Website of the UK government

Qualifications and courses for over 50s

Late learning can be fun and give you the chance of a skills boost. Why not make the most of your free time by learning a language, pursuing your hobby via a wine or gardening course, or investigating work-based learning or an academic degree?

• Qualifications and courses for over 50s

Search for a course

You can find the contact details for colleges and training providers that suit your needs and get in touch with them directly.

• Find a course or college

Apply for an adult learning course

The application process varies between different colleges and courses. Find out how to get help and advice when applying for a course, whether you have to fill in an application form, attend an interview or provide a reference.

Help with the costs of learning

You could get financial help towards the costs of your learning, and related costs like travel and childcare. You can also get impartial advice about the help that is available from a learning adviser, either by phone or email.

• Help with the costs of learning (education and learning section)

Adult Learning Grant

The Adult Learning Grant is a means-tested grant. If you are over 50, it provides a weekly payment during term time to adults studying full-time for a first Level 2 qualification (five GCSEs or equivalent).

• Adult Learning Grant (education and learning section)

Guide to qualifications

Qualifications prove that you've gained knowledge and developed certain skills, and can help you get a better job or learn something new. You can get free advice to help you decide on the most suitable qualification and how to get it.

• Guide to qualifications (education and learning section)

Learning in your community

Learning is something you can do any day and at any time, whether you're in your local library, museum, cinema, art gallery or just exploring your local area. Many libraries, museums and galleries also have excellent learning sections on their websites.

• Learning in your community (education and learning section)

More useful links

• Returning to learning (education and learning section)