This page contains information on the Educational Maintenance Allowance (EMA) for 2007/08. Background
The EMA was introduced nationally from September 2004.
It is managed by the Learning and Skills Council (LSC).
It is paid to young people entering Year 12 or continuing into Year 13 in further education in September. Whether you qualify for a payment will depend on an assessment of your family's household income.
It is available for many young people for two years.
It is available for some young people for three years.
It includes a weekly payment and periodic bonuses paid to the student as long as they keep to the terms of a 'learning agreement' signed with their school or college.
Can I get it?
You might be eligible if you are 16, 17, or 18 and about to leave, or have already left compulsory education and are thinking of:
- Joining an LSC-funded EZE programme
- Starting a full-time further education course at a college or school, or
- Becoming a programme-led apprentice
- Your annual household income used for assessment purposes is below the relevant EMA threshold (for the tax year 06/07 - £3,810)
For more information on thresholds visit the EMA website or telephone the helpline.
How much is it?
EMA paymnets are £30, £20 or £10 per week. The exact amount you receive will depend on your household income. There are also bonuses that could be paid on top of your weekly allowance. These bonuses are paid if you do well on your course or learning programme and meet certain targets.
How do I apply?
You can apply on-line at the Dfes Education Maintenace Allowance website, your local school, college or learning provider. Alternatively your Connexions personal advisor should have application forms. Otherwise call the helpline on 0808 101 6219.
More details can be found about the Education Maintenance Allowance in the 'Other websites' section of this page.
Post-16 travel assistance
If you are studying at a South Gloucestershire school you may be eligible for 50% of the cost of using public transport where parental gross income is below £20,817.
Sixth form students attending South Gloucestershire schools are able to purchase a concessionary place at a subsidised rate of £93.50 for two terms (equivalent to one old term) on existing contracted transport to South Gloucestershire schools, providing spare seats are available. Concessionary seats are only available at the beginning and end of the school day.
To read more information and download an application form please see the 'Read more' section on this page.