Education MaintenanceAllowance Leaflet
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Do you want to stay in education next August but you're worried about money?
If you decide to stay on at school or go to college from August 2004 you may be able to get an Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA).
What is an EMA?
It is a weekly payment worth up to 30 for students who are aged 16 and planning to continue in post-compulsory education from August 2004.
There are also two bonuses of 150 if you remain on your course and make good progress with your learning.
Payments will be made direct to your bank account.
Who will be entitled to an EMA?
You can get an EMA if:
- You have reached your school leaving date.
- Your household income is 30,000 or below.
- You are on non-advanced further education courses (up to SVQ level 3) in fifth year at schools and FE colleges.
EMA's will be available in 2004/05 to 16 year olds, 16 & 17 year olds in 2005/06, 16 18 year olds in 2008/07.
Will EMA affect my family's or my own benefits?
EMA is paid in addition to other support and benefits provided by the government. Your family won't lose out on other money if you get an EMA.
It will not affect your parent's Child Benefit.
It won't affect any money you earn from a part-time job either.
What do I need to do?
You must attend all your course sessions and sign an EMA Learning Agreement with your school or college. This agreement will set out what is expected of you in terms of:
- Attendance
- Coursework
- Progress
How do I apply?
- Further information on how to apply will be available before you finish fourth year, from your school, guidance teacher, or new school or college.
- Application packs will be available from Local Authorities.
A Students' Guide to financial support for staying in education
Where can I get further information?
You can ask any of the following about EMA: