Where Can I Do Functional Skills for Free?

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PFS Team August 11, 2025

Where Can I Do Functional Skills for Free? You can do Functional Skills for free through certain colleges, training providers, or government-funded schemes if you meet eligibility requirements such as not already holding a GCSE grade C/4 or higher.

Key Facts

  • Free courses are usually funded by the government.
  • Available at many local colleges and training providers.
  • Providers offer both paid and unpaid versions of functional skills courses.
  • Eligibility depends on age, residency, and previous qualifications.
  • Online and in-person options are available for funded learners.

Check Functional Skills Course Options Here

Pros and Cons of Free Functional Skills

Pros

✅ No course or exam fees.

✅ Access to qualified tutors and resources.

✅ Recognised Ofqual-regulated qualification.

Cons

❌ Limited start dates and availability.

❌ Strict eligibility criteria.

❌ May require regular attendance.

How to Get a Free Functional Skills Course

  • Contact your local college or adult education centre.
  • Check government training schemes in your area.
  • Utilise providers such as Pass Functional Skills.
  • Search online for “free Functional Skills” with your town name.
  • Confirm the course is Ofqual regulated before starting.

Step-by-step: Applying for a Free Functional Skills Course

  1. Identify your subject and level (maths or English, Level 1 or 2).
  2. Contact a local college or funded provider.
  3. Complete an initial assessment to check your level.
  4. Provide proof of eligibility (e.g., ID, qualifications).
  5. Start your free course on the given start date.

Take a Free Initial Assessment to Determine Your Current Level

Checklist for Eligibility

✅ Aged 19+ and living in England.

✅ Do not already have a GCSE grade C/4 or above in the subject.

✅ Meet residency requirements.

✅ Willing to attend scheduled classes or online sessions.

✅ Prepared to take the final exam.

Functional Skills Course FAQs

Can I do Functional Skills for free if I already have a GCSE?

While government funded courses are usually only for those without a GCSE grade C/4 or above in the subject, anyone can access Pass Functional Skills’ free revision resources.

Are free Functional Skills courses online?

Some providers such as Pass Functional Skills offer funded online courses, but availability varies.

Who is eligible for free Functional Skills?

Adults meeting government funding rules, usually based on qualifications and residency.

Are the free qualifications the same as paid ones?

Yes, they are Ofqual regulated and equally recognised.

Enrol on Your Functional Skills Course Today

If you don’t qualify for free courses, Pass Functional Skills offers affordable online learning and fast exam booking starting from £144.

Explore Pass Functional Skills’ Course Options Today

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Written by

Pass Functional Skills Team

We help thousands of students each year with revision, courses and online exams.