Funding Your Second Degree in the UK

Embarking on a second degree in the UK can feel both exciting and daunting—especially when it comes to financing. Funding rules for those who already hold a qualification can appear confusing, and plenty of myths circulate about what is (or isn’t) possible. In reality, the landscape of student finance has evolved to focus on areas deemed a priority for the workforce, leaving many prospective students uncertain about how to cover tuition fees and living costs. Whether you’re a home or international applicant, this article will guide you through the current (2024–2025) funding options, exceptions, and practical tips for maximising your chances of financial support.

Can You Get Funding for a Second Degree in the UK?

Many people find themselves wondering if they can tap into Student Finance England (SFE) again for a second qualification. The short answer is: it depends. In most circumstances, the government’s overarching ELQ (Equivalent or Lower Qualification) policy prevents you from receiving standard undergraduate student finance for a course at the same or a lower level than one you already hold. For instance, if you have a Bachelor’s degree in English, you usually can’t get another tuition-fee loan for a second Bachelor’s in History.

Understanding the ELQ Policy

• ELQ stands for Equivalent or Lower Qualification. Under this policy, if you aim to pursue a second undergraduate degree that’s the same level (or lower) than your existing qualification, you typically won’t be entitled to standard tuition fee or maintenance loans from SFE.
• This rule was introduced to prevent duplication of funding for students who have already benefited from degree-level studies.

However, don’t let this discourage you outright. There are important exceptions—especially for certain high-demand professions or niche routes where the UK government has identified skill shortages. Understanding these exceptions (and how they apply to your desired field) can open up new paths for obtaining financial support.

Exceptions to the Rule: When Second Degrees Are Funded

While the ELQ policy can seem strict, it’s not all bad news. A selection of “priority areas” and accredited professions still qualify for funding, even if you’re returning for a second undergraduate degree. Some postgraduate routes are also explicitly designed for those who already hold a degree. Below are the main exceptions:

Nursing, Midwifery, and Allied Health

If you want to retrain in Nursing, Midwifery, or Allied Health (such as Physiotherapy or Occupational Therapy), you’re in luck. The government recognises the need for healthcare professionals, and you can usually access tuition fee loans for these degree programmes—even if you already hold a Bachelor’s in another discipline. Depending on the course and location within the UK, you might also be eligible for the NHS Learning Support Fund, which can help cover additional costs for travel, uniforms, or childcare.

Teaching (PGCE)

A PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) is treated as an initial teacher training course. Even if you already have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a different subject, you can receive tuition and maintenance loans for a PGCE in England. This makes teaching an accessible career change for many graduates, as they can switch fields without worrying about being locked out of student finance.

Graduate Entry Medicine

If your heart is set on medicine but you studied something unrelated first, Graduate Entry Medicine programmes exist for exactly this scenario. Funding, however, can be more complex. Generally, for your first year, you’ll need to rely on standard Student Finance England support (but only for part of the tuition fees), with the remainder often self-funded. In later years (years 2–4), you may qualify for an NHS bursary and a reduced-rate student loan to help cover living costs. It’s a mixed funding arrangement, so researching in advance is vital.

Social Work

Social work is another key area where second-degree funding might be available, particularly if you enrol in a programme recognised by Social Work England (or its equivalent in other UK nations). This can include a Social Work Bursary (administered by the NHS Business Services Authority in England) and, in some cases, additional support for course-related travel or placements. Specific funding levels can vary by region—Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have their own bursary systems—so be sure to check local rules.

Other Options

For courses and situations not covered by these exceptions, you’ll likely need to explore alternative funding sources. While these may require more planning and research, many students successfully finance second degrees through a combination of scholarships, private loans, part-time work, and other creative methods. Below are a few routes to consider:

University Scholarships and Bursaries

Many UK universities offer scholarships, bursaries, or fee discounts for various categories of students, including those returning to study for a second degree. Some awards focus on academic excellence, while others target specific demographics or skill areas. Don’t rely solely on major external funding sources; often, the most lucrative or accessible scholarships are those offered directly by the institution you plan to attend.

Private and Career Development Loans

If you’re not eligible for standard government funding, you might explore private student loans or career development loans. Future Finance is one well-known provider offering student loans to cover tuition and living costs. Additionally, certain banks offer specialised professional and career development loans, though terms vary, and you’ll want to carefully compare interest rates and repayment conditions before committing.

Employer Sponsorship or Professional Funding

Some students secure employer sponsorship, particularly if the second degree aligns with career development. If you’re already working in a field that values higher or more specialised qualifications—IT, engineering, finance, or project management, for instance—your employer may be willing to cover some (or all) tuition fees. This is often offered under the condition that you remain with the company for a certain period post-graduation.

Self-Funding with Part-Time Study

Choosing a part-time or distance-learning route can soften the financial blow, as you can spread out tuition costs while working. Part-time programmes often give you more flexibility to earn while you learn, making self-funding a more feasible strategy for many mature students. Keep in mind, though, that part-time students may or may not be eligible for certain loans or grants, so check the specific funding criteria for each course and provider.

Crowdfunding or Charity Grants

Although less common, crowdfunding campaigns can sometimes generate a surprising level of community support, especially if your second degree aims to create social impact. Additionally, certain charitable trusts or grant-making bodies offer financial assistance for individuals retraining in fields that benefit local communities or the broader public interest. These opportunities are typically niche, so thorough research and a well-crafted application (including evidence of your goals and potential community benefit) are crucial.

Funding for International Students

International applicants generally face more challenges, as they can’t usually access Student Finance England loans. They must turn to scholarships, bursaries, or sponsorships from their home country, UK universities, or international funding bodies. For instance:

• Chevening Scholarships: A well-known scheme run by the UK government for future leaders and professionals from around the world.
• Commonwealth Scholarships: Targeted at citizens of Commonwealth countries, often focusing on development-related fields of study.
• University-specific scholarships for international students (offered by many institutions to attract global talent).

Competition for these awards can be fierce, so start researching and applying well in advance of your planned entry date.

Compare Your Options at a Glance

Below is a concise table summarising the main funding avenues for a second degree in the UK during 2024–2025. It offers a quick way to see which routes might align with your course choice and personal circumstances.

Tips to Boost Your Chances

Securing any form of financial support typically involves a fair bit of preparation. Here are some strategies to strengthen your applications and overall funding prospects:

• Be Proactive and Apply Early: Funding pots can deplete quickly, especially for bursaries and scholarships with rolling deadlines. Give yourself plenty of time to research options, gather documents, and complete application forms. Contact universities directly if you’re unsure about a specific scholarship’s opening or closing date.
• Craft a Strong Personal Statement: Whether you’re applying for a scholarship, bursary, or sponsorship, your personal statement can make or break your chances. Explain why you’re pursuing this second degree, how it aligns with your career plan, and what value you intend to bring to your new profession or community. Clarity, sincerity, and a well-structured argument will leave a lasting impression.
• Demonstrate Career Alignment or Retraining Goals: Many funders want to see that you have a robust plan for how this second degree will facilitate a meaningful career transition or progression. Show evidence of career research, relevant work experience, or volunteer roles that build a case for the importance of your degree choice.
• Explore Regional Schemes or Employer Incentives: Different parts of the UK occasionally launch regional initiatives to attract skilled workers. If you’re studying in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, check for local government scholarships or job-oriented grants. Equally, speak to your current or potential future employer about possible tuition fee contributions or flexible work arrangements.
• Use Scholarship Search Tools and Funding Directories: Websites such as Scholarship Search UK, Prospects.ac.uk, and your target university’s own funding directory can help you find opportunities you might otherwise overlook. Be thorough and be prepared to cast a wide net—smaller, specialised scholarships often have fewer applicants, increasing your odds of success.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The decision to pursue a second degree is a deeply personal one, influenced by your career goals, financial situation, and willingness to re-enter academic life. It’s true that funding rules are more restrictive the second time around, but that doesn’t mean the path is closed. Exceptions exist for crucial professions, and a variety of alternative funding sources—ranging from scholarships to employer sponsorship—can lighten the financial burden.

Ultimately, the value of a second qualification can be profound if it leads to a career change you’re passionate about, or if it propels you into a new phase of professional growth. While you’ll need to navigate more intricate funding pathways and show determination, the potential rewards—both professionally and personally—may well justify the extra effort.

FAQ: Second Degree Funding in the UK