Financial Support
At Oaklands we do our best to make sure that we make learning affordable for you and we work hard to keep our fees to a minimum. Everyone's circumstances are different, and it is the job of our experienced staff to assess your personal situation and offer you advice and support where you are eligible.
Get Advice
Our Student Advisors are the best place to check in with any questions or concerns about coming to College. They'll be able to discuss your situation and guide you further. The support available to you will depend on a number of factors such as your age, status, existing qualifications and whether the course is funded or full cost. Try not to make any assumptions about what you are or aren't eligible for until you have spoken to our team - their expertise will give you the advice you need.
Help Funding Your Course
Whether you have to pay tuition fees for your course will depend on a number of factors, the most significant of which will be your age. Below highlights a brief outline of the tuition fees applicable to different age brackets. Student Advice will be able to give you full details tailored to your personal circumstances, do check in with them to clarify which details are right for you.
Under 19
Full and part time students ages 16-18 on 31 August 2021 are exempt from tuition fees for all full time courses, but will have to pay for material fees if applicable.
Aged 19+
If you are aged 19+ on 31st August 2021 a tuition fee may apply, but you could do this by taking out an Advanced Learning Loan. You will have to pay material costs if applicable.. In some circumstances, depending on your qualifications or benefits fees may be waived . Student Advice will be able to explain and advise if you may be eligible.
The National Skills Fund, as part of the Lifetime Skills Guarantee which was announced by the Prime Minister in September 2020, aims to help adults to train and gain the valuable skills they need to improve their job prospects. This additional funding will give adults aged 19 and over, without a full Level 3 qualification (equivalent to an advanced technical certificate or diploma, or A levels), free access to fully-funded level 3 courses.
Bursary Fund
Oaklands College provides bursaries for both 16-18 and 19+ year old students who have a household income below £29,250. There are different types of bursary available which have different criteria.
Advanced Learner Loan
Making the decision to return to education can be daunting but the Advanced Learner Loan means that course fees shouldn't be a barrier to your learning, no matter what your current financial situation.Â
Higher Education Bursary
All students joining a Higher Education programme are liable for tuition fees. There are no concessions available however you can apply for a Student Loan to cover your tuition fee. You may also be eligible for a Maintenance Loan. The College also has an HE Bursary and students can apply for this.
Additional Financial Support
Depending on your circumstances, you may be eligible for additional support in the form of discounted travel, free meals or help with childcare during your time at College.Â
National Skills Fund
The National Skills Fund is available to adults over 19 who do not already have a Level 3 qualification and offers fully funded Level 3 courses.
