Choosing a degree
Studying a degree at 30, 40 or 50
In the UK there's no age limit for starting a degree. Many people study while they work and look after their family, and there's support designed for them. This is how it's done.
In 30 seconds
- For courses starting before 1 January 2027, the Tuition Fee Loan has no upper age limit. If you are 60 or over at the start of the first academic year, eligible full-time living-cost support is up to £4,582 in 2026/27, depending on household income. Most courses starting on or after 1 January 2027 use the Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE). You must be under 60 on the first day of the course to apply for a Tuition Fee Loan. At 60 or over, an additional living-cost loan may be available: we review this with you.
- If you haven't studied for years, a Foundation Year or Access to HE prepares you to get in.
- Many degrees concentrate classes into about 2 days a week.
- If you have children or other dependants, there's extra support that you don't have to repay.
How to get in without recent grades
Universities value your work and life experience, not just your grades. There are two common routes for people who haven't studied for a while:
- Foundation Year: a preparation year within the degree itself, at the university.
- Access to HE: a one-year course at a college, designed for adults.
We explain the differences in Foundation Year or Access to HE.
How to fit it in
Many degrees designed for adults organise classes into about 2 days a week, and you do the rest of your study at your own pace. That way you can keep working. We help you find the ones that fit your timetable.
A tip: before you start, plan your week in writing: your class days, your study hours and who helps you at home. It'll give you peace of mind, and it shows at interview.
The money
If you live in England with the right status, Student Finance can pay your tuition fees and lend you money to live on. You only repay it if you earn more than £25,000 a year (how it's repaid).
- For courses starting before 1 January 2027, the Tuition Fee Loan has no upper age limit. If you are 60 or over at the start of the first academic year, eligible full-time living-cost support is up to £4,582 in 2026/27, depending on household income. Most courses starting on or after 1 January 2027 use the Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE). You must be under 60 on the first day of the course to apply for a Tuition Fee Loan. At 60 or over, an additional living-cost loan may be available: we review this with you.
- For courses starting before 1 January 2027, the Tuition Fee Loan has no upper age limit. If you are 60 or over at the start of the first academic year, eligible full-time living-cost support is up to £4,582 in 2026/27, depending on household income. Most courses starting on or after 1 January 2027 use the Lifelong Learning Entitlement (LLE). You must be under 60 on the first day of the course to apply for a Tuition Fee Loan. At 60 or over, an additional living-cost loan may be available: we review this with you.
- Having studied before doesn't rule you out: it depends on what you studied and the course. We look at it with you.
Support if you have a family
As well as the loan, there's support that doesn't have to be repaid, depending on your income (2026/27 figures):
| Support | Who it's for | Up to |
|---|---|---|
| Childcare Grant | If you pay for registered childcare | £199.62/week (1 child) · £342.24 (2 or more) |
| Parents' Learning Allowance | If you have dependent children | £50 to £2,024 a year |
| Adult Dependants' Grant | If an adult depends on you financially | £3,545 a year |
| Disabled Students' Allowance | If you have a disability or a health condition | Depending on what you need |
Frequently asked questions
Will I be the oldest in the class?
Probably not. On degrees with timetables for adults, most students work and have families.
I haven't studied for 20 years. Will I keep up?
Yes. Universities have support for students returning to study: study skills, academic writing and tutorials.
What if my English isn't perfect?
Many universities assess your English with their own test or at interview. Take our English test to find out your starting point.
Official sources (checked on 25/10/2026): GOV.UK · Student finance · GOV.UK · Childcare Grant · GOV.UK · Parents' Learning Allowance · GOV.UK · Adult Dependants' Grant · GOV.UK · Disabled Students' Allowance.
