Part-Time Study in the UK: How It Works and Who Can Apply

TL;DR

Part-time study in the UK lets you earn a degree while working, with courses often taking longer than the full-time route. If your course intensity is at least 25% and you meet residency/eligibility rules, you may be able to get Student Finance for tuition fees - and in many cases a Maintenance Loan too (amounts depend on course type, intensity, where you live, and household income). UniStart helps adult learners compare flexible options, understand funding rules, and manage applications - all in one place.

Why Part-Time Study Works for Adult Learners in the UK

Part-time study is a common route in the UK, but many eligible adults still don’t realise they may be able to access Student Finance for part-time courses.

If you’re working full-time, caring for family, or simply need flexibility, part-time study in the UK offers a realistic pathway to a degree without giving up your income or responsibilities. You attend fewer classes per week, spread your workload across more years, and still graduate with the same qualification as full-time students.

The challenge? Understanding how part-time funding works, which courses qualify, and how to balance everything without burning out. That’s exactly what this guide covers, and where UniStart steps in to simplify the entire process.

What Is Part-Time Study in the UK?

Part-time study means you’re enrolled in a university course but studying at a lower intensity than full-time students. Instead of completing a degree in three years, you might take four, five, or even six years - depending on your schedule and course structure.

Here’s what makes it different:

• You attend fewer lectures and seminars each week (often evenings or weekends)
• You complete fewer modules per year
• You’re considered a part-time student by Student Finance England
• You can still work while studying

Part-time degrees are available across most subjects - from Business Management to Nursing, Law to Computer Science. Universities design these programmes specifically for adults who need flexibility, so teaching schedules often accommodate working hours.

Student Finance rules for part-time study are different from full-time, but the key point is simple: if your course intensity is 25% or more, you can be eligible for student finance support (subject to the usual residency and course rules).

Part-Time vs Full-Time With Limited Attendance: A Common Misunderstanding

One of the biggest reasons European students hesitate to apply is a simple misunderstanding.

Many people assume that full-time study in the UK means attending university 4–5 days per week, making it impossible to keep a job. In reality, this is often not true.

Here’s the key difference you need to understand.

Part-Time Courses

A part-time course is officially classified as part-time by the university and by Student Finance England. What defines it is course intensity, not how many days you physically attend.

Typical characteristics:

• Lower study intensity (usually between 25% and 75% of a full-time course)
• Longer overall duration (4–6 years instead of 3)
• Funding calculated proportionally based on intensity
• Often designed specifically for working adults

You are considered a part-time student in both academic and funding terms.

Full-Time Courses With 1–2 Days Attendance

A full-time course can still have very limited weekly attendance.

In many UK universities, especially in subjects like Business, Computing, Health & Social Care, or Construction Management, a full-time course may require:

• 1–2 days per week on campus
• The rest of the learning done through independent study, online materials, or coursework

Despite the lighter timetable, the course is still officially full-time, which means:

• You receive full-time Student Finance (if eligible)
• You graduate in the standard timeframe (usually 3 years, or 4 with a foundation year)
• The qualification is exactly the same as any other full-time degree

This is also how most courses on the UniStart platform are structured. They are typically full-time programmes with a timetable that often looks like 1-2 days per week on campus, supported by online learning and independent study.

In practice, many people who apply through UniStart are working adults who continue their jobs while studying. Full-time study in the UK is often compatible with work when the course timetable is designed for adult learners.

Why This Matters for Working Students

The reality is that most adult and EU students in the UK work while studying, even on full-time courses.

Common combinations we see every year:

• Full-time degree with 1–2 days on campus + 20–30 hours of work per week
• Evening or blended full-time courses alongside a regular job
• Part-time study combined with full-time employment

Many students delay or abandon their application simply because they believe full-time study is incompatible with work. In practice, UK universities design many full-time programmes assuming students will be working alongside their studies.

The important takeaway is this:

Full-time does not mean full-week attendance. It means how the course is classified academically, not how many days you sit in a classroom.

If your main concern is whether you can work and study at the same time, the answer for most people is yes, with the right course structure.

If you are unsure whether a specific course is officially full-time or part-time, or how the timetable looks in practice, UniStart can clarify this for you before you apply.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Part-Time Study in the UK

Applying for part-time study follows a similar path to full-time applications, but with a few key differences. Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

You need to be ordinarily resident in the UK for at least three years before your course starts. This usually means you’ve been living, working, or studying in the UK - not just visiting.

If you’re unsure about your residency status, check GOV.UK’s eligibility guidance or use UniStart’s free eligibility checker to get clarity in minutes.

Step 2: Find a Part-Time Course

Not every university offers every course part-time, so you’ll need to search specifically for part-time options. Look for:

• Courses that explicitly state “part-time” or “flexible study”
• Evening or weekend teaching schedules
• Distance learning or blended delivery (if you prefer online study)

UniStart’s course finder filters part-time programmes by subject, location, and start date - so you don’t waste time searching dozens of university websites.

Step 3: Apply Directly to the University

You apply directly to the university for part-time courses. Each institution has its own application portal and deadlines, so check their website carefully.

Most universities accept applications year-round for part-time study, but popular courses may fill up quickly. Start your application at least 3-4 months before your intended start date.

Step 4: Apply for Student Finance

Once you’ve received an offer, apply for Student Finance England (or the equivalent for Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland). You’ll need to apply separately for:

• Tuition Fee Loan: available for eligible part-time courses (the amount is normally worked out based on course intensity and provider/course fee limits)
• Maintenance Loan: available for many eligible part-time students (amount depends on course intensity, where you live while studying, and household income). Important: part-time distance learning students are usually not eligible for a Maintenance Loan unless they cannot attend in person because of a disability.

Your course intensity is measured as a percentage of the full-time equivalent. For example, if a full-time course requires 120 credits per year and you’re taking 60 credits, you’re studying at 50% intensity.

For the official eligibility rules (including the 25% intensity requirement), see GOV.UK: https://www.gov.uk/student-finance/who-qualifies

Step 5: Balance Work, Study, and Life

This is where most adult learners feel the pressure. You’ll need to:

• Set a realistic study schedule (evenings, weekends, or lunch breaks)
• Communicate with your employer (some offer study leave or flexible hours)
• Use tools like UniStart’s student support resources to stay organised

Pro Tip: Over 70% of UniStart users who study part-time report that planning their weekly schedule in advance - before term starts - was the single biggest factor in staying on track. Use a shared calendar with your family or housemates so everyone knows when you need quiet study time.

Real Impact: Part-Time Study by the Numbers

Here are a few practical reference points to help you plan (note: your exact funding and workload depend on your course and circumstances):

Sources: GOV.UK Student Finance eligibility guidance, Student Finance England information for part-time students.

These numbers show that part-time study isn’t a niche option - it’s a mainstream pathway for adult learners across the UK. With the right support, you can manage work, study, and personal commitments without sacrificing your degree.

Common Challenges and Misconceptions About Part-Time Study

Myth #1: “Part-time students don’t get any funding”

➜ Not true. You may be eligible for a Tuition Fee Loan for an eligible part-time course, and in many cases a Maintenance Loan too - as long as your course intensity is at least 25% and you meet the standard eligibility rules.

Myth #2: “Employers won’t take part-time degrees seriously”

➜ Not true. Your degree certificate doesn’t say “part-time” - it’s the exact same qualification as full-time graduates earn. Employers care about your skills and knowledge, not how long it took you to finish.

Myth #3: “I need to quit my job to go to university”

➜ Not true. Part-time study is designed for working adults. Many courses offer evening or weekend teaching, and some are entirely online. You can keep your income while building your qualifications. Use UniStart’s course finder to filter by flexible delivery options.

Frequently Asked Questions About Part-Time Study in the UK

Can I work full-time while studying part-time?

Yes. Most part-time students work full-time or close to it. Universities design part-time courses with working adults in mind, often scheduling classes in the evenings or on weekends. Just make sure you’re realistic about your energy levels and study time.

How much Student Finance can I get for part-time study?

For eligible part-time courses, you may be able to get a Tuition Fee Loan, and in many cases a Maintenance Loan too. The exact amount depends on your course intensity, where you live while studying, household income, and the type of course/provider. Always check the current rules on GOV.UK before applying.

How long does a part-time degree take?

Typically 4-6 years, depending on your course intensity. If you study at 50% intensity, a three-year full-time degree will take six years. Some students study at 75% intensity and finish in four years.

Do I need to apply through a special system for part-time courses?

No. You apply directly to the university - there’s no centralised system for part-time applications. Each university has its own process, so check their website or use UniStart to manage applications across multiple institutions in one place.

Can I switch from part-time to full-time (or vice versa)?

Usually, yes - but it depends on the university and course. You’ll need to speak to your admissions tutor or course leader. Keep in mind that switching affects your Student Finance, so you’ll need to update your application with Student Finance England.

Key Takeaways

• Part-time study in the UK is a flexible, realistic option for adult learners who need to balance work, family, and education.
• You can access Tuition Fee Loans and Maintenance Loans if you meet residency requirements and study at least 25% intensity.
• Apply directly to universities for part-time courses - there’s no centralised application system.
• Planning your weekly schedule in advance is the single biggest factor in staying on track.
• UniStart helps you find eligible courses, check your funding options, and manage applications - all in one app.

Ready to Start Your Part-Time Degree?

Not sure which part-time course is right for you - or whether you qualify for funding?

👉 Download the UniStart app to explore part-time courses, check your eligibility, and get your funding sorted in one place.

👉 Request a free callback from our team and we’ll walk you through your options, step by step.

“Part-time study isn’t a compromise - it’s a smart strategy for adults who want to grow their careers without putting life on hold. At UniStart, we’ve helped thousands of working adults find the right course, secure funding, and succeed on their own schedule.”
Radu Danila, Founder of UniStart