Free and Low-Cost Courses for Adults in England
You don’t have to commit to a full degree to start learning. Free courses can help you test an interest, build skills or gain a recognised qualification.
The short version
- Free online courses, such as OpenLearn from The Open University, are a no-risk way to try a subject before paying for study.
- Under Free Courses for Jobs, adults in England aged 19 or over who earn below £25,750 or are unemployed can take some Level 3 qualifications free.
- Free Level 3 courses cover subjects such as accounting, digital, engineering, health and social care, and construction.
- Use the National Careers Service course finder to search for funded courses near you or online.
- Check what a course leads to: a certificate of participation isn’t the same as a regulated qualification.
Learning doesn’t have to start with a degree application and a student loan. Plenty of courses are free, and some government-funded courses lead to recognised qualifications. Here’s where to look if you live in England.
Free online courses to try a subject
Free online courses are ideal for finding out whether you enjoy a subject before committing time and money.
- OpenLearn, from The Open University, offers free short courses across many subjects, from introductions to science and history to study skills.
- University-run online platforms offer courses from UK and international universities. Some can be sampled free, with paid upgrades for certificates or extended access.
- Free courses from public bodies and charities cover practical skills such as digital skills, money management and first aid.
Before you start, check how long the course takes, whether you get a certificate and whether there’s any cost to keep access.
Study tip
Use a free course as a test run. If you complete it and want more, that’s a good sign the subject is worth pursuing further, perhaps through part-time study with the Open University.
Free Level 3 courses for adults: Free Courses for Jobs
Free Courses for Jobs is a government scheme that pays for some Level 3 qualifications, the same level as A levels. According to GOV.UK, it applies in England to adults who are:
- aged 19 or over, and
- earning below £25,750 a year, or unemployed.
GOV.UK adds that rules on earnings limits and existing qualifications may vary by location, so confirm the details with your local college or training provider.
Subjects at Level 3 include accounting and finance, agriculture, building and construction, business management, childcare and early years, digital, engineering, health and social care, hospitality and catering, mathematics and statistics, public services, science, and teaching and lecturing, among others. Some Level 2 courses in construction, engineering and manufacturing were added in July 2025.
How to find a course
- Search the National Careers Service course finder for free courses near you or online, and set how far you’re willing to travel.
- Contact the college or provider to check it offers the qualification you want and what the entry requirements are.
- Apply. If you’re accepted, the course fee is covered, and you may be able to get extra help with childcare, travel and other costs.
Is it a real qualification?
Not every course leads to a formal qualification. A certificate of completion from an online platform shows you took part; a regulated qualification is one recognised and overseen by a regulator. In England, Ofqual keeps a register of regulated qualifications, so you can check before you enrol. For degrees, our guide to checking a university is recognised explains what to look for.
Building on what you learn
Free courses work best as part of a plan. Note what you enjoyed and what you’d like to do next, whether that’s a further qualification, a career change or a degree. If you’re heading towards university, our guide to choosing a degree is a good next step.
Questions students ask
Are free online course certificates worth anything?
They can show employers your interest and initiative, but most free certificates aren’t formal qualifications. If you need a recognised qualification, look for regulated courses or university credit.
What is a Level 3 qualification?
Level 3 is the same level as A levels. Examples include some diplomas and certificates in vocational subjects. It can open the door to higher-level study or new jobs.
Do I qualify for Free Courses for Jobs if I already have a Level 3?
GOV.UK says rules on earnings limits and existing qualifications can vary by area, so check with your local college or training provider.
Can I study these courses online?
Some funded courses can be taken part-time or online. When you search, you can set how far you’re willing to travel and look for online options.
This guide is general information for students in the UK. Dates, fees and rules change, so always check the latest details with UCAS, GOV.UK, Student Finance England or your university or college before making decisions.
