How Government-Funded Courses Work
Every year, the UK government allocates billions of pounds to fund adult training. Here's exactly how it reaches you — at no cost.
Tell us about you
Share your goals and situation in 2 minutes.
Check eligibility
We confirm whether you qualify for funding.
Choose your course
Pick from accredited, government-funded providers.
Start learning free
Enroll directly — no fees, ever.
The Adult Education Budget (AEB)
The AEB is funded by the Department for Education and distributed to Further Education colleges, private training providers, and local authorities. Its purpose is simple: to fund learning for adults who want to improve their skills and progress in life or work.
Providers receive money directly from the government, which means they can deliver courses to eligible adults without charging them a penny. The AEB covers a wide range of qualifications — from Level 1 basic skills through to Level 3 Advanced qualifications.
Free Courses for Jobs
Launched in April 2021, Free Courses for Jobs is a separate government programme designed specifically to help adults aged 19 and over who do not already hold a Level 3 qualification gain their first one for free.
This initiative targets sectors with high employer demand — including health and social care, digital technology, education, and green industries.
Who qualifies?
Age
You must be aged 19 or over at the start of the course.
Residency
You must have lived in England for at least 3 years.
Nationality
UK/Irish citizens, EU nationals with settled/pre-settled status, or relevant visa holders.
Prior qualifications
Level 2 courses are available to most. Level 3 requires no existing Level 3 qualification.
What subjects are available?
Is there any cost at all?
For the vast majority of eligible learners, the answer is no. The government pays the full course fee directly to the training provider.
Check My Eligibility →Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be unemployed to qualify?
No. Many funded courses are available to adults in work, self-employed, or out of work. The key requirements are age (19+) and residency in England.
Will the qualification be recognised by employers?
Yes. All qualifications on our platform are regulated by Ofqual and awarded by nationally recognised bodies such as NCFE CACHE and TQUK. Employers across England accept them.
How long does enrolment take?
Most enrolments are completed within a week. You'll typically need to provide ID, proof of address, and your National Insurance number.
Can I study while working full-time?
Absolutely. The majority of funded courses are designed for flexible study — evenings, weekends, or self-paced online learning around your existing commitments.
What if I already have a Level 2 qualification?
You may still be eligible for free Level 3 courses through Free Courses for Jobs, provided you don't already hold a full Level 3 qualification.