16–19 LEARNERS*
Eligibility criteria apply
- Household income threshold: £40,000
- £4.25 daily meal allowance
- Free breakfasts daily, 8–9am
- Free public transport travel
- Young parents: up to £70/day childcare support
ADULT LEARNERS*
Eligibility criteria apply
- Household income threshold: £30,000
- Free public transport travel
- Up to £70/day childcare support
The level of support depends on your individual circumstances.
For more general information on support, check the links for:
- 16–18 learners
- 19+ learners with EHCP
- 19+ learners
Terms & Conditions
Terms and conditions apply. You must be studying an ESFA (Education, Skills Funding Agency) or WMCA (West Midlands Combined Authority) funded course or be in receipt of an Advanced Learning Loan to access bursary support. Speak to a member of your local Student Services team for further details.
Students Aged 16-18
We don’t want money worries to get in the way of your studies. That’s why we offer a bursary scheme for 16–18 year olds with a household income below £40,000 (you must be studying at least 2 days a week).
Depending on your circumstances, support could include:
- Free or discounted public transport travel
- Help buying equipment, kit or uniform
- Support with course trips, UCAS fees & uni visits
- Help with childcare costs (up to £70 per day)
- Printing credits
- Meal allowance (£4.25 per day) – if you don’t qualify for the Free College Meals scheme
Attendance matters: To keep receiving bursary support, you’ll need to maintain 87%+ attendance.
CHILDCARE SUPPORT
We can help cover childcare costs, up to £70 per day. Find out more about Childcare Provider Support.
FREE COLLEGE MEALS
If you’re eligible, you’ll get a £4.25 daily allowance to use in our college cafés and restaurants. You’ll need to provide evidence when applying.
VULNERABLE BURSARIES
If you meet specific criteria, you could get extra financial help through a Vulnerable Bursary. This may include:
- Wellbeing packs (hygiene and toiletry essentials)
- Academic packs (stationery and study resources)
You may qualify if:
- You’re in, or recently left, local authority care
- You get Income Support or Universal Credit (supporting yourself)
- You get DLA or PIP plus ESA or Universal Credit
If you’re studying full-time (30+ weeks), you may be entitled to the full bursary amount.
Don’t forget: When applying, always provide evidence of your circumstances so we can make sure you get the right support.
16-18 FINANCIAL SUPPORT BOOKLET
Our 2025 Financial Support Booklet will be available soon.
In the meantime, you can download the current guide here: Financial Support Booklet