How much will my course cost?
You may qualify for:
- A FREE course
- Discounted fees
- Advanced Learning Loans
- Other financial help
- Be able to pay by instalments.
Contact Us or visit the Student Gateway and we will let you know your options. We will look at your individual situation so you will need to bring evidence of your income or benefits with you.
Worried about the cost of learning?
A large number of our courses are FREE. If you are a member of certain priority groups or want to improve specific skills you may not have to pay for your course or you may be eligible for a reduced fee. Examples of these groups include:
- Adults aged 19–23 without a full Level 2 or Level 3 qualification
- Adults studying English and Maths who don’t already have a GCSE (grade 4–9) or an O’ Level (grade C-A)
- Adults studying an Essential Digital Skills qualification who do not already have a qualification at Level 1
- Students enrolled on Life Skills courses with learning disabilities, difficulties and or autism
- Students aged 18-24 with an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP) enrolled onto a Supported Internship programme
- Students on Like Minds courses who have a referral from a GP or healthcare professional. Courses include yoga, art, and crafts to support mental health and wellbeing
(For more information about the cost of learning check out our Fee Exemption Policy – add link)
Ask if you fit into one of these groups when you apply.
Are you working?
The good news is that your course may be FREE if you have a low income and want to improve your skills. If you earn less than £34,194* a year and live in the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA). Or less than £25,750* a year and live outside of the WMCA you may be entitled to a free course. Bring evidence of your income when you apply.
*Subject to change for 2026-27 courses.
Are you Unemployed?
If you’re looking for work and receive a qualifying benefit* from the list below, you can study for FREE:
- Universal Credit (subject to earnings thresholds)
- Income based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income related Employment and Support Allowance
- Income Support
- Housing Benefit (where relevant)
Bring recent evidence of your benefits when you apply.
Come to an advertised enrolment event, open day, drop in to our Student Gateway or Contact Us to find out more.
Other Financial Help is available from our Discretionary Learning Support Fund for childcare costs, course trips, travel, books, equipment and materials).
* Conditions apply.
