Fri Sep 20 12:46:25 UTC 2024: ## DfE Announces New Qualification Funding Approval Rules for 2024-25

**London, UK -** The Department for Education (DfE) has announced new rules regarding funding approval for qualifications in the upcoming 2024-25 funding year. The changes aim to streamline the process and ensure timely updates for providers.

Key changes include:

* **Automated End Date Updates:** The DfE will automatically update the funding approval end date and last date for new starts (LDNS) for qualifications based on changes made in the Ofqual Register of Regulated Qualifications. These changes will be reflected on the next date of publication of funded qualification offers.
* **Review Requests:** Awarding organizations can request a review of funding approval for qualifications that are not affected by the funding approval moratorium. Requests must be submitted by the second to last Monday of the month before the funding approval cycle month.
* **Appeals:** If a qualification is not approved for funding, the awarding organization can appeal the decision with new evidence by the deadline for the next funding approval cycle.
* **Funding Rate and Loan Amount Reviews:** Awarding organizations can request reviews of funding rates and maximum loan amounts for qualifications if significant changes affect these factors. These requests must be submitted with a rate review request form and will be reviewed during the Autumn and Spring funding approval cycles.
* **Automated Guided Learning Hour Updates:** The ‘GuidedLearningHours’ data field on Find a learning aim will reflect the guided learning hours entered on the Ofqual register. The ‘funded GuidedLearningHours’ data field will change only once the increased funding rate comes into effect.
* **Structural Changes:** Awarding organizations are required to notify the DfE about any significant structural changes, such as mergers or acquisitions, that could impact qualification approvals.

The DfE emphasizes that it is the responsibility of awarding organizations to maintain accurate information about qualifications in the Ofqual Register of Regulated Qualifications, including any details that could affect funding rates. The changes will apply to all qualifications approved for funding, except those in areas where the AEB is devolved.

The new rules are designed to ensure that qualifications are accurately reflected in the DfE’s systems and that providers have access to up-to-date information on funding approval status, end dates, and funding rates. Awarding organizations are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new rules and contact the DfE if they have any questions.

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