Studies for Parents in the UK - 2 Days a Week/ Weekend and Hybrid-Online Options

Parents in the UK, who prioritise childcare responsibilities but would still like to complete their higher education, now have a great set of options to study for a full UK university qualification.

Study 2 days a week/ weekends or hybrid-online and on campus

These study options are scheduled during hours that are more suitable for parents. Here are a few examples:

  1. Daytime - 2 days a week

a) On-campus: Mondays and Tuesdays from 9:30am to 3:30pm. You can drop your children at school or nursery by 9:00, attend classes, and still have time to pick them up by 15:30.

b) Hybrid: Mondays 9:30-3:30 on-campus and Tuesdays 9:30am-4:30pm online. This option requires less overall travel and is eligible for full UK Student Finance, including maintenance loan (fully online studies don’t allow for this).

  1. Evenings : 

a) On-campus: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 5:45pm to 8:45pm. If you share childcare with a partner who can take over in the evenings, this option might work for you.

b) Hybrid: Tuesday, Wednesday from 5:45pm to 8:45pm and Saturday from 9:30am to 4:30pm. Evenings can be on campus and Saturday online or other way round.

  1. Weekends : 

a) On-campus: Saturday and Sunday from 9:30am to 3:30pm. This is a great option for busy parents who have family support available on weekends.

b) Hybrid: Saturday on-campus from 9:30am to 4:30pm and Sunday online from 9:30am to 4:30pm, or other way round. 

Please mind the fact that, depending on the course chosen, the above start and finish hours may vary slightly.

What you’ll get after finishing your studies

After 4 years (including Year Zero), you’ll earn a full qualification awarded by a UK university.

This helps you apply for better jobs, higher salaries, or a career change.

Depending on the course you choose, you will get a diploma of one of the following UK universities:

  • Oxford Brookes University
  • University of Suffolk
  • Bath Spa University
  • Canterbury Christ Church University

Worried about English?

Use our free UniEdu App to practise speaking, reading, listening, and writing. Everything is based on the real tests. 

Key features of 2-days a week/weekend and hybrid online studies for parents in the UK

  • It’s actually full-time: All the above study options qualify as full-time, meaning you’ll complete your studies in 3-4 years, unlike the 6-8 years required for part-time courses.

  • Financial Support: On-campus and hybrid studies qualify for full, government-backed UK Student Finance, including tuition fee loans, maintenance loans, and childcare grants. You can read more about UK Student Finance options here.

  • Easier Start: Many of these programs offer a foundation year (Year Zero) to help you adjust and make your first year more manageable.

  • Simple Application Process: You don’t need perfect grades or even a high school certificate to qualify. With a little help from us, you can get accepted easily. Learn more about the application process here.

UK Government-backed Student Finance for Your Studies 

⚠️ IMPORTANT FUNDING NOTICE: UNDERSTANDING SFE ELIGIBILITY Please be aware that Student Finance England (SFE) has strict attendance rules regarding funding.

  • Approved Weekday & Mixed Timetables: Courses where the majority of your in-person classes are scheduled during the week (Monday–Friday) are fully eligible for support (Tuition Fee Loan + Maintenance/Living Support Loan + Childcare Grants). This applies even if your schedule includes some supplementary online or weekend sessions.

  • Weekend-Only & Predominantly Weekend Timetables: Courses where the majority or entirety of in-person contact hours fall on the weekend are legally classified by the government as "distance learning." If you choose one of these schedules, you are ONLY eligible for the Tuition Fee Loan. You will NOT be eligible for Maintenance (Living Support) Loans or Childcare Grants.

Funding depends on your eligibility and the specific timetable you choose. If eligible, Student Finance England may provide:

  • Tuition fees – up to £9,790 per year (Available for all study modes: weekday, evening, and weekend).

  • Living support – up to £10,830 per year, or up to £14,135 per year if studying in London (Available ONLY if you attend regular, in-person classes where the majority of hours are during the week Monday-Friday).

  • Childcare grant – up to £199.62/week for one child and up to £342.24/week for two or more children (non-repayable). (Available ONLY if you attend regular, in-person classes where the majority of hours are during the week Monday-Friday).

You pay £0 upfront. You repay only if you earn more than £25,000 a year after finishing your course.

Examples:

  • Earn £26,000? Repay about £7/month
  • Earn £27,000? Repay about £15/month
  • Earn less than £25,000? Repay nothing

If you continue living in the UK after your studies, repayments will be automatic — like tax.

You can read more about available Student Finance England and check if and how much you can get - here.

Who Can Apply?

You can apply even if you:

  • Never finished school
  • Don’t have any high school certificates or diploma
  • Don’t speak perfect English
  • Work full-time or have a family

To apply, you must:

  • Be 18 or over
  • Live in the UK with UK nationality, settled, pre-settled, or valid residence
  • Not already have a university qualification
  • Speak English at B1 (intermediate) level

These courses give you a second chance — with support to succeed.

Application Process – Easy, Quick and Fully Supported

Here’s how to apply:

  1. Open QuickApply University Application Form
  2. Choose your course, location and start date
  3. Fill out the form in next steps (2 mins)
  4. Attend a 3-hour assessment — online or on campus:
    • Short interview
    • Multiple-choice English test (computer-based)
    • Writing task (computer-based)

The required level is B1 (intermediate). 

Use our free UniEdu App to practise speaking, reading, listening, and writing. 

Why Apply with UniEdu?

Applying to university can feel difficult — especially if you’re working, unsure about your English, or haven’t studied in years.

That’s where UniEdu helps:

  • British Council-accredited & official UCAS centre
  • Over 5,000 successful student placements
  • Choice of 150+ UK universities
  • Application support, test prep, and finance help — all free of charge
  • Advisors available 7 days a week (phone, WhatsApp, Messenger)

No contracts. No pressure. Quit the application process any time with no consequences. Just honest support from start to finish.

Tips for Parents to Successfully Complete Studies 

Regardless of your chosen study mode, these tips can help you manage the dual role of parent and student effectively:

  • Establish a Routine: Set a consistent weekly study schedule to build helpful habits and make planning easier.

  • Stay Committed: Consistent attendance is crucial. Avoid missing classes when possible, but remember that missing a few in emergencies is okay.

  • Prioritise Tasks: During semesters, prioritise studying over optional activities like entertainment to stay on top of your coursework.

  • Plan Ahead: Complete assignments ahead of time to minimise stress and handle unexpected events more easily.

  • Use Technology: Digital tools can help you stay organised and manage your academic tasks efficiently.

  • Micro-Learning: Take advantage of short periods, like breaks, to review notes or do some light reading.

  • Effective Study Techniques: Use memorisation strategies and note-taking skills to enhance your learning experience and save time.

  • Stay Calm: If emergencies arise, don’t stress about missing a class. Make up for missed time with self-study later.

Common Questions

Do I need school qualifications?

No. Anyone with B1 English and UK residence can apply.

Can I work while studying?

Yes. You study just 2 days a week.

Is this a real qualification?

Yes. It’s recognised by UK employers and awarded by a UK university.

Is my English good enough?

If you speak and understand at B1 level, you’re likely ready. Our app helps you practise.

Take the First Step

You don’t need a diploma. You don’t need perfect English. You just need the courage to start.

Visit QuickApply University Application Form and apply in 2 minutes.