Please note that this website has a UK government accesskeys system.
If your child stays in learning after 16, Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) could give them up to £30 a week to help with their costs. It won't affect a penny of any benefits you get.
There’s a world of learning choices open to your child if they’re 16, 17 or 18 and have left or are about to leave compulsory education.
Whatever they want to do, they’ll find a course to suit their ambitions - from office administration to digital media, science and technology to travel, tourism and hospitality.
And they’ll be able to find a way of learning that’s right for them too. This might mean staying in sixth form, going to college or learning at work.
Want to make sure you offer the right advice? Contact your local Connexions service for guidance on courses and career options.
EMA is there to help with your child’s costs if they stay in learning.
If your household income is less than £30,810 then your child can get help with £10, £20 or £30 a week towards the cost of books, travel or equipment.
| Your household income (financial year 2009-10): | How much EMA your child could get |
|---|---|
| up to £20,817 per year | £30 per week |
| £20,818 - £25,521 per year | £20 a week |
| £25,522 - £30,810 per year | £10 a week |
| more than £30,810 per year | no entitlement to EMA |
This money will be paid straight into your child’s bank account. To get their EMA payments, they will need to open an account if they don't have one already.
If your child already receives EMA and they continue their course, they may automatically be eligible for the same payments during 2010/11 – even if your household income has increased.
See ‘Apply for EMA’ to check whether they can get automatic payments under the ‘EMA guarantee’.
Applying for EMA is simple. Follow the link below to get hold of an application form.
For EMA applications for 2010/11, the relevant tax year for your household income is 2009-10
Unless your child qualifies for automatic payments under the EMA guarantee, they’ll need to complete an EMA application form.
Once your child has completed the application, you’ll also need to provide some information, and send evidence of your household income for the last complete (relevant) tax year. For the 2010/11 academic year, the relevant tax year is 2009-10.
Evidence of income can include a Tax Credit Award Notice (TC602) or P60. More details about which evidence you need to send in is on the EMA application form.
To find out more about EMA (and some other types of financial help to stay in learning), call the Learner Support helpline on 0800 121 8989.
The good news is that EMA doesn’t affect any other benefits you may already claim. So you are still free to keep claiming Child Benefit, tax credits and other types of support.
Whatever your child wants to learn, EMA can help
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