Different types of funding for adult education

The good news is that there are a range of organisations and funding opportunities that may be able to help with course fees, study materials, travel, equipment and other essential costs. While eligibility varies, it's always worth exploring the support available before deciding that further study is out of reach. 

Turn2us is a UK charity that helps people access financial support through its free Grants Search. Rather than providing most grants directly, Turn2us allows you to search hundreds of charitable funds that may be able to help with education, training, hardship or living costs. 

The website also offers benefits information and online tools to help you check whether you're entitled to additional financial support. 

Find out more:  

The Thomas Wall Trust offers grants of up to £1,500 to eligible adults who want to complete accredited vocational training (up to Level 3) to improve their employment prospects. 

Funding may contribute towards: 

• Course fees 

• Travel costs 

• Childcare 

• Equipment and learning materials 

• Other essential study-related expenses 

Applicants must meet the Trust's eligibility criteria, including being on a low income and experiencing barriers to employment. 

Find out more: https://www.thomaswalltrust.org.uk/ 

If you're aged 16 to 30, The King's Trust may be able to help you take your next step into education, training or employment. 

Its Development Awards can help cover the cost of accredited courses (up to Level 3), along with essential expenses such as travel, equipment, work clothing and childcare where these are needed to help you achieve your goals. 

Find out more: https://www.kingstrust.org.uk/ 

The Sidney Perry Foundation supports students experiencing financial hardship who are studying at a recognised UK college or university. 

Grants are intended to help students continue their studies and may contribute towards essential education and living costs where financial need has been demonstrated. 

Find out more: https://www.sidneyperryfoundation.org.uk/ 

If you have a disability or long-term health condition, the Snowdon Trust offers grants to support disabled students in further and higher education. 

Funding can help with disability-related study costs that are not covered by statutory funding, including specialist equipment, assistive technology and other support to help you succeed in your studies. 

Find out more: https://www.snowdontrust.org/ 

Lightning Reach is a free online platform that helps people find grants, benefits and other financial support in one place. 

By completing a single application, you can be matched with funding opportunities that suit your personal circumstances, making it quicker and easier to identify the support you may be eligible for. 

Find out more: https://www.lightningreach.org/ 

Many people are surprised to discover they are eligible for financial support. Some funding is based on income, while other grants are available because of your career background, where you live, your age, a disability, or other personal circumstances. 

Before paying for a course yourself, take some time to explore the options available. A small amount of research could make your learning journey much more affordable. 

If you're considering one of our courses and would like advice about possible sources of funding, please don't hesitate to get in touch. We're always happy to point you in the right direction and help you explore the support that may be available. 

Please note that eligibility criteria, funding amounts and application deadlines vary between organisations. We recommend checking each provider's website for the most up-to-date information before applying.