ELCAS: Enhanced Learning Credits for Armed Forces Personnel

ELCAS stands for the Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Service. It’s a Ministry of Defence (MOD) scheme designed to promote lifelong learning among service personnel and veterans, providing financial support for higher-level training and qualifications. In other words: it’s your ticket to upskilling, reskilling, and giving yourself the training needed for a rewarding career.

elcas electrical student

Why Does ELCAS Exist?

Leaving the military can be daunting. New routines, new lingo, and a whole new world of work. ELCAS is here to smooth that transition, helping you turn your military discipline and experience into new skills to attain qualifications to start a new career.

How Does ELCAS Work?

ELCAS provides financial support for approved courses at Level 3 or above (think advanced vocational qualifications, diplomas, or even degrees) with an approved provider. You can claim funding in up to three separate financial years, so you can spread your learning out or go all-in, depending on your career plans.

The Funding Breakdown

Lower Tier: £1,000 per claim if you’ve served at least 6 years.
Upper Tier: £2,000 per claim if you’ve served 8 years or more.
Maximum Claims: Three in total, each in a different financial year.
Coverage: ELCAS pays up to 80% of your course fees. You cover the remaining 20%.
Eligible Courses: Must be Level 3 or above and delivered by an ELCAS-approved provider.

What’s Not Covered?

Travel, accommodation, and course materials aren’t included, so budget for those extras.
Only one claim per financial year.

Who is Eligible for ELCAS?

Eligibility is all about your service record and timing:

Serving Personnel: Must be registered with the ELC scheme and have at least 6 years of eligible service.
Veterans: You can apply if you left the forces within the last 5 to 10 years (depending on your discharge date and circumstances).
Medical Discharge: Special provisions apply. Check the latest MOD guidance.
Residency: Must meet UK residency requirements.

If you’re unsure, chat to your Education Staff or Single Service Representative. They’re the gatekeepers for all things ELCAS.

What Can You Study with ELCAS?

The world is your oyster, as long as your course is Level 3 or higher and with an approved provider. Popular pathways include:

Building Services: Gas, electrical, plumbing, heating, and renewables (Our bread and butter!).
Management & Leadership: Perfect for those NCOs and officers looking to formalise their experience.
Close Protection & Security: For those who want to put their military skills to use in the private sector.
Engineering, IT, Health & Safety, and more!

Logic4training is an approved ELCAS provider (ELC Provider No. 1766), offering a range of courses designed for ex-forces looking to break into the building services sector. You can find all of our ELCAS-approved courses on the ELCAS website.

If you are looking for a training course outside of the building services, you can use the ELCAS learning provider search to help find the training for you.

Step-by-Step: How to Claim Your ELCAS Funding

Feeling overwhelmed? Here’s the ELCAS process, broken down:

1. Check Your Eligibility

Confirm you’ve got the required service time.
Register for the ELC scheme if you haven’t already.

2. Pick Your Course and Provider

Choose a Level 3 (or higher) course with an approved provider.
Browse Logic4training’s ELCAS-eligible courses.

3. Get a Claim Authorisation Note (CAN)

Apply for your CAN through the ELCAS website.
You’ll need this document to enrol. No CAN, no course.

4. Enrol and Pay Your Contribution

Provide your CAN to Logic4training (or your chosen provider).
Pay your 20% contribution. ELCAS covers the rest.

5. Complete Your Course

Dive in, learn new skills, and smash your assessments.
Use ClubLogic to keep your knowledge sharp.

6. Submit Your Post-Course Evaluation

Quick feedback for the MOD. Don’t skip this, or you might jeopardise future claims.

Career Paths After the Forces: What’s Hot Right Now?

The building services sector is facing a huge skill gap, and there’s never been a better time for ex-forces personnel to get involved. Your military background, discipline, teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving make you a natural fit for this dynamic industry, where those very skills are in high demand.

Why Building Services?

The construction and building services industries are crying out for skilled professionals. As the sector modernises and expands, opportunities are opening up not just on the tools, but also in management, surveying, and technical roles. Retraining in the trades provides a career path that suits your ambitions.

In-Demand Roles & Logic4training Pathways

Electrician
Electricians are the backbone of modern infrastructure, working on everything from domestic rewires to commercial installations and the latest smart technologies. Our electrical courses cover everything from wiring regulations to electric vehicle charging point installation, helping you carve out a niche in this ever-evolving field.

Plumbers and Gas Engineers
Plumbers and gas engineers are essential for every home and business. Logic4training’s comprehensive plumbing and gas training packages are ideal for ex-forces personnel looking to retrain and secure a stable, rewarding career. With the UK’s skill gap growing year on year, the demand for qualified gas engineers is at an all-time high.

F-Gas Engineer
F-Gas engineers are essential for the installation, maintenance, and servicing of refrigeration, air-conditioning, and heat pump systems that use fluorinated greenhouse gases. With increasing regulations and demand for energy-efficient cooling, qualified F-Gas engineers are in short supply.

Renewables Specialist

With the green revolution in full swing, renewables specialists are in high demand. Logic4training provides Renewables Training in technologies like heat pumps and solar PV, enabling you to future-proof your skills and tap into a sector that’s only going to grow.

Why Choose Logic4training for Your ELCAS Course?

1. We Know the Score

Logic4training has helped countless ex-forces personnel make the leap into civilian trades. We understand the unique strengths and challenges you bring, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

2. Modern Training Centres

Our centres in Northolt, Basildon, Luton, and Sittingbourne are purpose-built, with the latest kit and a relaxed, professional vibe. No stuffy classrooms, just real-world learning.

3. Experienced Trainers

Our trainers have years of industry experience and a sense of humour to match. We know training can be tough, so we keep things light without skimping on standards.

4. Proven Results

Don’t just take our word for it. Check out Darren’s story. After 24 years in the Army, he retrained with Logic4training and now installs wet rooms for the elderly and disabled. The transition? “The tutor was phenomenal… I feel more confident for having a look at it all. Thank you.”

Conclusion: Making the Most of ELCAS

Navigating your transition from military to civilian life is a big step, but with ELCAS in your kitbag, you’re already ahead of the game. To truly maximise your Enhanced Learning Credits and set yourself up for long-term success, keep these essential tips in mind:

Plan Ahead: The ELCAS application process isn’t instant, especially if you’re approaching the 10-year deadline after leaving the forces. Start early, get your paperwork in order, and avoid any last-minute scrambles.
Think Strategically: Remember, you’re entitled to three ELCAS claims. Use them wisely to build a clear career progression—perhaps starting with a Level 3 qualification, then moving up to Level 4 or 5 as your ambitions grow.
Budget for Extras: While ELCAS covers up to 80% of your course fees, you’ll need to fund your own travel, accommodation, and course materials. Factor these costs into your planning so there are no surprises down the line.
Ask for Support: You’re not expected to do this alone. The Logic4training team is always ready to offer guidance—whether you need help choosing the right course, understanding the ELCAS process, or mapping out your new career path.

At Logic4training, we’ve helped many ex-forces personnel take their next steps with confidence. Our experienced trainers, modern facilities, and dedicated support make us the ideal partner for your ELCAS-funded journey. Ready to take charge of your future? Explore our ELCAS-eligible courses and let’s make your next mission a success.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is ELCAS and who can use it?

ELCAS (Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Service) is a MOD scheme offering financial support for higher-level learning to serving and ex-armed forces personnel. You need at least 6 years’ eligible service to claim.

How much will ELCAS pay towards my course?

ELCAS covers up to 80% of course fees, up to £1,000 per year (6+ years’ service) or £2,000 per year (8+ years’ service), for a maximum of three years.

What courses can I do with ELCAS?

Any course at Level 3 or above, provided it’s with an ELCAS-approved provider. Logic4training offers a wide range of eligible courses in gas, electrical, plumbing, and renewables.

How do I apply for ELCAS funding?

Register with the ELC scheme, pick your course, apply for a Claim Authorisation Note (CAN) via the ELCAS website, and provide this to your training provider when enrolling.

Why choose Logic4training for my ELCAS course?

We’re an approved ELCAS provider with years of experience helping ex-forces personnel transition into civilian trades. Our modern centres, expert trainers, and ClubLogic online platform make learning accessible, enjoyable, and effective.

Back to Insights