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These loans will help learners aged 24 or above pay the fees charged by colleges and training providers for courses at Level 3 and Level 4, or Advanced and Higher Apprenticeships.

Level 3 and Level 4 courses include A levels, Access to Higher Education Diplomas and other Certificates and Diplomas.

Commenting on the launch of the loans, Kim Thorneywork, Chief Executive of the Skills Funding Agency said: "24+ Advanced Learning Loans will provide great opportunities for those over 24, to gain qualifications that provide access to better jobs and future careers. For the first time this will give learners in further education access to financial support for course costs very similar to the support available for higher education courses.

"Individuals who are better qualified experience benefits, including increased wages. Learners can apply for a loan now for courses starting in August and, as with tuition fees for degrees the loan does not have to be paid back until earnings are over £21,000 a year.

"The Agency has been working with more than 800 colleges and training organisations to ensure they are ready to offer 24+ Advanced Learning Loans as part of their core training and skills offer to learners. The National Careers Service is equipped to provide learners with all the information they need."

Read the press notice in full. Further information, including a Factsheet and Frequently Asked Questions, is available on the 24+ Advanced Learning Loans page of our website.