Learners aged 19 or over can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to help pay the fees charged by colleges and training providers for courses at Level 3 and above. (Learners aged 19-23 without a first full Level 3 will still qualify for fee remission for a Level 3 course as this will still be funded by the Government.)

If you take out a loan to pay your fees for a Access to HE Diploma and then go on to complete a degree, your Advanced Learner Loan is written off, and you don't have to pay it back.

Getting a Loan doesn't depend on your household income and there's no credit check. You won't have to pay anything back until you're earning over £21,000 a year. Once you earn over this amount you pay back 9% of the earnings you receive above this figure. The minimum loan amount is £300.

Do I qualify?

To qualify you must be:

• Aged 19 or over on the first day of your course (there's no upper age-limit).
• Living in the UK on the first day of your course and have lived in the UK, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man for three years immediately before this.
• Studying with a college or training organisation in England approved for public funding.
• Enrolling on an eligible course at level 3 and above which includes: A levels, Access to HE Diplomas, and other Diplomas and Certificates.

How does it work?

The applications, assessment, payments and repayments of loans will be administered by Student Finance England. The same organisation provides financial support for HE students. The loan will be paid directly to your college or training provider to cover the fees charged for your course.

Loan repayments are collected through the tax system and will only start when the individual has left their course, entered repayment and is earning more than £21,000 a year. Any outstanding balance on a loan will be written off after 30 years.

Applying is easy

You can apply for a loan now for 2017-2018 courses.

We will provide you with the essential information you will need from us to complete your application, such as the course fees and course start and end dates. Please note you should contact the centre you intend to study at to get the information you will need to apply for a loan for one of their courses, as the information is different for each provider.

You can find more information and apply online on the Advanced Learner Loans webpage.

You could also speak to us for advice by phoning 0191 277 3520 or emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Making the right choice

It is important you consider your own circumstances and look into all options for paying for your course before choosing to take out a loan.

You can get independent financial advice from the Money Advice Service.