Applications open for new Lifelong Learning Entitlement student funding in England
Applications for the Lifelong Learning Entitlement, a new student funding system in England, are now open to people starting courses between 1 January and 31 August 2027. The Student Loans Company confirmed the launch, and Derek Ross, Executive Director for HE/FE reform, said the system is meant to let people study throughout their working lives. The system replaces the old undergraduate funding route and also covers some postgraduate and other courses.
What does it mean?
If you are starting a university or certain postgraduate course in England between January and August 2027, you can now apply for student loans under this new system. The loans cover tuition fees and living costs, and you only start paying them back after you finish or leave your course.
Who is affected?
Students in England starting eligible courses between 1 January and 31 August 2027, and those planning to apply for student finance.
What changes?
Before, undergraduate students in England applied through Student Finance England under the previous system; now students starting in early to mid 2027 can apply for the Lifelong Learning Entitlement instead.