How Parents Can Study at University and Get Childcare Support in the UK

Being a Parent Should Not Stop Your Education Dreams

Many parents spend years supporting their families, building careers, and putting their own ambitions on hold.

You may have thought:

I want to study, but I have children to look after.
How will I afford childcare?
Can I balance university, work, and family life?

The reality is that thousands of parents return to education every year to improve their careers, increase their earning potential, and achieve personal goals.

With the right support and flexible study options, becoming a university student while raising children is possible.

At Wilor Education, we help eligible students explore degree opportunities, understand funding options, and receive step-by-step guidance throughout their university journey.

Can Parents Go to University in the UK?

Yes. Parents can apply for university and may be eligible for financial support depending on their circumstances.

Being a parent does not prevent you from accessing higher education. In fact, there are several forms of support designed to help student parents manage the costs of studying.

These may include:

✅ Student Finance England support
✅ Tuition fee support
✅ Maintenance support for living costs
✅ Childcare support
✅ Parents' Learning Allowance
✅ Adult Dependants' Grant
✅ Disabled Students' Allowance (where eligible)

Eligibility depends on your personal circumstances, household income, course type, and other requirements. (GOV.UK)

How Can Parents Afford University?

One of the biggest concerns for parents is the cost of returning to education.

Many adults delay university because they believe:

❌ I cannot afford tuition fees.
❌ I cannot leave work.
❌ I cannot manage childcare costs.

However, eligible students may be able to access support through Student Finance England.

1. Tuition Fee Support

Student Finance England may provide funding towards eligible university tuition fees, meaning students do not usually need to pay course fees upfront.

2. Maintenance Support

Parents may also be eligible to apply for maintenance support to help with everyday living costs, such as:

• Rent
• Travel
• Food
• Study materials
• Household expenses

The amount depends on individual circumstances

Childcare Support for University Students

One of the biggest barriers for parents returning to education is childcare.

The good news is that eligible student parents may be able to receive additional support.

Childcare Grant

The Childcare Grant helps eligible full-time higher education students with childcare costs.

It may be available if:

✔ You have children
✔ You are studying an eligible higher education course
✔ You meet the required eligibility criteria

The grant does not need to be repaid, although students may need to repay overpayments or incorrect payments. (GOV.UK)

The amount available depends on circumstances such as household income and childcare costs. (GOV.UK)

Additional Financial Support Available for Student Parents

Parents may also explore additional support options.

Parents' Learning Allowance

The Parents' Learning Allowance can help eligible student parents with learning-related costs, such as:

• Books
• Equipment
• Travel
• Study expenses

Eligibility depends on circumstances and course requirements. (GOV.UK)

Adult Dependants' Grant

Some students who financially support another adult may be able to receive additional help through the Adult Dependants' Grant, depending on eligibility. (UCAS)

Can I Study While Looking After Children?

Many parents worry that university will not fit around family responsibilities.

Modern degree programmes increasingly offer flexible options, including:

✅ Blended learning
✅ Part-time study options
✅ Evening classes
✅ Weekend learning
✅ Flexible schedules

These options allow many adults to continue working while progressing towards a degree.

What If I Do Not Have GCSEs or A Levels?

Many parents believe university is impossible because they do not have traditional qualifications.

However, there may be alternative routes into higher education depending on your experience, background, and chosen course.

At Wilor Education, we help students understand:

✔ Available degree pathways
✔ Entry requirements
✔ Suitable courses
✔ Application options

Your previous qualifications do not always define your future.

Popular Degree Courses for Parents and Adult Learners

Wilor Education supports students interested in career-focused degree programmes.

Business Management

Perfect for parents looking to develop leadership, management, and entrepreneurial skills.

Career opportunities:

• Business Manager
• Operations Manager
• Project Coordinator

Health & Social Care

Ideal for those interested in supporting people and communities.

Career opportunities:

• Healthcare Assistant
• Care Manager
• Health Support Roles

Computing & Technology

Build future-ready digital skills.

Career opportunities:

• IT Professional
• Data Analyst
• Cyber Security Roles

Psychology

Develop understanding of human behaviour and mental wellbeing.

Career opportunities:

• Support Worker
• Mental Health Assistant
• Community Support Roles

Fashion, Hospitality & Creative Industries

Develop practical skills for growing industries.

Career opportunities:

• Fashion Coordinator
• Hospitality Manager
• Creative Professional

Why Parents Choose Wilor Education

Returning to education can feel complicated.

Wilor Education makes the process simple.

We provide:

⭐ Free eligibility assessment
⭐ Free course guidance
⭐ University matching support
⭐ Student Finance guidance
⭐ Application assistance
⭐ Support from enquiry to enrolment

Our mission is to make higher education easier to access for eligible students.

Who Can Apply Through Wilor Education?

We support eligible students including:

✅ British Citizens
✅ EU Settled Status holders
✅ Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) holders
✅ Refugee Status holders

Eligibility depends on individual circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I go to university if I have children?

Yes. Many parents study at university while raising children. Support options may be available depending on eligibility.

Can Student Finance help with childcare costs?

Eligible student parents may apply for support such as the Childcare Grant, which helps with childcare costs during study. (GOV.UK)

Can I work while studying?

Yes. Many flexible courses are designed for adults balancing employment and family responsibilities.

Do I need GCSEs or A Levels?

Not always. Alternative pathways may be available depending on your chosen course and circumstances.

Is Wilor Education's support free?

Yes. Wilor Education provides free guidance and support throughout the application journey.

Your Dream Degree Can Start Today

Being a parent means you have responsibilities — but it does not mean you have to give up your dreams.

Whether you want to improve your career, change direction, or achieve a lifelong ambition, education can create new opportunities.

🎓 Start your university journey with Wilor Education.

Check your eligibility today and discover your options.

Wilor Education — Helping you take the next step towards your future.

📞+44 7366 387516 Contact Wilor Education today.