Some of our short professional development courses start from just £30, but for those that cost a little more, there are several adult course funding options available. Whatever your reason for starting out on a new course, we’re here to ensure that funding doesn’t get in the way of you pursuing your passion.
Take a look below at some of the options that could be available to you.
Advanced Learner Loan
Advanced Learner Loans have been designed to help adults aged 19+ fund courses at colleges. Loan eligibility does not depend on your income and there are no credit checks. Here are some quick FAQs covering what you need to know:
1. Am I eligible for a loan?
You are eligible for a loan if you are:
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Aged 19 years or older on the first day of your course
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Studying in England, with a training provider or college who offers the 19+ loan scheme in conjunction with the SFA, such as The Sheffield College
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Studying for a course that meets the approved criteria at Levels 3, 4, 5 and 6
Please note if you are aged 19-23 and this is your first full Level 3 course you are legally entitled to full adult course funding and will not need to take out a loan.
2. What qualifications does the loan cover?
Adult course funding covers the cost of the following qualifications:
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Maximum of 4 full A Levels
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Access to Higher Education Diplomas
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Vocational qualifications (including technical and professional qualifications at Levels 3, 4, 5 and 6)
If you’re unsure whether the qualification you wish to apply for is covered by the 19+ Advanced Learner Loan you can contact one of our advisors who will be able to confirm this for you. Please call 0114 260 2600 or email info@sheffcol.ac.uk for more information.
3. Is there an age limit for the loan?
As long as you are aged 19+, there is no upper age limit - anyone can apply.
4. How do I repay the loan?
Repayments will be automatically deducted from your income through the tax system from the April after you complete or leave the course.
Please note payments will only be deducted if your income is more than £2,143 per month. Repayments will be 9% of your income over the monthly threshold of £2,143. For example:
- Your annual income is £28,800 and you are paid a regular monthly wage. This means that each month your income is £2,400 (£28,800 divided by 12). This is over the Plan 2 monthly threshold of £2,143.
Your income of £2,400 is £257 over the threshold of £2,143. You will pay back £23 (9% of £257) each month.
Student Loan
If you are hoping to start one of our university level courses, you may be eligible for a Student Loan to cover the cost of your tuition fees. Support for this can be easily accessed from The Student Loans Company for any of our university level courses.
If you apply for tuition fee support, The Student Loans Company will pay your course tuition fees directly to us, removing the hassle of you having to deal with any payments.
Financial Support Funds
As a student at The Sheffield College, you may also be eligible for financial support to help you with the other necessities of studying. This could include things like:
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Travel to and from College
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Essential course-related costs such as books, equipment and uniform
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Childcare
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Exam fees
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Registration to professional bodies
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And much more
