Education Maintenance Allowance

Overview

You can get financial help through Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) if you're aged 16 to 19 and want to continue learning.

It's a weekly payment of £30, payable directly to you.

EMA is a separate allowance. It's paid in addition to other support and benefits provided by the government, including Child Benefit. It will not affect any money you earn from a part-time job.

You need to complete a new application each academic year. No applications for the current academic year can be made after 31 March 2026.