Get Paid To Go To College!

Your son is probably referring to the Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) - a scheme which financially incentivises students to stay in full time education. If your son turned 16, 17 or 18 in the year up to 31 August 2009, and is enrolled on a course in England which is a full time course at college or school, or a LSC funded diploma or entry to employment course which involves a minimum of twelve hours per week, he can claim the allowance.

The amount you receive depends on your household income (before tax) in the 2008/09 financial year.

Income up to £20,817 per annum receive £30 per week
Income from £20,818 - £25,521 per annum receive £20 per week
Income from £25,522 - £30,810 per annum / £10 per week

The amount is paid direct to your sons bank account and for more information on how to claim the allowance visit www.direct.gov.uk or speak to your accountant.

Date published 5 Dec 2012

This article is intended to inform rather than advise and is based on legislation and practice at the time. Taxpayer’s circumstances do vary and if you feel that the information provided is beneficial it is important that you contact us before implementation. If you take, or do not take action as a result of reading this article, before receiving our written endorsement, we will accept no responsibility for any financial loss incurred.