Money while you learn

There are various options available to help you to afford to study.

The EMA

The educational maintenance allowance (EMA) is a weekly payment of £10, £20 or £30 a week to help with the day-to-day costs when you stay on at school or college - such as travel, books and equipment for your course. More information is in the money section.

Adult Learning Grant

If you are over 19, there is an Adult Learning Grant available which is similar to the EMA as it is means tested. You should talk to your student support officer at college for more information.

Learner Support Funds

Learner support funds (LSF) are for people aged 16 and over to help with the costs of further educational courses. It’s for things like books and equipment, extras like visits or field trips and emergencies that affect your living, learning or personal costs. Talk to your student support officer or head of sixth form to find out more.

Child benefit

If you are in full time education, your family can still continue to claim Child Benefit for you until your 19th birthday

Right to Time off for study

The right to time off for study or training is designed to help 16-17 year olds who got few, if any, qualifications when they were at school, and are now employed in jobs that offer little or no training.

It gives the right to paid time off work to study or train for approved qualifications.

The right is meant to offer a chance to get the skills and nationally-recognised qualifications young people will need for the future.

For more information visit www.dfes.gov.uk/tfst/

Care to learn

This is available to you if you are a young parent (under 19) who wants to return to study. You can claim the money to help with your childcare.

Ask your personal adviser or go to www.dfes.gov.uk/caretolearn for more information.

The Department for Education website has loads of information about all types of financial help while you are at college or in the school sixth form. Visit www.dfes.gov.uk/financialhelp