16 to 19 Bursary Fund
If you're aged 16 to 19 and staying in education or training, you might be able to get financial support through the 16–19 Bursary Fund. It’s designed to help with costs like travel, meals, books, equipment, and other essentials that make it easier to stay in education.
There are two types of bursary, a bursary for students in vulnerable groups and a discretionary bursary.
The sixth form, college or other educational institution you are attending is responsible for managing both types of bursary.
You may be able to receive a discretionary bursary if you are over 19 if you're either continuing on a study programme that you began aged 16 to 18 or you have an Education, Health, and Care Plan (EHCP).
You could get up to £1,200 if at least one of the following applies:
- you’re in care or a care leaver
- you're receiving Income Support or Universal Credit
- you're receiving Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP) along with Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or Universal Credit
The sixth form, college or provider you're attending must verify that you meet the criteria in full. They should then award you the amount of support you actually need based on your costs, not a fixed or flat rate amount.
You could get a discretionary bursary if you need financial help but do not qualify for a bursary for students in vulnerable groups. Your education or training provider decides how much you get and what it’s used for. Your provider will also decide how you get your bursary. You might get:
- an instalment paid by cash, cheque or bank transfer.
- things like a travel pass, free meals or books.
Some providers also offer one-off payments to cover study trips or travel for university interviews.
To find out more about the 16-19 Bursary Fund
- Speak to the college, sixth form or training provider once you know where you’ll study or train, so that you’ll get your bursary as soon as possible.
- Go to The bursary fund guidance pages on GOV.UK for further information.
Please note: if you're on an apprenticeship programme, or any training where you receive a wage, you're classed as being employed rather than in education and therefore aren't eligible for the 16 to 19 Bursary Fund.
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