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Education Maintenance Allowance

Education Maintenance Allowance

If you're 16 to 19 years old you could get £30 a week to help you continue learning, through the Education Maintenance Allowance programme.

The EMA is a Scottish Government fund to support young people from lower income families to continue with their studies. You could be eligible if your family earns up to £24,421 a year or £26,884 if you have siblings, depending on the course you're studying or if you are on a Learning Agreement. The payment is based on attendance and on you fulfilling any learning agreement you may have.

The EMA is paid directly into your personal bank account. It can only be paid when you have achieved 100% attendance.

To find out if you are eligible, please contact us using the details below or find out more at www.emascotland.com.

Apply for an EMA

Online applications are open for the 2023/24 school term. 

• Age 16-19 on or before 30 September 2023 
  • EMA can be paid from week ended 25 August 2023 (If we receive your application by 30 September 2023) 
  • Applications received between 1 October 2023 and 31 March 2024 can be paid from the week we first receive your application
  • No applications can be accepted after 31 March 2024
• Age 16 between 1 October 2023 and 28 February 2024
  • EMA can be paid from week ended 12 January 2024 (if we receive your application by 28 February 2024) 
  • Applications received between 1 March 2024 and 31 March 2024 can be paid from the week we first receive your application.
  • No applications can be accepted after 31 March 2024

If you attend Forth Valley College, you'll need to apply through the college. 

Please Note: You will need to complete the application with your parent/carer present as some of the questions relate to their circumstances, and they need to sign the declaration.

Payment of an EMA is restricted to a maximum of 3 years. However, if you have special educational needs you may be entitled to receive 3 years EMA support over a 4 year period.

If your family receive Income Support you are also eligible for Free School Meals. Please contact us for more details.

If you are having any problems or need help contact the team on 01259 225084.

Data Protection Act

NB: All information, whether held by the school or by Clackmannanshire Council is protected by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).