UK Government - Parents' Learning Allowance

Parents' Learning Allowance

You will receive a grant of up to about 2,340 EUR (2,024 GBP) per year if you are studying in England and have dependent children. The exact amount will be between approximately 58 EUR (50 GBP) and this maximum amount, depending on your family’s income. The grant is provided by the UK government through ‘Student Finance England’ and paid directly into your bank account in up to three instalments per year. You will never have to repay it. It is paid on top of your other student finance and does not affect your benefits or tax credits.

Who can apply

• Where you study: You are studying in England. Separate rules apply to students from Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
• Children: You have one or more children who are financially dependent on you.
• Family income: Your household’s total annual income is less than 18,957.99 GBP (approximately 21,900 EUR).
• Course: In the year of your application, you are enrolled on a full-time Bachelor’s degree programme or are taking courses totalling at least 120 credits.
• Field of study: Any topic is allowed.
• Childcare: You do not need to pay for childcare to be eligible.

How to apply

You apply for this grant as part of your standard application for student finance to ‘Student Finance England’; there is therefore no separate form. When applying online, tick the relevant box for the grant. You must resubmit the application each academic year in which you wish to receive the grant.

How realistic are your chances?

This is not an award that is given on a competitive basis. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you will receive the funding – so there is no selection panel you need to convince. The main requirements are that you are studying in England, have dependent children and do not exceed the income limit. Apply for the grant each year via your ‘Student Finance’ account, and you can be sure that you will receive it once your details have been verified.