ILR specification: 2021 to 2022

Unique learner number: Field

Definition

The learner's unique learner number (ULN), as held on the Learner Register, obtained from the Learning Records Service (LRS)

Reason Required

To match data for the learner over time and with other data sources, to enable population of the Personal Learning Record and improve data integrity.

Schema Definitions

XML Entity Name
ULN
Field Length
10
Data type
xs:long
Minimum occurrences
1
Maximum occurrences
1

Valid Entries

Must contain a value in the range 1000000000 to 9999999999

Notes

  • Providers should make every effort to obtain a ULN for all learners including those undertaking Community Learning and learners who do not receive funding from the ESFA. If a ULN cannot be obtained for a learner then 9999999999 must be returned, except where an apprenticeship is funded through a contract for services with the employer (FundModel = 36 and LearnDelFAMType = ACT1).

  • A ULN of 9999999999 must not be used where an apprenticeship is funded through a contract for services with the employer (FundModel = 36 and LearnDelFAMType = ACT1).

  • A ULN must be returned for all learners financed by an Advanced Learner Loan.

  • ULNs are obtained from the LRS Organisation Portal or by contacting the Learning Records Service. Providers experiencing problems obtaining a ULN should contact the team at LRS.Support@education.gov.uk .

  • A ULN of 9999999999 can be used temporarily until 1 January of the current year whilst a provider is registering the learner for a ULN, except where an apprenticeship is funded through a contract for services with the employer (FundModel = 36 and LearnDelFAMType = ACT1).

  • After the 1st January of the current year , a ULN of 999999999 will only be allowed in the following cases:

    • for learners with only Community Learning or non-funded learning aims (apart from those financed by an Advanced Learner Loan)

    • if the learning aim start date is less than 60 calendar days before the file preparation date

    • if the learning aim is less than 5 days in planned or actual duration

    • for OLASS learners, where in exceptional circumstances there may be security reasons why a ULN cannot be issued. Providers should refer such cases to the LRS.