UK Government - Parents' Learning Allowance

Parents' Learning Allowance

You will receive up to approximately EUR 2,360 per year (up to £2,024 for 2025/26) if you are studying full-time and have dependent children. This is a grant from the UK Government, administered by Student Finance England, so you will never have to pay it back. It is added to the student loans you are already receiving. It will not result in a reduction in your benefits or tax credits. The amount depends on your household income: the lower your income, the more you will receive. You must reapply each academic year as long as you are continuing your studies and meet the eligibility criteria.

Who can apply

• Where you study: You are studying in England. If you live in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, you should submit your application to your respective national funding body instead.
• Course: In the year of your application, you are undertaking a full-time Bachelor’s degree or a course worth at least 120 credit points.
• Children: You have at least one child who is dependent on you. You do not need to pay for childcare to be eligible.
• Income: Your family must earn less than £18,957.99 a year to receive the full amount. If your income is higher, the payment will be reduced.
• Field of study: Open to all subjects.
• One catch: You cannot claim this entitlement if you are also taking out a loan for postgraduate study.

How to apply

You apply for the allowance via Student Finance England as part of your standard application for student finance. Complete the section on the ‘Parents’ Learning Allowance’ and agree to disclose details of your income. Processing usually takes around four weeks, and you may be asked to provide further evidence.

How realistic are your chances?

This is not a competitive scholarship with a limited number of places. It is a state grant: if you meet the eligibility criteria, you will receive it. The key criteria are having dependent children, studying full-time in England and meeting the income threshold for the full amount. If this applies to you, apply for the grant as part of your student finance arrangements, and you can count on receiving the support.