Government-Funded PT Courses Online: What You Need to Know
If you’re searching for government-funded PT courses online, you’re not alone. In fact, since the pandemic, thousands of people across the UK have looked into retraining for a career in fitness—and the idea of doing it all online sounds ideal.
But here’s the truth: there are currently no fully online government-funded PT courses available in the UK. While it was possible during the pandemic, government policy has shifted. Here’s what that means for you—and how you can still access a high-quality, funded personal training qualification.
Why Did Government-Funded Online Courses Disappear?
During the Covid-19 pandemic, the government temporarily allowed fully online delivery for many funded courses, including personal training. It was a necessary and practical solution at the time—with lockdowns and social distancing, online was often the only way for people to retrain safely.
Now that society has returned to normal (whatever that means), the Department for Education has revised its funding rules. To qualify for government support (like the Advanced Learner Loan), Government-Funded PT courses must now be delivered either in person or through blended learning. This ensures students gain hands-on experience and meet the practical standards expected in the fitness industry.
What Is Blended Learning?
Blended learning is a flexible course format that combines face-to-face training with online learning. At Fitasylum, our flagship funded course—the Level 3 Gym Instructing and Personal Training Diploma—follows this structure:
11 face-to-face days with expert tutors
Online webinars and coursework in between sessions
1-to-1 business coaching to help you hit the ground running after qualifying
This approach gives you the best of both worlds: convenience and flexibility, plus the confidence that comes from practical experience.
Why This Change Is Actually Good News
While an all-online PT course might seem easier, it doesn’t always give you the real-world preparation you need. Blended learning offers:
Stronger job prospects
Better learning outcomes
Face-to-face practice with coaching and assessment
Plus, qualifications like our Level 3 PT Diploma are awarded by Active IQ, regulated by Ofqual, and recognised by CIMSPA—so you know you're getting a course that meets industry standards.
Can You Still Get Government Funding?
Yes. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for the Advanced Learner Loan to fund your PT qualification with no upfront cost. You only begin to repay the loan once you’re earning over £27,295 per year (correct as of 2025).
At Fitasylum, our Level 3 Gym Instructing and Personal Training course is fully covered by this funding.
How to Get Started
If you were hoping to find a fully online funded PT course, we hope this helped clarify things. While the all-online option is no longer available, a blended government-funded PT course still offers flexibility, credibility, and career-ready skills.
👉 Explore our government-funded courses now and see how you can turn your passion for fitness into a recognised qualification.
