STUDENT FINANCE

FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR YOU

At BMet, we want everyone to be able to study, no matter your financial situation. Whether you’re on a full-time or part-time course, we offer a range of support packages to make study easier.

If you’re 16 or older, you can apply to the Discretionary Learner Support Fund for help with course-related expenses.

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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.

Bursary Policy 25/26
Bursary Policy 24/25
Bursary Policy 23/24

HOW-TO GUIDE: APPLYING FOR A BURSARY

Watch our video guide below for a step-by-step walkthrough on how to apply for a bursary.

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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