Impact Evaluation of 24+ Advanced Learner Loans Research Report

This document describes an evaluation of the 24+ Advanced Learner Loans policy in the UK, which was implemented to encourage adults to pursue Level 3 and Level 4 qualifications with the aim of enhancing course benefits and improving educational quality. The evaluation utilized administrative data, surveys, and interviews to assess the policy's impact on learner participation, behavior, motivation, and provider behavior. Findings revealed a decrease in learner volumes on eligible courses, with varying effects on learner volumes and achievement rates. The loans facilitated more study options, increased learner engagement, and led providers to adapt their marketing strategies. Additionally, the transition to a loans-based funding system slightly reduced completion and achievement rates, but also enabled learners to pursue higher qualifications and study full-time. Satisfaction among loan-funded learners was high, and the policy positively influenced employability outcomes, with loan recipients more likely to be in skilled roles. Despite these benefits, challenges persist, including misconceptions about the loans, a decline in perceived value for money, and a decrease in learner volumes, particularly among private providers. The evaluation underscores the importance of the loans in providing educational opportunities, but suggests that further research is needed to fully understand their long-term impact on learner outcomes. **This summary was written by an AI model and therefore should not be considered a definitive summary of the report. If you are aware of inaccuracies, please email evaluation.registry@cabinetoffice.gov.uk.**

Description

• Lead department: Department for Education (DfE)
• Evaluation stage: A complete evaluation report
• Other departments: No other departments listed
• Evaluation types: Impact evaluation
• Impact methods: Quasi-experimental method
• Quasi-experimental methods: Difference-in-difference
• Grant information: This intervention is not distributing funding via a grant
• Government Major Project information: This intervention is not a major project
• Policies: No policies provided

Event Dates

• Event Name: Publication of final results
• Event date: October 2018

Evaluation Costs

• Cost: Not provided

Evaluation sharing

• Link(s) to published report(s): Yes
• Links to evaluation plans: No link provided
• Findings: Not provided
• Permission to share confirmed: Yes