FINANCIAL HELP WHEN STUDYING
If you are under 19, you do not usually have to pay for a college course. However, financial support for students can be very complicated and may depend on the type of course you are studying, your age and circumstances. If you are thinking of doing a course it is worth getting advice about what funding may be available to you. If you are thinking of going to university, details of the funding available can be found on the student finance direct website or talk to student services at your college/university.
Educational Maintenance Allowances (ema’s) are available to support young people staying in education from age 16. If your household income is £30,810 per year or less, you can apply for an allowance of up to £30 per week, paid into your bank account.
If you are living independently and studying, you should still be able to get an ema if you qualify, based on your own income. If you are claiming other benefits e.g. Income Support or Housing Benefit, these should not be affected. Contact the ema helpline or website for more details.
If you are 19+ you are not eligable for an ema, but you may be able to claim an Adult Learner Grant of up to £30 per week depending on your income and your course. Ask at your college, Castlegate, or look at the direct gov website.
Colleges also have Learner Support Funds which may be able to help if you are struggling financially. For information on money to learn, contact Learn Direct, or look at the direct gov website.
If you are a young parent and want to get back into education you may be able to get help with childcare costs.
It may be possible to claim benefits while in education - depending on your age, circumstances and the level of study. Get benefits advice from Castlegate, CAB, Future Prospects, or student services at your college. If you are already claiming benefits, you should get advice on whether or not they will be affected by starting a course.