Department of Health and Social Care - Parents Learning Allowance

Parents Learning Allowance (PLA)

You will receive up to £1,300 per academic year (about 1,500 EUR) if you are studying medicine or dentistry in England and have a dependent child. This amount is a top-up to your NHS scholarship and does not need to be repaid. It is paid out alongside the scholarship in three instalments throughout the year. The exact amount depends on the income you declare and may therefore be less than the maximum amount. The scheme is administered by the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA) on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care and applies exclusively in England.

Who can apply

• Field of study: You are studying medicine or dentistry at an English university in an academic year that is eligible for the NHS scholarship.
• NHS Bursary: You’re already receiving the full NHS scholarship, not just help with your tuition fees.
• Children: You are supporting at least one child under the age of 19 who is financially dependent on you.
• Income: The benefit is means-tested, so the amount is calculated on the basis of the income stated in your application.
• Residence: You normally live in England and have the right to reside in the United Kingdom (e.g. on the basis of ‘Settled Status’, refugee status or humanitarian protection).
• Partner: If your partner also receives an NHS grant, you can each claim 50% of the PLA, or one of you can opt out so that the other receives the full amount.

How to apply

You apply for the grant online via your NHS scholarship account with NHSBSA Student Services. There is no separate form. The PLA is assessed automatically when you submit your application for an NHS scholarship and declare a dependent child. You must reapply each year within nine months of the start of the academic year.

How realistic are your chances?

This is not a competitive award. It is an entitlement, so if you meet the conditions you receive it. The hard part is qualifying at all: you must already hold the full NHS Bursary as a medical or dental student and have a dependent child. If that describes you, claiming is straightforward, and the amount simply depends on your declared income.