Second Degree Funding

Hi there - I studied a music degree from 2009 to 2012, for which I received student finance. I'm now studying an Access to HE course in Land-Based Studies (Animal and Countryside Management), for which I have taken out an Advanced Learner Loan.

I am hoping to pursue a BSc in Zoology, starting September 2026. Would I be eligible for an undergraduate loan to cover my tuition fees? My understanding is that currently, part-time STEM courses are exceptions to the ELQ rule, meaning I would be able to take out a second undergraduate loan - is that correct?

And if I study a BSc in Zoology full time, would I be entitled to any loans, or is it just part-time?

Also, with the new Lifelong Learner Entitlement system coming into place, will this affect my options for funding from SFE? What would I be eligible for going forward considering my history, and what I am hoping to study?

Many thanks!!

Reply 1

Drew SLC

Official Rep

Hi there,

We have not had any confirmation about Life Long Learning as of yet. Can you confirm what university you want to attend and the duration of your part time course. Did you get an undergraduate qualification of your music degree?

Thanks, Drew

Reply 2

dpr18sue

Hi Drew,

Thank you for getting back to me.

I'm looking at the Anglia Ruskin part-time Zoology BSc, lasting 6 years. I was also thinking about the City College Norwich Zoology BSc, which is full time at 3 years, but would I not be able to get funding for that?

And, yes, I got a BA from my music degree.

Thanks again

Reply 3

Leah SLC

Official Rep

Hi there. You would not get funding for the full time Zoology, as it's not a full time exception course.

I have checked the Anglia Ruskin part time one on our system, and they haven't added this course for 25/26 on our system to check, but they did add it on our system for 24/25 year, and this one would be considered an exception, meaning you would be able to get funding for this as a second degree part-time.

It would be best checking nearer the time to make sure they have added it on our system for 26/27 Academic Year, and that it is still considered an exception course, as we cannot guarantee it will be eligible until they have done this. Typically the universities will add 26/27 course's around the time the applications come out, which is usually March/April 2026. The universities will also be able to tell you directly if it's a part time exception course.

Thanks, Leah.