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Your EMA checklist

If you do qualify for Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA), it’s really easy to get your hands on the money - just follow the simple steps below.

If you’re not sure whether you qualify, either follow the link below or phone the EMA helpline on 0800 121 8989.

• EMA: how much, and how often?

Make your application

Apply for EMA by phone

To apply by phone, call 0800 121 8989. EMA helpline staff will talk you through your application.

Apply for EMA on paper

To get an EMA application form, either:

• ask your school, college or learning provider, or
• contact your Connexions personal adviser

Completing parent or carer details

Once you’ve completed the EMA application form, your parent or carer will also need to send evidence of the household income for the relevant tax year. This might be their Tax Credit Award Notice (TC602), or P60.

• EMA: the facts for parents and carers (parents section)

Get a bank account

To get EMA, you’ll need a bank or building society account and the evidence to prove it (for example, an account statement or payment book). 

If you haven’t opened a bank account yet, EMA is a good reason to get one. Follow the link below for advice on how to do this.

• Getting a current account (young people section)

How do you get your money?

If you are eligible for EMA, a Notice of Entitlement (NOE) will be sent to you confirming the weekly amount you will receive.

It is important that you keep your NOE safe, as you will not be able to claim EMA without it.

When you enrol on your course or programme, you must take your NOE with you on the day (or as soon as possible afterwards). 

Your school, college or learning provider will also ask you to sign a learning agreement, setting out what’s expected of you in terms of attendance, behaviour, coursework and progress.