Enhanced Learning Credit Scheme

PDF Version
Name of the instrument - Local language
Enhanced Learning Credit Scheme
Name of the instrument - English translation
Enhanced Learning Credit Scheme
Scheme ID
325
Country
United Kingdom
Reporting year
2020
Type of instrument
Grant for individuals
Sub-type of instrument
Cost-related support
Type of entry
Single instrument
Short description

The MOD promotes lifelong learning among members of the Armed Forces, and this is encouraged through the Learning Credit schemes. The Enhanced Learning Credit (ELC) scheme helps eligible Service personnel (SP) or Leavers (SL) with the cost of learning. The scheme allows a single award in each of a maximum of three separate Financial Years, or a single aggregated lower-tier award. ELCs may be claimed for learning which is an integral part, and results in the cost-effective achievement, of a nationally recognised qualification at Level 3 or above. 80% of eligible costs can be covered (up to EUR 7 127). The ELC scheme permits Regular SPs to pursue their personal development, both during their Service and generally for 5 years after discharge.

Level of operation
National
Name of a part of the country
Not applicable
Name of the region (for regional instruments)
Not applicable
Name of the sector (for sectoral instruments)
Not applicable
Relevance
Further instrument
The Armed Forces (Enhanced Learning Credit Scheme and Further and Higher Education Commitment Scheme) Order 2012, S.I. 2012/1796 (as amended, most recently by S.I. 2016/310)
Objective(s) and target(s)
The MOD's Enhanced Learning Credits Scheme (ELC) promotes lifelong learning amongst members of the Armed Forces. The scheme provides financial support in each of a maximum of three separate financial years for higher level learning of a nationally recognised qualification at level three or above or, if pursued overseas, an approved international equivalent qualification with an approved learning provider.
Year of implementation
2012
Operation/management
The scheme is managed by the Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Service (ELCAS) on behalf of the Ministry of Defence (MOD).
Eligible group(s)
Serving or previous service personnel who have served a minimum of six years.
Group(s) with preferential treatment
Those who have served longer have preferential treatment.
Education and training eligible
Providers are approved by the Ministry of Defence - wide range of courses and study are supported in FE/HE.
Source of financing and collection mechanism
Ministry of Defence
Financing formula and allocation mechanisms
Service personnel are enrolled for ELC and the value depends on length of time in service. There are two tiers of funding, dependant on length of service. Lower tier (4 or more years eligible service) funding is GBP 1 000 per year and upper tier (8 or more years eligible service) is GBP 2 000 per year. Credits cover 80% of the fees on an eligible course up to a maximum of GBP 2 000.
Eligible costs
ELC funding is only available for courses that result in a Nationally Recognised Qualification at level three or above on the National Qualification Framework or level six or above on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework.
Volumes of funding
Not available
Beneficiaries/take up
Not available
Organisation responsible for monitoring/evaluation
Ministry of Defence
Most relevant webpage - in English
http://www.enhancedlearningcredits.com
Most relevant webpage - local language
http://www.enhancedlearningcredits.com
Recent changes

No recent amendment

Recent changes in response to COVID-19

No changes

Sources
ELCAS
ELCAS
ELCAS
On this page: