Provider management

Q1: What is the mechanism for FE providers to join the OfS Register?

Updated 14 December 2023

A: FE colleges will be able to apply for either of the existing OfS registration categories. In addition, the OfS is consulting on introducing a permanent third category of registration for learning providers that have been under the regulatory oversight of the ESFA for ALL-funded courses.

The OfS will deliver the regulatory approach for any third category from academic year 2027/28. In the interim, the existing ALL funding system will remain in operation for providers that have not registered with the OfS under either of the existing categories.

Q2: If a provider wants to extend delivery beyond its current ALL offering, will they need to change to an existing registration category?

Updated 14 December 2023

A: Currently, yes, they will need to be registered under the category of either “approved” or “approved/fee cap”.

Q3: What should providers do if they are not currently registered with the Office for Students (OfS)? 

Updated 18 April 2024

A: The OfS is the independent regulator of higher education in England. By law, OfS must regulate providers in a way that is proportionate to risk.

To access the LLE from January of academic year 2025/26, providers must be registered in one of the OfS registration categories:

• approved
• approved (fee cap)

To find out more about registering with the OfS, please email regulation@officeforstudents.org.uk or call the OfS on 0117 931 7305.

The registration process can take approximately 12 to 18 months to complete.