You could get a bursary to help with education-related costs if you’re aged 16 to 19 and studying at a publicly funded school or college in England - not a university. A publicly funded school is one that does not charge you for attending it.

What is a bursary for?

A bursary is money that you, or your education or training provider, can use to pay for things like:

• clothing, books and other equipment for your course
• transport and lunch on days you study

What you'll get

There are 2 types of 16 to 19 bursary:

• a bursary for students in vulnerable groups
• a discretionary bursary

Bursary for students in vulnerable groups

You could get a bursary worth up to £1,200, depending on your circumstances and benefits.

Discretionary bursary

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.

If you’re over 19, you’ll only be eligible for a discretionary bursary.

Your provider will 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.

Your provider could stop payments, for example: Low attendance or how your bursary is used.

Eligibility

You must:

• be at least 16 and under 19 on 31 August 2024
• study at a publicly funded school or college, or be on an unpaid training course
• meet the residency requirements - your school or college can check this

Bursary for students in vulnerable groups

You may be able to get a bursary if at least one of the following applies:

• you’re in or you recently left local authority care
• you get Income Support or Universal Credit because you’re financially supporting yourself
• you get Disability Living Allowance (DLA) in your name and either Employment and Support
• Allowance (ESA) or Universal Credit
• you get Personal Independence Payment (PIP) in your name and either ESA or Universal Credit

The amount you may get depends on the costs you have and what you need for your course. This might
include money for books, equipment or travel costs to school or college.

Discretionary bursary

Your school or college will have their own criteria for discretionary bursaries. They’ll look at your individual
circumstances - this usually includes your family income.

Ask student services about their criteria and any evidence you’ll need.

You can apply to a discretionary bursary if you’re over 19 and have an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).

How to claim

Apply once you have started the course. Ask the Sixth Form team or the finance department for the application form. 

16-19 Bursary Fund Policy (Key Documents: Pupil Premium and Other Funding)