The Ultimate Guide to Maximising Your ELCAS Funding for a New Civilian Career

Leaving the military? Don’t leave money on the table.

If you’re planning your transition from the Armed Forces to civilian life, ELCAS funding is one of the most powerful tools at your disposal.

This government-backed scheme gives you up to £6,000 towards further education and training – money you can use to gain recognised qualifications, sharpen your leadership credentials, and secure a fulfilling second career.

But the system can be hard to navigate. Deadlines, paperwork, approved providers… it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or unsure about how to use it.

That’s where this guide comes in. Whether you’re 24 months from leaving or already exploring civilian options, we’ll walk you through the essential facts, common pitfalls, and smart strategies to help you get the most from your Enhanced Learning Credits (ELCs).

And if you choose to work with Minerva Elite Performance, we’ll help you handle the process from start to finish – so you can focus on your future.

What is ELCAS?

The Enhanced Learning Credits Administration Service (ELCAS) is a MOD initiative designed to support lifelong learning for Armed Forces personnel. It provides financial contributions towards courses that lead to nationally recognised qualifications at Level 3 or above.

The idea is simple: to help you transition smoothly into a new career with formal, accredited training that builds on your existing experience.

Whether you want to upskill, retrain, or simply get the qualifications to back up your operational expertise, ELCAS makes it affordable.

How much funding can I get?

You can claim up to £2,000 per funding year, for a maximum of three separate claims, totalling £6,000 over your career.

Funding is tiered depending on your length of service:

• Tier 1: £1,000 per claim (for those with 6+ years of eligible service)
• Tier 2: £2,000 per claim (for those with 8+ years of eligible service)

You’ll usually be expected to pay 20% of the course cost yourself.

Who is eligible?

To qualify for ELCAS funding, you must have:

• Completed a minimum of 6 years eligible service (Tier 1) or 8 years (Tier 2)
• Accumulated service after 1 April 2000
• An intention to pursue a Level 3 qualification or higher
• Used the credits within 5 or 10 years of leaving service, depending on your discharge date

⚠️ Left before April 1, 2016? You have 10 years to use your credits. ⚠️ Left on or after April 1, 2016? You have 5 years.

If you’re unsure of your status, we can help you confirm eligibility.

What courses are covered?

Only courses delivered by approved learning providers are eligible for ELCAS support.

At Minerva Elite Performance (MEP), we are a registered and approved provider. This means you can use your ELCs to fund:

Level 7 Strategic Leadership & Management (BTEC)

Whether you’re starting out or climbing the ladder, you’ve got skills and natural flair. Qualities we’ll tap into, to boost your career… and give you all the credits you need to apply for a Masters.

Find out more

MBA, awarded by Cardiff Metropolitan University

The fastest route to an MBA, with one application for two qualifications. Work with us through Level 7, then fast-track onto the Masters programme where you will complete your Research Methods and Dissertation modules with Cardiff Metropolitan University.

Find out more

Level 3 Award in Education & Training (BTEC)

You know your field, now pass on the baton as a teacher or trainer. If you’re already teaching or looking for routes into education, we’re here to refine your skills and set you on the right career path.

Find out more

Level 2 Ofqual-regulated Conflict & Risk Management training

Find out more

We support both classroom and blended/distance learning formats to fit around your availability.

How does MEP help?

We don’t just deliver high-quality training. We support you through the entire funding journey.

From eligibility checks to course selection and ELCAS paperwork, we’ll guide you step by step:

1. Initial guidance: We help you understand which course(s) fit your goals and service background.
2. Funding advice: We explain how to use your ELCAS funding wisely – including how to split claims.
3. Application support: We provide pre-filled provider details, cost breakdowns, and course info to speed up your submission.
4. Ongoing mentoring: Once enrolled, you’ll receive 1:1 coaching, personal tutor support, and career guidance.

We understand the pace and expectations of military learners – and we’re built to match them.

Common concerns (and answers)

Real impact: what this training unlocks

When you complete one of our leadership or management programmes, you’re not just getting a certificate. You’re gaining:

• A formal qualification that employers recognise and respect
• A deeper understanding of your leadership style and strengths
• A clear strategy for the next phase of your career
• The confidence to step into roles with greater responsibility and reward

Our alumni include:

• Former NCOs who now lead operations teams in logistics firms
• Veterans who have launched their own consultancies
• Service leavers promoted into senior leadership within 12 months of completing our MBA track

Step-by-step: How to apply for ELCAS funding

1. Choose your course and provider (MEP is fully approved)
2. Download and complete your ELCAS claim form
3. Attach your course offer letter and cost breakdown (we supply this)
4. Submit via the ELCAS portal and notify your Education Officer
5. Receive confirmation and funding approval
6. Enrol and begin your new career journey

You must apply at least 25 working days before your course start date.

Need help? Just ask us. We’ll walk you through it.

ELCAS is your launchpad

Resettlement isn’t just about leaving the Forces. It’s about stepping into something new, equipped with everything you need to thrive.

The ELCAS scheme exists to help you do that – and Minerva Elite Performance exists to help you do it well.

We believe your operational mindset, leadership experience and practical instincts are valuable assets in the civilian world. Let us help you formalise them, build on them, and unlock the next level of your career.

Get in touch

Ready to get started, or just want to talk through your options?

📞 Call us today: 01432 678123
📧 Email: admissions@mep-ltd.uk

We’ll help you take full advantage of your ELCAS funding – and make your next move your best yet.