Colleges (Further Education)

Updated: 12 April 2026

In short

An FE college is where you learn English, GCSEs, A-Levels, BTECs and trades. Free from age 16. Asylum seekers — free after 6 months waiting. Access to HE — your path to university in 1 year.

£0

From age 16

free for everyone

6 months

Asylum seekers

waiting time for access

GCSE+

What you learn

A-Level, BTEC, ESOL

1 year

Access to HE

path to university

What is an FE college?

FE means Further Education. It is not a university. A college is between school and university.

At college you can study: English (ESOL), school subjects (GCSE, A-Level), practical courses (BTEC), and trades (electrician, plumber, hairdresser).

There is a college in every town. Courses usually take 1-2 years. Classes are during the day or evening. Part-time options are available (a few times a week).

What you can study

📖 ESOL — English language

Free with an ARC card. Levels from zero to advanced. Classes 2-4 times a week. You can study in the evening and work during the day. Many colleges accept students all year.

🔤 GCSE — basic subjects

Maths and English — needed for most jobs and courses. Adults can pass them in 1 year. Free if you don't already have GCSE grade 4+ in these subjects.

📚 A-Level — for university

3-4 subjects, 2 years. For university entry. But for adults, Access to HE is better — it is faster (1 year) and designed for people who have been out of education.

🛠️ BTEC — practical courses

Business, IT, health, construction, cooking, hairdressing. More hands-on, fewer exams. With BTEC Level 3 you can go to university.

🚀 Access to Higher Education

For adults 19+. Takes 1 year. Replaces A-Levels for university entry. Subjects: healthcare, business, social work, science. Free for refugees.

🔧 Trades (vocational)

Electrician, plumber, plasterer, mechanic, chef. Short courses of 6-12 months. Get a certificate and start working. See Trades page for details.

Who can study for free

Age 16-18 — free for everyone, any immigration status

19+ refugees (Refugee Status) — free, same as UK citizens

19+ asylum seekers — free after waiting 6 months for a decision (need ARC card)

Humanitarian Protection — free, same as refugees

ESOL — free for everyone with an ARC card, no waiting time required

How to find a college

The easiest way — call the National Careers Service:

📞 0800 100 900

Free call. Interpreters available. Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 10am-1pm

They will help you find a college near you and choose a course.

You can also search at nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/find-a-course — type your postcode and what you want to study.

How to enrol — step by step

Find a college

Call 0800 100 900 or search at nationalcareers.service.gov.uk. Choose a course that fits you.

Apply

Usually online on the college website or in person. The application is free. Apply 2-3 months before the start (June-July for September).

Take a placement test

The college checks your English and maths level. This is not an exam — they just decide which level to put you in. It is free.

Go to enrolment

Bring: your ARC card (or eVisa), proof of address (letter from Home Office or bank), education documents (if you have any, even in another language).

Start studying

Main start — September. Some courses — January. ESOL often starts at any time of year. You will get a timetable and student card.

💡 Tip

If you are an asylum seeker waiting for a decision — start with ESOL. It is free from day one. Study GCSE maths at the same time. When you get your status, you can move to more advanced courses straight away.

Frequently asked questions

Can I study for free?

Age 16-18 — free for everyone. 19+ refugees — free. 19+ asylum seekers — free after waiting 6 months. ESOL is free with an ARC card.

What is the difference between college and university?

College (FE college) is after school, before university. You study GCSE, A-Level, BTEC, ESOL, and vocational courses. Usually 1-2 years. University is higher education (bachelor's, master's). College is simpler and closer to home.

What documents do I need?

ARC card or eVisa, proof of address, any education documents (if you have them). The college will do a placement test to check your English and maths. This is free.

When does the year start?

Main start — September. Some courses — January. ESOL often starts all year. Apply early — 2-3 months before.

What is Access to Higher Education?

A course for adults (19+) that replaces A-Levels. Takes 1 year. After it, you can apply to university. Free for refugees. Perfect if you don't have UK qualifications.

🔍 Find a course near you →