Main messages about EMA

These are the main features you can highlight to promote the EMA scheme:

• EMA helps students make informed choices at 16, 17 and 18, giving them the opportunity to think about further education with fewer financial worries
  
  
• EMA is a means-tested, attendance-based weekly allowance, paid every 2 weeks, depending on household income
  
  
• from 17 April 2023, the weekly amount paid to eligible students is £40 (previously £30)
  
  
• EMA is available to students on a range of academic and vocational courses up to level 3, for example GCSEs, A levels, NVQs, pre-entry level, entry level and basic skills courses (this list is not exhaustive)
  
  
• any money students earn from part-time jobs does not affect EMA
  
  
• EMA does not affect any benefits paid to families, such as Child Benefit, tax credits, Universal Credit or Employment Support Allowance
  
  
• EMA is not only intended for those whose families are receiving benefits. For example, Child Benefit, tax credits, Universal Credit or Employment Support Allowance. Students may be entitled to EMA whether they are receiving these benefits or not.
  
  
• to apply for EMA, students must have, or have applied to open, a bank, building society or credit union account that accepts direct credits
  
  
• students must apply within 13 weeks of starting their course to be eligible to receive backdated payments