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PGCE and second degree STEM funding

I have an undergraduate degree. I was hoping to begin a PGCE programme this autumn.

After the PGCE was finished it was my plan to enrol on a second undergraduate degree at the Open University (one of the STEM degrees, which does qualify for funding). However, I have just been made aware that from January 2017 the current system of funding for second degrees is changing and I probably would lose my entitlement to a tuition fee loan.

So I wanted to know if it is possible, from a student finance perspective, to do a PGCE and begin the STEM degree at the same time this October?

Reply 1

Original post
by Snufkin
I have an undergraduate degree. I was hoping to begin a PGCE programme this autumn.
After the PGCE was finished it was my plan to enrol on a second undergraduate degree at the Open University (one of the STEM degrees, which does qualify for funding). However, I have just been made aware that from January 2017 the current system of funding for second degrees is changing and I probably would lose my entitlement to a tuition fee loan.
So I wanted to know if it is possible, from a student finance perspective, to do a PGCE and begin the STEM degree at the same time this October?

Hi there,

We won't fund both courses at the same time. You will only be able to receive funding for one course from us.

Thanks,
Claire

Reply 2

Original post
by Claire SFE
Hi there,

We won't fund both courses at the same time. You will only be able to receive funding for one course from us.

Thanks,
Claire


In that case, can you comment on what the changes in 2027 will be? If I do the PGCE first, will I still be able to get a loan for a second STEM part-time undergraduate degree?

Reply 3

Original post
by Snufkin
In that case, can you comment on what the changes in 2027 will be? If I do the PGCE first, will I still be able to get a loan for a second STEM part-time undergraduate degree?

Hi there,

Yes, you would be able to apply for a Part Time Exception course before or after studying a PGCE. Thanks, Jason

Reply 4

Original post
by SFE Jason
Hi there,

Yes, you would be able to apply for a Part Time Exception course before or after studying a PGCE. Thanks, Jason


I am asking about 2027 and onwards. Are the rules not changing?

Reply 5

Hi there. Unfortunately, we don't have full details if the ELQ exception courses will change for the Lifelong Entitlement (LLE) Loan yet.

Some information regarding LLE here, but this is all that has been confirmed so far: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/lifelong-learning-entitlement-lle-overview/lifelong-learning-entitlement-overview

Thanks, Leah.

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