Is There Funding For The NEBOSH General Certificate?

Before studying for a NEBOSH General Certificate many applicants ask whether funding is available. The simple answer to that question is, yes.

Though dependent on individual circumstances, various types of financial support are on offer. In order to help establish who qualifies for what, we have outlined these avenues below…

Charities and volunteer groups

NEBOSH have teamed up with the Charities Safety Group (CSG), a membership body and support network for those with health and safety responsibilities who are not necessarily specialists in the field.

Between them they have sought to assist small charities and voluntary sector organisations to get health and safety qualified. Working with course providers they have ensured free training is available for those who meet specific criteria.

Several years into the scheme, a great many qualifications have been earned this way.

Before any candidates are enrolled their application must first be accepted by the CSG itself. To apply, charities should contact NEBOSH's Customer Support Team via e-mail (info@nebosh.org.uk) or phone 0116 263 4700.

Ministry of Defence Enhanced Learning Credits

Elsewhere significant discounts are available to those who have served in the UK Armed Forces. Both serving and former members qualify for grants towards any NEBOSH Certificate or Diploma level course.

The exact level of monetary assistance will vary depending on your stint in the military, but contributions could amount to as much as 80% of the total value. Note, that ELC credits will only apply when undertaking studies with an approved course provider like Astutis. Find out more about using ELC funds for NEBOSH courses with Astutis.

Professional and career development loan

As of January 2019, applications for the Professional and Career Development loan are closed. However, it is still worth checking the government website in case this or a similar initiative is made available in the future.

These are interest-free loans for those aiming to get a professional qualification within the UK. In the case of the NEBOSH General Certificate candidates would begin repayments one month after finishing their course. A great way to spread the cost without having to pay interest!

Anyone seeking a loan would need to study in conjunction with a course provider on the scheme register, such as Astutis. Grants must be repaid in full, whether or not you finish your course or pass or fail.

CITB Funding

The Construction Industry Training Board offer a wide range of grants to companies working within the construction industry and – unsurprisingly - registered with themselves. These include assistance for what are known as short-period qualifications, where up to £600 can be claimed to put towards qualifications like the NEBOSH General Certificate.

Candidates must register via their CITB Approved Training Organisation (Employer), after which the Construction Training Register will be updated and payment made within 28 days.

For further information on available grants and how to apply for them, visit the CITB website.

Unfortunately, there aren't any funding options for international learners. But it's always worth doing your own research to see what's out there!