choices

Money matters

16 to 19 Bursary

EMA (Education Maintenance Allowance) closed to new applicants in England from January 2011.

From September 2011 EMA will be replaced with a new bursary scheme.

If you are 16-19 and are:

• in care
• a care leaver
• receive income support
• receive Employment Support Allowance as well as Disability Living Allowance

you will be eligible for a bursary of £1,200.

Other students who are facing financial difficulties will be able to apply to their school, college or training provider for a bursary. The school,college or provider will decide on the amount paid, when it will be paid and the conditions that will need to be met to be eligible to receive a bursary.

Some students who currently receive EMA will be entitled to receive payments in 2011/2012. See the Directgov 16-19 Bursary website for more information.

If you have a questions about the closure of  EMA call the learner Support Helpline on 0800 121 8989.