Access to college and further education
This page is for asylum seekers, refugees, and other young people from forced migration backgrounds who want to study at college or sixth form in the UK.
We explain:
Whether you are allowed to study at college.
Whether your course is likely to be free or if you will have to pay.
How to choose a course and level.
How to apply and what documents to take.
Where to find extra funding and support.
Quick check: can I go to college and is it free?
Many young people we speak to are unsure whether they are allowed to study or whether they will have to pay for a course.
This flowchart gives a quick overview of who is usually eligible for government funding at college, depending on your age, your immigration status, and whether you receive support from the Home Office or local authority.
Start with your age.
Look for your immigration status.
Check whether you receive support from the Home Office (for example, NASS section 95 or section 4) or from your local authority (for example, if you are in care or a care leaver).
Follow the arrows to see if:
You can study at college, and
Your course is likely to be fully funded, partly funded, or not funded.
If a college tells you that you must have lived in the UK for three years and you are not sure this is correct for your status, contact us for advice. Policies change regularly and can be confusing, even for colleges.
How to use the chart
Click on the image above to open a larger view.
Your immigration status and what it means for college
How you pay for college, and sometimes whether you can enrol at all, depends on your immigration status and age. This section focuses on further education (FE) and sixth form, not university.
Use the option that is closest to your situation. If you are unsure which status you have, check your Home Office letters, ARC card, or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP).
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This includes:
People who have applied for asylum and are waiting for a decision.
People whose asylum claim has been refused, including some appeal rights exhausted (ARE) asylum seekers.
Can I study at college or sixth form?
In most cases, yes. As someone claiming asylum, you are allowed to study at college unless you have a “no study” bail condition on your Bail 201 letter.
If your claim has been refused and you are appeal rights exhausted, you may still be allowed to study in some situations, for example if:
You have appealed and no decision has been made for six months, or
You receive NASS Section 4 support, or
You are in care or a care leaver.
If you are not sure about a “no study” condition, or if a college is refusing to enrol you because of your status, get in touch with us or with a qualified immigration adviser.
Will my course be free?
If you are an asylum seeker, your course may be free if:
It is more than six months since you submitted your asylum claim and no decision has been made, or
You are receiving certain types of support from the Home Office or local authority.
If your claim has been refused, some courses may still be free if:
You have an appeal that has been outstanding for more than six months, or
You receive NASS Section 4 support, or
You receive support from your local authority (for example if you are in care or a care leaver).
English and maths courses (such as Functional Skills or GCSEs) are usually free for all ages if you have not already achieved a grade 4/C or above.
For more detail about bursaries, asylum support and grants, see Money and funding at college below.
Anything special I should know?
The “no recourse to public funds” condition does not apply to education funding – it covers things like some welfare benefits, not college funding.
Evidence of the support you receive (for example, Home Office letters, NASS letters, social worker letters) is essential. Take original copies to enrolment day.
If you cannot study at college right now, there are still ways to move forward in your education – see If you cannot study at college right now.
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This group includes:
Refugee status
Humanitarian protection
Indefinite leave to remain (ILR) or indefinite leave to enter
Can I study at college or sixth form?
Yes. You are allowed to study at FE college or sixth form in the same way as a British citizen.
Will my course be free?
You are usually treated the same as a British citizen for funding at college. This means:
If you are 16–18, the government normally pays for your course.
If you are 19–23, your first full Level 2 and first full Level 3 qualification (for example, some BTECs, A-levels, Access to HE) may be fully funded if the course is approved.
If you are 24+, you may need to pay for some Level 3 courses, often using an Advanced Learner Loan. You only start paying this loan back once you are earning above a certain amount.
English and maths up to Level 2 are usually free if you have not already got a GCSE grade 4/C or above.
Anything special I should know?
Some colleges may mistakenly say you must have three years’ residence. With refugee status, humanitarian protection or ILR this is usually not required for FE funding. If this happens, ask to speak to a manager or contact us.
Keep copies of any support letters from your local authority if you are in care or a care leaver, as these may help you access extra bursaries.
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This includes, for example:
Discretionary leave to enter or remain
Exceptional leave to enter or remain
Leave outside the rules
Ukraine Family Scheme
Ukraine Sponsorship Scheme (Homes for Ukraine)
Section 67 leave
Calais leave to remain
Stateless leave (for FE, sometimes treated like refugee status)
Child of a Turkish worker with ECAA rights
Can I study at college or sixth form?
Yes. With these types of leave you are normally allowed to study at FE college or sixth form.
Will my course be free?
Many first Entry Level, Level 1 and Level 2 courses are free, whatever your status, but you will still be assessed for eligibility.
With many of these statuses, you can be eligible for government funding and exempt from the three-year residency rule, especially if you are younger.
In some cases (for example stateless leave or child of a Turkish worker aged 19+), you may need to show that you have been ordinarily resident in the UK, EEA or certain other countries for three years before the course starts.
As with other groups, English and maths up to Level 2 are usually free if you have not already achieved them, and there may be support through bursaries and grants.
Anything special I should know?
Some colleges are cautious about enrolment if your leave expires before the end of the course. If you are refused a place for this reason, you can contact us for advice.
If you are in care or a care leaver, also see Money and funding at college for care leaver bursaries and pathway plans.
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If your immigration status does not appear in any of the sections above, you may still be able to study at college, but the rules about funding can be complicated.
Organisations that can help you understand your options include:
UKCISA – national advice about fee status and student support across the UK.
British Council – Study UK – information about studying in the UK, including as an EU or international student.
Coram Migrant Children’s Project – legal advice for young people and families on immigration and education.
You can also contact us directly. Even if we cannot give detailed immigration advice, we can help you understand the education system and think about your next steps.
Choosing the right course and level
“Further education” normally means study after the age of 16, that is below university level. You can study at:
A further education (FE) college
A sixth form college
Some training providers or adult education centres
FE colleges are for people of many different ages and backgrounds, including adults. Sixth form colleges usually focus on 16–19 year-olds.
Questions to ask when choosing a course
When you are choosing a course, it can help to ask yourself:
What job or kind of work do I want to do in the future?
What subjects or skills do I need for that job?
What level am I ready for now?
Is the course full-time or part-time? Which is realistic for me?
How will I pay for the course, travel and materials?
Can I visit the college or talk to someone before I apply?
Careers advisers at colleges can help you think through these questions. Some charities and local services also offer careers advice.
In the UK each qualification has a level.
Entry level: for people who are new to a subject or to learning in English.
Level 1: basic certificates that prepare you for work or further study.
Level 2: often similar to GCSE level.
Level 3: similar to A-levels. This includes some BTECs and Access to HE courses.
You do not have to start at the bottom. Colleges will look at your previous education, English level, and sometimes your work or life experience to decide which level is right for you.
Understanding levels
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An Access to Higher Education Diploma is a Level 3 course designed for adults (usually 19+) who want to go to university but do not have the usual qualifications.
It is recognised by many universities and is often equivalent to three A-levels.
Courses exist in subjects like Nursing, Social Science, Law, Business and Art and Design.
Many colleges offer full-time Access courses, sometimes with the option to study GCSE English and maths alongside.
If you are over 19, have finished high school in your home country and have a good level of written English, an Access course might be right for you.
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BTECs are vocational qualifications that focus on practical learning in a particular area, like health and social care, business, engineering, sport, art and design, childcare or IT.
BTEC Firsts (Entry to Level 2) introduce you to a vocational area and can lead to further study or work.
BTEC Nationals (Level 3) are often accepted by universities and employers and can be studied alone or alongside A-levels.
Assessment is usually through assignments and projects, not only exams.
BTECs can suit you if you prefer practical study linked closely to real jobs.
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National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) are based on practical work tasks and are often taken while you are working or on a placement.
There are different levels. You usually work your way up.
You must normally be over 16 and have the right to work.
You are assessed on whether you can do particular tasks to the standard required in a job.
NVQs are a good option if you already know what job you want and can get experience in that area.
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ESOL courses are for people whose first language is not English and who want to improve their English for everyday life, work or further study.
Courses cover speaking, listening, reading and writing.
You usually have to pass each level before moving to the next one.
ESOL can often be combined with another subject, such as maths, IT or business skills.
ESOL is available for 16–18-year-olds and for adults. It can be a good starting point if you are new to English or have had a break from education.
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An apprenticeship is a way to work and study at the same time.
You spend most of your time working for an employer and some time studying (often at college).
You are paid a wage, although this is often lower than a full employee.
Entry requirements vary. Some apprenticeships ask for GCSEs or Level 2 qualifications.
You usually need to be over 16 and have the right to work to do an apprenticeship.
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If you are aged 14–16 you may be thinking about secondary school rather than college.
In England, school is compulsory between 5 and 16. In the last two years of school, most students study for GCSEs.
After 16, you must still be in education, training or work with training until you are 18, but this can be at school, college, with a training provider or on an apprenticeship.
If you are 16 and have very limited English, it is sometimes better to study ESOL at a college rather than joining school for one year. There are different pathways, and we or your local college can help you compare them.
How to apply and enrol at college
Enrolment day is usually your first formal visit to the college before your course starts. On this day, staff will:
Check your identity and immigration documents.
Look at your previous qualifications and English level.
Make sure you meet the course requirements.
Explain any fees and financial support.
Officially register you as a student and often give you a student ID card.
For asylum seekers and refugees, it is important to ask to speak to the widening participation coordinator, hardship fund coordinator, or someone in student support who understands funding rules for people with different immigration statuses.
What is enrolment?
The FE academic year usually runs from late August / early September to the following July.
Many colleges open applications from around January for courses that start in August or September.
Popular courses fill up quickly, so apply as early as you can.
Open days are a good way to visit the college, see facilities, and ask questions before you apply.
Check each college’s website for exact dates and online application forms.
When should I apply?
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Take as many of the following as you can:
Proof of identity and immigration status
ARC card, or
Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), or
If you do not have these, your Bail 201 letter plus a letter from your solicitor with your photograph attached.
Proof of support
Letters from the Home Office or Migrant Help showing NASS Section 95 or Section 4 support.
ASPEN card and recent support letters.
Letters from your local authority or social worker if you are in care or a care leaver.
Letters about benefits such as Universal Credit, if relevant.
Address
Tenancy agreement or other proof of address.
Previous qualifications
Certificates and transcripts from your home country.
Any UK qualifications you have already gained.
These documents help the college place you on the right course and may help you get fee waivers or bursaries.
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Many students from a forced migration background are unable to prove their previous qualifications because certificates were lost or destroyed.
If this is your situation:
Explain it clearly when you apply and on enrolment day.
Ask to speak to the widening participation coordinator or another senior staff member.
Colleges should have other ways to assess your level, such as English and maths tests, or talking with you about your previous studies.
If you still have certificates but they are in another language, the UK agency formerly known as UK NARIC can compare them to UK levels for a fee. Sometimes small grants can help with this cost.
Money and funding at college
The rules about funding are detailed and change over time, but there are some common patterns that can help you start planning.
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16–18 year-olds
The government usually pays for your course fees at college or sixth form, whatever your immigration status, if you meet basic residency rules or have certain protections (for example refugee status, humanitarian protection, some other listed forms of leave).
English and maths up to Level 2 are normally free if you have not yet achieved a GCSE grade 4/C or above.
19–23 year-olds
The government may pay for your first full Level 2 and first full Level 3 course if it is on an approved list.
If you already have a Level 3 qualification and want to do another, you may need to pay, often using an Advanced Learner Loan.
24 and over
Some courses are still fully funded, especially English, maths and basic skills.
Many Level 3 and above courses require payment, often through an Advanced Learner Loan.
Exactly what is funded depends on your age, income, benefits, immigration status and the type of course. Colleges should check this for you, but it is helpful if you already understand the basics.
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Many colleges have extra financial support to help with the hidden costs of studying, such as travel, equipment and lunch.
Examples include:
16–19 bursary fund: if you are in care, a care leaver, or on a low income, you may be able to get up to £1,200 per year to help with costs linked to study.
Discretionary bursaries: colleges can give extra help to students who would otherwise struggle, based on their own criteria.
Learner Support (for 19+): if you are over 19 and facing financial difficulties, you may be able to get help with things like accommodation and travel.
Ask the student services or bursary team at your college what support they offer and how to apply. Be prepared to show evidence of your income, benefits or support.
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If you are looked after by a local authority or a care leaver, you should have a pathway plan that covers your education and training.
The pathway plan should clearly set out your education goals (for example, going to college, then university in the future) and the support the local authority will provide.
You should be involved in creating and reviewing the plan, and you should have a copy you can understand.
Local authorities often have extra support for young people in care or care leavers who stay in education, such as help with travel, equipment or living costs.
If you are in this situation, talk to your social worker or personal adviser and make sure your college or sixth form knows your status, as it may affect bursaries and fee waivers.
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If you are an asylum seeker or refused asylum seeker and you receive NASS support:
You may get asylum accommodation and/or a cash allowance loaded onto an ASPEN card.
In some cases, this support can help you meet funding rules for college, even if your immigration status on its own would not.
You may also qualify for an HC2 certificate, which helps you access free NHS healthcare, prescriptions and dental care.
Always bring your NASS letters, ASPEN card and any support letters to enrolment. Ask to speak to someone who understands how asylum support interacts with college funding.
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If you are not eligible for government funding, or you need extra help with costs such as laptops, books, travel or exam fees, you may be able to apply for grants from charities.
Some grants are for refugees and asylum seekers.
Some are for care leavers or people who have experienced homelessness.
Others are for people studying particular subjects, following certain religions, or living in specific areas.
Not every grant will be suitable for you. Always read the eligibility criteria carefully before applying.
If you cannot study at college right now
You may not be able to study at college at the moment because of your immigration status, age, health or other responsibilities. This can feel very frustrating, but there are still ways to move forward in your education.
Options can include:
Informal English classes at charities, community centres, libraries, or faith groups.
Online learning, including free courses to practise English, IT, and other skills.
Volunteering, which can help you build skills, confidence and references for future study or work.
Short community courses in areas such as IT, art, cooking or budgeting.
Remember that what you do now – whether study, volunteering, or other activities – can still be helpful for your future education and work. If you are not sure what is realistic for you, we can help you think through options.
Looking after your wellbeing
Studying – or trying to study – while dealing with uncertainty, trauma, separation from family, and new systems can be very hard.
It is important to get support for your mental health and wellbeing.
Ways to find support include:
Your college or sixth form
Most colleges have wellbeing or counselling services for students. Ask at student services or talk to your tutor.Your GP (family doctor)
They can refer you to local NHS mental health services, such as CAMHS for under 18s or adult mental health teams.Helplines and online support
NHS: national list of mental health helplines and resources.
Samaritans: free, confidential 24-hour helpline on 116 123.
Talk Off The Record: online audio and video resources in different languages for young refugees and asylum seekers.
Our team believes every young person deserves to flourish. We use activities and tools to build wellness and can refer you to specialist services where needed. We can also help you find groups and activities that build connection and belonging, such as sports, music, arts or mentoring.
Reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. You are not alone in this.
Other organisations that can help
These organisations can offer more information, advice or practical support:
UKCISA: advice about fee status and eligibility for student support across the UK.
Refugee Council: information and support on education, housing, health and other issues affecting refugees and asylum seekers.
Coram Children’s Legal Centre (Migrant Children’s Project): free legal information and advice for children and young people on immigration and education.
Become: if you are care-experienced, Become has guides and advice about accessing and funding education.
RefuAid: support with language tuition, education and employment for people with a background of forced migration.
Student Action for Refugees (STAR): student-led groups campaigning for change and supporting refugees at universities and in communities.
Depending on where you live, there may also be local organisations offering ESOL classes, mentoring or advice.
Workshops and how to contact REUK
We regularly run free workshops on:
How education works in the UK.
Pathways into college and university.
Funding and practical steps.
If you would like individual advice about your situation, you can contact our Education Access team.
We can help you understand your options, prepare for college applications, and think about your longer-term education plans.