Apply for funding for a regulated qualification
How awarding organisations can apply for funding for their Ofqual-regulated qualifications using the qualifications funding and approvals service tool (QFAST).
Applies to England
Awarding organisations can use the qualifications funding and approvals service tool (QFAST) to:
- apply for funding for a new qualification
- make changes to technical or alternative academic qualifications
- apply for a moratorium exemption application
From September 2025, the tool will replace GalaxKey, CogniSoft and Excel forms.
Before you start
Check that your qualification meets the eligibility criteria set out in the funding approval manual.
For each new application, you will need information about:
- your qualification, including:
- what level it is
- who it’s aimed at
- the start date
- any qualifications it’s replacing
- an estimate of potential uptake by providers
- the sector subject area (SSA) it comes under
Accessing the tool
There are several steps to go through to get access and set up the tool.
Finding your UKPRN
You will need a UKPRN for your organisation to access the service tool. You can register (or check if you already have one) through the UK register of learning providers (UKRLP).
To complete your registration, you will need the:
- IDs of the legal entity being registered (typically a Companies House number)
- legal address and phone number of your organisation
- email address of your organisation’s superuser
Once you submit your request, you will get a confirmation email and the UKRLP team will validate your request. This can take up to 3 working days.
When you have your UKPRN, you will be able to create a DfE sign-in and link your UKPRN to the QFAST tool.
Adding QFAST to your DFE sign-in account
To add the QFAST service to your user account:
- Sign into the my services section of DfE sign-in and go into ‘Add services to my account’.
- If prompted, choose your UKPRN and organisation.
- Locate ‘Qualifications Funding Service’ and add it to your account.
- Your organisation superuser will need to approve your request.
DfE cannot approve these requests. They are controlled by your organisation and need to be approved by your superuser.
Submitting your information
Once your superuser has approved your request, you will be able to access QFAST and submit an application for a new qualification.
Navigating QFAST: an introduction for awarding organisations
Next steps
Once you have submitted your application, it will be reviewed and DfE will:
- let you know the outcome
- ask you for further information before making a decision (where necessary)
Get help
You can email us at qualifications.approval@education.gov.uk if you are struggling to access or use QFAST.