Yes, adults in London can go to university without A levels. Many London universities and colleges run degrees with a foundation year for mature students, often taught on set days so you can keep working. Dream Wise is based in Ilford, east London, and helps adults across the city choose a course and apply for Student Finance.
Looking for a course? See university courses for mature students, or request a free call from an adviser ↓
Studying in London as an adult
London has a very large number of universities and colleges, spread from the centre out to places like Stratford, Greenwich and the outer boroughs. That choice is useful, but it also means two courses with the same title can differ a lot in timetable, location and entry requirements. For adults, the question is rarely "is there a course?" and usually "which one fits my week and my journey?"
What study usually looks like
- Set teaching days. Many foundation-year degrees aimed at adults in London group classes into a few days a week, so you can plan work and childcare around them.
- Daytime, evening or weekend options. Some courses offer evening or weekend groups. Availability changes each intake, so we check it for you.
- Campus plus online study. Expect independent study at home between classes. Plan for it in your week as well as the hours on campus.
Think about the journey
In London the commute can matter more than the course title. A campus that is one bus away is easier to keep up with for three or four years than one that takes two changes on the Tube. Before you apply, do a test journey at the time your classes would start. If you are a student you may be able to get travel discounts; check the student options on the TfL website.
Student Finance if you study in London
Funding rules don't change by city — what changes is your Maintenance Loan rate, which gov.uk says depends partly on where you live while you study, including whether that's in London. See the full eligibility rules, the January 2027 under-60 cutoff and how to apply in our Student Finance eligibility guide.
Help from a London-based adviser
Our office is on Cranbrook Road in Ilford, and we speak to adults all over London by phone and WhatsApp. We help you compare courses, prepare your university application and get your Student Finance England application right, free to students. Universities decide on places and Student Finance England decides on funding.
Related guides
- Talk to an adviser about university courses for mature students
- Can you go to university without A levels?
- Am I eligible for Student Finance?
Quick answers
Can I go to university in London without A levels?
Yes, often. Many London universities and colleges offer degrees with a foundation year that accept adults without A levels, usually after an interview or short task. Entry requirements vary by course.
Can I study in London around a full-time job?
Many courses aimed at adults group teaching into set days, and some offer evening or weekend study. Timetables vary by course and intake, so check before you apply.
Is Student Finance different if I study in London?
Eligibility is the same anywhere in England. The Maintenance Loan depends partly on where you live while you study, including whether you live in London.
Where is Dream Wise based?
Our office is at Cranbrook Road in Ilford, east London. We help adults across London by phone and WhatsApp, and our guidance is free to students.
Talk to an adviser, free
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For adults living in England who haven’t studied at university before.
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Next step: find university courses for mature students and talk to a free adviser, or check if you're eligible for Student Finance.
This article is general information only, not financial or legal advice, and is not affiliated with Student Finance England, UCAS, any university or government body. Rules, amounts and processes can change. Always confirm current details at gov.uk and with the relevant provider. © 2026 Dream Wise Education Ltd.
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