000. Use your entitlement in the way that works best for you:

All at once

For a full qualification

Gradually over time

Spread across your career

Module by module

Build skills step by step

Different life stages

Return whenever you need

Student Finance

For more information on student finance visit the below link

Learn more

What can I study with the LLE?

Coming January 2027

At University Campus Doncaster, we’re offering LLE-funded opportunities in:

Digital
Engineering

From January 2027, these will include:

  • Short courses
  • Individual modules
  • Flexible study pathways

More detailed course information coming soon.

Common Questions

Not at all. You can:

  • Study part-time
  • Take one module at a time
  • Pause your studies and return later

In many cases, yes. The LLE is designed to support lifelong learning, including retraining and reskilling even if you’ve studied before.

Repayments work in a similar way to current student loans. You only start repaying once you earn above £25,000 per year.

This means you can focus on learning now and repay later, when you can afford to.

We’ll support you every step of the way. You can:

  • Explore eligible courses on our website (coming soon)
  • Speak to our admissions and student support teams
  • Apply for funding through the student finance system from September 2026

Make an enquiry about the LLE

LLE Enquiry