Publicly Funded Further Education/Higher Education (PF FE/HE)

A NEW COMMITMENT TO THE FUNDING OF FURTHER AND HIGHER EDUCATION FOR SERVICE LEAVERS

Background

The Government announced to Parliament on 17 July 2008 a package of cross government support to Armed Forces personnel. One of the measures commits to providing Service Leavers with access to a first full Level three (GCE A level or vocational equivalent), or a first higher education qualification (a foundation degree or a first undergraduate degree or equivalent) free from tuition fees.  MOD and the relevant national education authority in England, Scotland or Wales pay for the tuition fees in full rather than the individual making a contribution towards the cost.

Before making an application Service Leavers are advised to first check the national position on existing support with the relevant national education authority (e.g. in England BIS or SFA). There may already be existing ‘free’ provision by another route e.g. those aged 25 years or under are already entitled to a first level 3 in England; free entitlement for all who fulfil the residency requirements on degree/HND level courses in Scotland; Welsh residents also attract some support for FE and HE provision.  It makes sense for SL to explore alternative routes before considering support and access through the ELC ‘top up’ scheme but there are safety measures in place to prevent any possibility of double funding.

CLAIMANTS PLEASE NOTE: YOU ARE REQUIRED TO SUBMIT A CLAIM FOR EACH ACADEMIC YEAR OF THE COURSE. ONLY ONE YEAR OF STUDY SHOULD BE ENTERED ONTO EACH CLAIM FORM.