LIBF blog How is LIBF different from The Open University?

Distance learning allows you to study from anywhere, rather than requiring you to attend physical lectures and seminars on campus.

Over the last decade, there has been a significant growth in distance learners. In May 2023, the UK government reported a 38.7% increase in students studying via distance learning between 2015/16 and 2021/22. So it's not surprising that The Open University (OU) is no longer the only option if you want to study online.

LIBF: flexible start dates

At LIBF, you can start your course on any day of the year, whenever it most suits your life. When you start, you'll join a cohort of students studying the same module as you, which means you'll be part of a community from your very first day.

The Open University: fixed start dates

Most Open University modules start in October, which is the start of the traditional academic year in line with most traditional UK universities. Some modules also have a February or April start date.

LIBF: tuition fee loans or self-fund monthly, annually or in full

LIBF students can apply for tuition fee loans. Students who self-fund can pay monthly, annually or in full – whatever you choose, the total cost is the same, without interest on instalments. If you choose to pay in full at the start of your studies, you'll receive a tuition fee reduction of up to 10% depending on your study level and duration. We also offer postgraduate scholarships for our UK students.

The Open University: tuition fee loans or pay per module

Students at The Open University can apply for a tuition fee loan, or they can apply for an 'OU Budget Account Loan' that can be repaid in full or in monthly instalments plus interest. They also accept employee sponsorship, and students can apply for bursaries, grants and scholarships.

LIBF: academic and learning support

At LIBF, you'll get a personal tutor who will answer your questions within 48 hours and provide supervision for your thesis. You can also book consultation hours with your tutor and with study coaches, who can advise you on study methods, time management, and motivation.

The Open University: academic and peer support

Your tutor at The Open University is available for academic advice or guidance. Your specific tutor will let you know when and how you can contact them. The OU also has subject-specific Student Support Teams who can answer questions you might have about your studies.

LIBF: central London

At LIBF, our central London campus is home to a physical library and student service teams like our HE support team and careers team. The campus is close to London Bridge and London Waterloo, two of London’s biggest train stations, and multiple underground stations – making it easy to visit if you're ever in the city and looking for a quiet spot to study.

The Open University: Milton Keynes

The OU campus is in Milton Keynes, 80km north of Central London. Their campus is home to their university library, Students' Association, and student service teams.