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Information on Funding for Post-16 Students
Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA)
The National scheme has now started and schools and colleges have application packs. The National Helpline for students and parents is 0808 101 6219.
The government supports students aged 16 – 19 to enable them to stay in education and reach their potential.
Financial Support for Higher Education Students.
Students in higher education are eligible for a student loan and in some cases, depending on individual income and circumstances, may be eligible for additional grants and allowances.
First year students may get information in respect of student loans from www.studentfinanceengland.co.uk or from www.direct.gov/studentfinance
Second and subsequent year students may get information in respect of student loans from:
Student Support
Graylaw House,
394 High Road,
Leyton. E10 6QE
Telephone: 0845 877 0031 Email: student.support@vtplc.com
A national helpline for all students is available on: 0800 731 9133 from 6.00 a.m. to midnight.
National Support Office: 0800 731 9133 - Student help-line open 6.00 a.m. to midnight.
www.dcsf.gov.uk/studentsupport
Who is eligible?
- Students 16 and over, and under 19 at the start of the academic year
- Students at Sixth Form School or Special Schools
- Anyone who does not receive an Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) and their gross annual income is less than £17,000 per annum
- Anyone who receives an EMA and is still in financial hardship
- Students living in the Borough of Waltham Forest
Can I still apply if I attend a Sixth Form College?
Sixth Form Colleges also receive funding from the Learner Support Fund scheme. You should contact your college for further information.
What do I need to qualify?
Learner Support Fund is a means-tested grant and is issued on a first come first served basis, to qualify you must to be receiving one of the following benefits/income:
- Income Support
- Income-Based Job Seekers Allowance
- Child Tax Credit up to £17,000 per annum
- Working Tax Credit up to £17,000 per annum
- Gross annual income up to £17,000 per annum
What type of help can I apply for?
You can get help with one or more of the following:
- Travel costs
- Child care costs
- Books and Equipment costs
- Field trip costs
- Examination costs
How is the fund paid?
The amount paid to each student will depend on the number of applications received and the level of funding received from the DfE. Applications are assessed on a first come first served basis, therefore it is important that you return your completed application as early as possible with all the required documentary evidence.
Payment is made directly into a current account. You will need to ensure that you have a bank or building society account at the time of your application.
It is important that you complete the application form fully before you send it to us, together with all the required evidence.
Applications received without the correct evidence will incur a delay and in the case of Learner Support Fund, you may lose the entitlement.
Post 16 Transport
What is Post 16 transport?
It is a new government grant to help students who have exceptional transport needs that cannot be provided elsewhere.
Who can get assistance?
Students 16-19 years attending 6th form schools/colleges, and those completing courses started before their 19th birthday.
Students with certain medical conditions may be entitled to receive help with transport, providing they can demonstrate an exceptional circumstance that necessitates assistance.
Can I still get help if I attend Sixth Form College?
You must apply to your college for transport funding in the first instance. If however, you have been refused funding from your college and if the LA considers the reason for refusal is clear and rational you may be eligible for support.
Where do I apply?
You will need to apply to Pupil and Student support in writing to
Pupil and Student Services
Graylaw House,
394 High Road,
Leyton. E10 6QE
