Education Maintenance Allowance

EMA is part of the government’s commitment to giving all young people the opportunity to fulfil their potential.

The government believes that with this financial support, young people can improve on going to and doing well in education.

Currently, full-time students whose family income is under £30,000 per year are entitled to a payment of between £10 and £30 per week and occasional bonuses of £100 for doing well on their chosen course. EMA is subject to the student entering and meeting the terms of a contract with their school or college. The contract sets out their learning goals, attendance and code of conduct. You can find out more about this contract from your school or college.

Who can apply for the EMA?

• Any young person who reaches the age of 16 between 1^st September 2005 and 31^st August 2006 and enters year 12 of full time education in the 2006/2007 academic year; or
• Any young person who reaches the age of 17 between 1^st September 2005 and 31^st August 2006 and enters year 13 of full time education in the 2006/2007 academic year.

When do they apply?

Applicants for EMA in 06/07 academic year can be made from April 2006 onwards. Students should be encouraged to apply as soon as they have all the information required to make their application.

Application packs can be ordered from the website and the Young Person helpline. They are also available in schools and colleges and Connexions Centres.

How do I apply?

Young people can obtain an application pack by calling 080 810 16 2 19 or by pre-registering on the EMA website.

For further information check out the contacts link