Education maintenance allowance
Earn while you learn with Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA)
'EMA' is a weekly payment of £10, £20 or £30 a week depending on your household income. The money is intended to help with the day-to-day costs when you stay on at school or college – such as travel, books and equipment for your course.
It is paid directly into your bank account if you stay on in education at school or college after your GCSEs, and is available during term time for any academic or vocational course (up to level 3) which involves at least 12 hours of guided learning per week.
If you're entitled, you'll receive your EMA payment every week of your course as long as you turn up to your classes and show commitment to your course. Most young people will be able to get EMA for two to three years depending on how long they need to finish their studies.
And you could also get a bonus of £100 in January and July - and again in October - if you return for a second year. Bonuses depend on the progress you make with your course. That's £500 potential extra money over the two years.
So, not only could you get more cash in your pocket right now, but you're also going to earn yourself a brighter future with better job prospects when you've finished your studies.
Should I apply for the EMA?
- Are you aged between 16 and 19?
- Are you thinking of staying on at school or college from September 2006?
- Would you like to get up to £30 a week while you are there?
- Do you want to earn up to £500 in bonuses for a two year course?
- Does your parents' or carers' household income £30,810 or less?
If the answer to all these questions is 'yes' then you should apply for Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA)!
How to applyYou can request an application pack online from the Education Maintenance Allowance website, pick up an application form from your school or college, or ring the free EMA helpline on 0808 101 6219.
Will it affect any existing benefits I already receive?If you claim EMA it won't affect:
- Any benefits your parents or carers get.
- Your parent's or carer's Child Benefit.
- Any benefits you get.
- Any money you get from a part-time job.
How long can I claim the EMA?You can claim EMA for up to three years.
Where can I get more information on EMA?For more information visit the government's Education Maintenance Allowance website or contact one of the following:
- Your school or college.
- Your Connexions personal adviser.
- The Salford LEA Student Support Team on 0161-778 0206, student.support@salford.gov.uk.
This page was last updated on 29 February 2008
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