Hard Close (R14) Content Hub

Resources to guide training providers through the October hard close period

Confident, compliant, and stress-free R14 submissions start here

From expert articles to our downloadable Hard Close Survival Guide and printable checklist, discover everything you need to prepare for R14, avoid common errors, and approach the October deadline with calm confidence.

2-Oct-17-2025-02-01-14-7490-PM

SMOOTH, STRESS-FREE R14 SUBMISSION

Free Hard Close Survival Guide Download

Your printable roadmap and R14 preparation checklist - built by Bud's compliance experts.

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Hard Close Articles

Understanding hard close  Feature Image  Hard Close Content Hub 2025

Understanding hard close (R14): What it means for training providers in 2025

What is the R14 hard close, and why is it so critical for training providers? Learn how ILR submissions, funding reconciliation, and performance data all come together — and how Bud helps you stay submission-ready.

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Prepare for hard close  Feature Image  Hard Close Content Hub 2025

How to prepare for R14: Four ways to stay organised in the run-up to hard close

Hard close can be a challenging time of year, but it doesn’t have to be a chaotic scramble. What can you do to prepare in advance? We brought in the experts to find out. Read on for four ways to better prepare for your next R14.

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Simplify hard close  Feature Image  Hard Close Content Hub 2025

Take the 'hard' out of hard close: How Bud simplifies R14 for training providers 

Bud helps providers turn submission stress into confident compliance. Our end-to-end platform for funded training providers simplifies every stage of the learner journey - so R14 is just another calm, controlled submission.

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"[With Bud] I knew the data I needed would be accurate and I knew exactly how to easily access the evidence. I’m absolutely thrilled to say there were 0% errors!” 

Ready to simplify your next R14 submission?

Talk to our team about how Bud can help your organisation achieve confident compliance.

Quick Reference: ILR Submission Calendar 2025 - 2026

Never miss an ILR deadline. Bookmark Bud’s reference guide for all 2025–2026 Individualised Learner Record (ILR) submission dates — including R14 Hard Close.

Remaining ILR Return Dates in 2025

ILR Return

Deadline

Which data is required?

R14

23 October 2025

Final ILR submission for the previous year (2024/25)

R03

6 November 2025

Submit data for October 2025/26

R04

4 December 2025

Submit data for November 2025/26


Read more: Get the full 2025 - 2026 calendar of ILR submission dates.

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The countdown is on

Are you ready to submit your final ILR return of 2025? 

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"October 23rd may seem like a while away, but it will come round fast. Staying on top of things right from the beginning of the learner journey is crucial."