Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) is cash in your hands to help you carry on learning. If you're 16-18 and have left, or are about to leave, compulsory education, then it could be for you. EMA means fewer money worries with a weekly payment of £10, £20 or £30 which is paid directly into your bank account. The amount you recieve is calculated by looking at your household income. To be eligible, your household income must be no higher than £30,810 (for the 2009-10 tax year).
And there is good news if you have a part-time job - any money you earn isn't included in your household income. EMA doesn't affect any other household benefits your parents may recieve.
A smart choice
We're all different and we've all got different ideas for the future. But if you carry on learning and get some qualifications, you'll find it easier to get to where you want to go - and you'll earn more money once you get there. In fact, learning a new skill and getting a new qualification can actually increase your annual salary by up to £3,000.
Learning comes in different shapes and sizes. It's not just in the classroom - there are loads of options, so there's bound to be something that suits you. If you're unsure about what course might suit you, you can check your options at direct.gov.uk/14-19prospectus.
Whatever you decide to do, EMA will help towards the cost of books, travel and equipment so that you can continue learning.
Are you eligible?
Read the list below. If all the descriptions apply to you, you may be eligible for EMA.
- You're 16-18 and are about to leave compulsory education, or have already left compulsory education.
- Your annual household income is below £30,810 (for the tax year 2009-2010).
- You're thinking of starting:
- a full-time further education course at a college or school;
- up until 6 April 2011, a course leading to an Apprenticeship (PLA) that requires not less than 12 guided learning hours a week for a minimum of ten weeks, or
- a Foundation Learning programme.
All courses have to take place in England. If you want to do an Apprenticeship where you earn a salary, you will not be able to get EMA.
Help with your childcare costs
If you're a young parent (under 20) and want to start or continue in learning, you could also be eligible for help with your childcare costs. Check out the 'Care to Learn' website for more information at direct.gov.uk/caretolearn
Still not sure?
If you're not sure if you are eligible for EMA, visit direct.gov.uk/ema.
How to apply
Search: EMA online at direct.gov.uk.
Ask: your school, college, learning provider, careers teacher, local student support services or Connexions personal advisor. Alternatively, you can contact the school, college or provider you want to go to.
Call: Learner Helpline 0800 121 8989