Student Finance England - Adult Dependants’ Grant

Adult Dependants' Grant

You will receive up to 4,085 EUR per year (£3,545) if you are studying full-time and another adult is financially dependent on you. This grant comes from ‘Student Finance England’, a UK government body, so you will never have to repay it. It is paid in addition to your student loans and is paid into your bank account in up to three instalments throughout the year. The exact amount depends on your own income, the income of the person who is financially dependent on you, and your family circumstances, such as whether you are married or have children.

Who can apply

• Where you study: You are a full-time student at a university in England.
• Someone depends on you: An adult is financially dependent on you. This person must not be your own child, a relative who earns more than £3,796 per year, or someone who is already receiving student finance.
• Partners under 25: If you fall under 25, your partner will only be taken into account if you are married or in a civil partnership.
• Household money: Your income, together with that of all persons living with you, must not exceed £15,835.98 per year.
• Nationality: The degree programme is open to students from the UK and abroad, provided they are eligible for student finance in England.
• Field of study: Open to all subjects.
• No postgraduate loan: You cannot claim this entitlement if you receive a loan for postgraduate study.
• From 1 August 2026: The adult who relies on your support must also live in the United Kingdom. If they only live there for part of the year, you will receive a lower amount.

How to apply

You can apply for the grant via your online student finance account or, if you prefer, by post. You will need to provide details of your household income and prove your identity. You must submit a new application for each academic year.

How realistic are your chances?

This is not a competitive process against other applicants: if you meet the eligibility criteria, you will receive the grant. The real hurdles are the low household income threshold and the strict definition of who is considered a dependant. Check both carefully, as your eligibility depends on them, and submit an application for each year in which you continue to support this adult.