UK Government - Parents’ Learning Allowance

Parents' Learning Allowance

During your studies, you will receive a grant of between £50 and £2,024 per year (about 60 to 2,350 EUR). The exact amount depends on your household income. The money will be paid directly into your bank account in up to three instalments per year, and you will never have to pay it back. It is added to any other student finance you receive and will not result in a reduction in your benefits or tax credits. The grant is provided by the UK Government and helps student parents to cover the costs of their studies.

Who can apply

• Where you study: You’re studying in England.
• Children: You have children who depend on you. You do not need to pay for childcare to be eligible.
• Income: Your household earns less than £18,957.99 per year (approximately 22,000 EUR).
• Course: In the year of your application, you are undertaking a full-time Bachelor’s degree or a course of study worth at least 120 credit points.
• Field of study: Any subject.
• Postgraduate Loan: You can apply provided you are not already receiving a postgraduate loan.

How to apply

You apply for the Parents' Learning Allowance at the same time as your general student finance application, through the UK government's online student finance service. Once it is processed, your student finance account shows the amount you will get, and you receive an email to confirm it.

How realistic are your chances?

This is not a competitive scholarship, but a means-tested state grant, which is therefore based on your income. If you are studying in England, have children, fall below the income threshold and are enrolled on an eligible course, you are entitled to it. There is neither a selection panel nor a fixed number of places – the key factor is therefore that you meet the eligibility criteria. Before applying, check whether your household income is below the income threshold, as this is the decisive factor in determining whether your application is approved.