Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) is a weekly payment of up to £30 per week for students aged 16-18 planning to continue in Further Education.
Who is entitled to EMA?
The EMA is available to you if you are planning on staying on in Further Education and you live in a household with an annual income of less than £30,810.
What is the catch?
The Government won’t give you all this money without asking that you commit yourself to a course of study. Your attendance is monitored each week and the weekly payment will be made to you if you attend all your lessons and do your coursework.
You will get paid to gain a good, solid education which will prove invaluable in later life. The scheme also now guarantees that your allowance will continue until you complete your course, even if your family income changes.
How do I apply?
First you will need to open a bank account, if you don’t already have one, as that is where the money will be paid.
Then you can get a paper application from your current school or Connexions advisor.
Or you can visit www.direct.gov.uk/ema and apply online.
You can also apply by telephone by calling 0800 121 8989. The student helpline will assist you if you have any queries.
How is EMA paid at Strode's College?
When the EMA has been awarded, a Contract is sent to you. When you come to Strode’s to enrol bring this form with you.Then we complete some final checks and as soon as you start going to lessons, Strode’s will begin authorising your weekly payments.
There is also an EMA Office at Strode’s College to assist with all your enquiries.
Is there any help if I am over 19 years of age?
Yes - The Adult Learning Grant (ALG) is available if you are 19 or over and are working towards your first Level 2 or Level 3 qualification.
You can apply for this by telephone on 0800 121 8989.
This award can be up to £30 a week and is assessed on YOUR income, not your household.
For more details please visit www.direct.gov.uk/alg.