Education Maintenance Allowance

Applying for EMA

You can only apply for Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) online.

You will need a MyGovScot 'MyAccount' to apply. If you don’t already have a MyAccount, you’ll need to sign up for one.

When applying for EMA, you'll be asked to provide:

  • your parent or carer's income
  • your bank account details
  • your birth certificate or passport

If you live with a foster parent, all we need is proof that you are looked after by a foster parent. You can get this from the Social Work department.

I'm a college student - how do I apply?

If you are a college student, you'll need to apply directly to your college. You should contact the college's admin department for more information.

EMA applications for the current academic year are now closed. Applications will re-open for the 2026/27 academic year in July 2026.