Part-Time University Studies for Adults in the UK – Just 2 Days a Week/ Weekend or Hybrid-Online. Complete Studies in 4 Years.

Want to study at university in the UK but can’t do it full-time? Now you can study part-time and earn a diploma from a recognised UK university. These studies take only 2 days per week/ weekends and you get your university diploma after 4 years, just like full-time students!

With a full UK Government student funding available and free application tools from UniEdu, you can access this option easier than ever. Whether you work full-time, care for family, or didn’t finish high school, these part-time university courses might be perfect for you.

How Part-Time Studies for Adults in the UK Work?

At most universities in the UK part-time studies work almost the same as full-time options - Monday-Friday classes during normal working hours - only 50% less hours and 2x longer studies overall. This is not helpfull to anyone who works or cares for family.

However, some institutuons have recently created study options far more suitable for most adults, who left education long ago but would now like to complete this part of their lives at a higher level.

You’ll earn the same qualification as full-time students — but on a schedule that fits your life. For example:

  • One day on campus (for example on Mondays 9:30-16:30)

  • One day online from home (Tuesdays 9:30-16:30)

In some cases, both study days are on campus - this depends on location and the course you choose.

You may also choose weekend-only formats, such as:

  • Saturday on campus + Sunday online (or both days on campus)

This format allows you to work, manage your responsibilities, and still earn a full UK university diploma.

Best Study Locations in the UK

Part-time university studies for adults are available in:

  • London – there are 8 campuses in various locations

  • Birmingham – 3 campuses, centrally

  • Manchester – 2 campuses in or near city centre

  • Leeds – 2 campuses in city centre

All campuses are easily accessible by public transport. 

What Subjects Can I Study?

You’ll start with a subject-specific Year Zero to build confidence in English, writing, and academic skills. After that, you continue with your chosen subject.

Popular part-time studies for adults include:

Course choice is still somewhat limited and availability depends on your location but also on the timing of your application, so it makes sense to reserve your place as early as possible.

Who Can Apply for Part-Time University?

You can apply and start your studies in September/ October, January or April if you:

  • Are 18 or older

  • Live in the UK with settled or pre-settled status or a UK nationality or other valid residence status

  • Have not completed a UK university studies before

  • Have at least intermediate (B1-level) English 

  • Have a CV with 5-year history, even with gaps in employment

You do not need a high school diploma to apply.

Costs and UK Government Student Finance

⚠️ 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 nothing upfront. You only repay after graduation if you earn over £25,000/year.

Examples:

  • Earn £26,000? Repay about £7/month

  • Earn £27,000? Repay about £15/month

  • Earn less than £25,000? Pay nothing

More information on how Student Finance England works can be found here.

What Qualification Will You Get?

You’ll graduate with a full bachelor’s degree from one of recognised UK university partners:

  • Oxford Brookes University

  • Ulster University

  • Solent University

  • Bath Spa University

  • Canterbury Christ Church University

  • University of Suffolk

  • London Metropolitan University

The diploma you’ll earn is the same as full-time students. This opens the door to better job opportunities, career change, or further study. 

How to Apply – Step-by-Step

Application Steps:

  1.  Open QuickApply University Application Form

  2. Choose your course, city, and preferred start date and complete the form

  3. Attend a short 3-hour assessment (online or in person), which includes:

    • A computer-based English test

    • A short writing task

    • A short interview

You only need B1 English (intermediate level) to pass.

Prepare with Our Free App

Download the UniEdu app to practise your English before the assessment. It includes real examples of the test format. 

You can get it here.

Why Apply with UniEdu?

  • Official UK university partner since 2013

  • British Council certified support that has already helped over 5000 students in the UK

  • No hidden fees, no surprises, quit anytime

  • Friendly support team available online 7 days a week

How UniEdu helps you:

  • Choose and apply to the right course, location and schedule

  • Practise for your English interview, test and writing assessment

  • Apply for maximum Student Finance available to you, each year of your studies

  • Solve ongoing administrative matters during your studies, where possible

All services are free and a matter of priority to us.

Common Questions

Do I need a high school diploma to apply?

No. You don’t need school qualifications to apply.

Is this a real university degree?

Yes — awarded by accredited UK universities.

Can I work while studying?

Yes — courses are designed for working adults.

Is my English good enough?

If you speak B1-level English (intermediate), you’re likely eligible.

Ready to Take the First Step?

You don’t need perfect English.

You don’t need a diploma.

You just need the confidence to begin.

Apply in 2 minutes at QuickApply University Application Form — no cost, no pressure. Let us help you take the first step.