Lifelong Learning Entitlement at UCEN Manchester
More flexibility to learn, develop and move your career forward
Your route through higher education doesn’t have to look the same as everyone else’s.
From January 2027, the Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE) is changing the way student finance works in England, giving eligible learners more flexibility to study throughout their lives. Alongside funding full qualifications, the new system will allow eligible students to access funding for selected individual modules and shorter periods of study.
Whether you’re taking your next step after college, returning to education, looking to develop new skills or thinking about a change in career, the LLE could give you more choice over what, when and how you study.
What is the Lifelong Learning Entitlement?
The Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE) is a new student finance system for eligible courses and modules starting from 1 January 2027.
It brings together higher education student finance and Advanced Learner Loans for level 4, 5 and 6 qualifications into a single funding system, designed to make it easier to access education and training at different stages of your life.
For new eligible learners, the LLE provides access to a Tuition Fee Loan entitlement of up to £39,160, equivalent to four years of study based on the maximum tuition fee for the 2026/27 academic year.
Depending on your circumstances and how you study, you may also be able to access a Maintenance Loan and additional financial support.
What can I study at UCEN Manchester?
UCEN Manchester is one of the education providers approved for LLE modular funding.
Under the government's current arrangements, modular LLE funding can support modules from approved Higher Technical Qualifications, as well as eligible level 4, 5 and 6 modules connected to full level 6 qualifications in specified priority subject areas.
UCEN Manchester's specific LLE-funded modules will be listed here as they become available.
Am I eligible for LLE funding?
Eligibility will depend on a number of factors, including:
- the course or module you want to study
- the number of credits you study
- your age
- your nationality and residency status
- previous higher education study and funding.
For most eligible courses, students normally need to study between 30 and 180 credits in an academic year to receive student finance.
We recommend checking the latest eligibility criteria before making decisions about funding your studies.
How do I apply?
Applications for LLE funding for eligible courses and module starting from January 2027 onwards are now open.
You'll apply for your student finance and manage your funding through the student finance system. Before applying, you'll need to check:
1. Your chosen course or module is eligible for LLE funding.
2. You meet the student finance eligibility requirements.
3. How much of your LLE entitlement you have available, particularly if you have previously received funding for higher education.
Your learning. Your next step.
Learning doesn't have to happen at one time, in one way or at one stage of your life.
At UCEN Manchester, we're focused on giving you practical, career-relevant higher education in the heart of Greater Manchester. With the introduction of the Lifelong Learning Entitlement, you could have more flexibility to build the skills you need, when you need them.
Whether you're starting out, stepping up or changing direction, your next step could start here.
Ready to explore your options?