If you’ve already got a degree and are interested in returning to study for another, it’s important to note that the government doesn’t provide funding for qualifications that are "at the same or on a lower level to" a qualification (ELQ) that you’ve already been awarded.
Please note: at Solent University, we don’t currently administer advanced learner loans. With this in mind, we aren’t able to provide you with a learning and funding information letter, should you apply for a loan.
What does this mean for you?
If you are a home (UK) or EU student and already have a degree, you might have to pay a higher tuition fee amount than the standard rate if you choose to study another degree course. This could be at the rate set for international students.
You might also be ineligible for funding from the government for your fees or living costs.
Please see examples below:
| If you already have | And want to do | The possible charge is |
| Degree | Degree/HND/HNC | Higher rate fee |
| HND | HND/HNC | Higher rate fee |
| Master's | Degree/HND/HNC | Higher rate fee |
| HND/HNC | Degree/master's | Standard rate fee |
| HNC | HND/degree/master's | Standard rate fee |
Are there any exemptions?
You might be automatically exempt from the ELQ policy if you’re studying:
- undergraduate medicine, dentistry, social work, nursing, or teacher training,
- BA Architecture,
- or if you are classed as 'overseas' (non-EU) for tuition fee purposes.
Please do check with our student funding team before committing to your course, as this list isn’t exhaustive.
