Archive Website of the UK government

16-19 bursary fund

If you’re aged between 16 and 19 years and think you might struggle with the costs for education or training you may be eligible for a bursary.

Students in the following groups may receive a bursary of £1,200 a year:

• young people in care
• care leavers
• young people claiming income support in their own name
• disabled young people who receive both Employment Support Allowance and Disability Living Allowance in their own name

If you are in one of the above groups and your course is shorter than 30 weeks, or you are studying part-time, you may receive less than £1,200.

Other students facing genuine financial difficulties may be awarded a bursary at the discretion of their school, college or training provider.

Schools, colleges and training providers are responsible for awarding bursaries to students. With the exception of the £1,200 bursaries for students most in need, they decide on the amount. They will also decide when bursaries are paid, and will set conditions that students should meet to receive a bursary, for example, linked to behaviour or attendance.

To find out more see 16-19 bursaries below.

• 16-19 bursaries Opens new window

How to apply for a bursary

Speak to your school, college, Academy or training provider about how to apply for a bursary. They each have their own applications process.

If you're in one of the groups above, they may ask you to provide evidence of your status. If you're not in one of the groups above and are applying for a discretionary bursary, they may ask you to provide evidence of household income.