Worried about the costs? We can help.

The LfC Community Bursary removes the specific barriers that stop people from learning.

What a bursary can pay for

We don’t believe cost should be a barrier to learning. The LfC Community Bursary can cover course fees, devices, transport, childcare, exam fees, materials, and employment transition costs.

Course fee waiver

What it removes: The cost of a fee-paying course (IELTS, SELT)
Eligibility: ESOL graduates progressing to IELTS or SELT with a clear employment or visa goal
Maximum value: Full or partial course fee (e.g. £200 for IELTS)

Device and connectivity

What it removes: No laptop or internet at home
Eligibility: ESOL and Digital Confidence learners without home technology access
Maximum value: Refurbished device + mobile data: approx. £150–200

Transport contribution

What it removes: Cost of getting to class
Eligibility: Any learner for whom travel cost is a documented barrier
Maximum value: Up to £50/week for the course duration

Childcare contribution

What it removes: Cost of childcare while studying
Eligibility: Learners with dependent children; no free childcare available
Maximum value: Up to £50/week for the course duration

Examination fee subsidy

What it removes: Cost of the SELT or Life in the UK exam
Eligibility: ESOL graduates who've completed preparation but can't afford the exam
Maximum value: SELT: approx. £150–200. Life in UK: £50

English learning materials

What it removes: Cost of books and workbooks
Eligibility: ESOL and IELTS learners in financial hardship
Maximum value: Up to £40 per course

Employment transition support

What it removes: First week of work costs: travel card, interview clothes, CV printing
Eligibility: Route A completers moving into employment
Maximum value: Up to £100 per learner

How to apply

Let us help you make the process easier — get in touch with us and we will guide you step by step.

All applications are assessed confidentially against financial need, progression case, and funds availability.