Free Courses in England: New Eligibility Rule Changes

Published on:

July 31, 2025

Author:

Lois French

Thought you couldn’t get a free course in the UK? If you live in England, that may no longer be the case, thanks to a new rule change.

Big changes are on the way, designed to help even more people living in England access fully funded online qualifications. If you’ve been told in the past that you weren’t eligible, it’s time to take another look.

Here’s what’s changing and how to make sure you don’t miss your chance!

The eligibility criteria before

Until now, most learners needed to have lived in the UK for at least 3 years.

This 3-year residency rule meant many recent arrivals, even those working or raising families here, couldn’t access this government-funded support.

What’s changing on August 1st?

From August 1st, the three-year residency rule will be removed.

This means:

If you’re over 19 and currently living in England, you may now be eligible for a free online course, no matter how long you’ve lived here.

This update is part of a wider push to make adult education more inclusive and accessible to people building their lives in England.

How does this affect you?

These changes are especially relevant if:

  • You’re new to England
  • You’ve been turned away from funded courses in the past
  • You’re on a visa or residency route but not yet settled
  • You weren’t sure you qualified before

If you were previously told you were not eligible, now is the time to check again.

How do I join?

While you can’t start your course until after August 1st, you can get ahead.
Here’s how:

  • Step 1: Sign up for your Priority Pass
  • Step 2: We’ll notify you as soon as courses go live
  • Step 3: You’ll be matched with a course provider and can begin learning

Getting your Priority Pass now means you won’t miss out when demand increases after launch.

Ready to claim your Priority Pass?

Be first in line when the eligibility changes on August 1st.

Click below to register and reserve your spot early…

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Lois French, Author

About the author, Lois French

Lois is a marketing professional with a background in digital engagement, learner outreach, and customer communication.

Published on:

July 31, 2025

Author:

Lois French

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