Funding stream · 2025–26

Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs)

Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) are level 4 and 5 qualifications approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) as meeting employer-defined standards. They sit between A levels / T Levels and degrees.

Levels

4 to 5

Approved by

IfATE

Funded via

ASF / loans / HE

Purpose

Higher technical skills

Funding routes

Depending on the qualification and the learner, an eligible HTQ can be funded through the Adult Skills Fund, an Advanced Learner Loan, or higher education student finance. Check the route for each specific qualification.

Why they matter

HTQs are part of the drive to grow higher technical skills and offer a respected alternative to a traditional degree, with clear employer backing.

Indicative summary only. Always confirm against the official source documents before making funding or compliance decisions.

Official sources

Higher Technical Qualifications — DfE / IfATE

Need this applied to real numbers?

Use the funding calculator and eligibility checker — or bring your anonymised data into the college workspace.

Open the calculator Check eligibility