Financial help for 16 to 19-year-olds in England in education or training to cover costs such as travel, books and equipment.
Many people who are entitled to support never claim it. Check who qualifies, how much you could get and how to make your claim through the official channel.
The rules depend on where you live in the UK and on your household’s circumstances.
What 16 to 19 Bursary Fund offers
- Vulnerable groups bursary: Up to £1,200 for those in care, care leavers or on certain benefits.
- Discretionary bursary: Help based on need decided by your provider.
- Practical costs: Helps with travel, books, equipment and meals.
- Older students: Students 19 or over may qualify if continuing a course.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who can get it | Young people aged 16 to under 19 on 31 August 2026 at a publicly funded school or college in England |
| How much | Up to £1,200 a year for students in vulnerable groups; discretionary bursaries vary |
| How it's paid | By your school or college |
| How to claim | Apply to your school, college or training provider |
| Where | England only |
Key points
Vulnerable groups bursary: Up to £1,200 for those in care, care leavers or on certain benefits.
Discretionary bursary: Help based on need decided by your provider.
Practical costs: Helps with travel, books, equipment and meals.
About Department for Education
16 to 19 Bursary Fund is run by Department for Education. Claims are made free of charge through the official government channel.
We explain the rules independently and then send you to the official page to claim. We are not a government website.
Amounts and rules can change. The decision on your claim is made by Department for Education.