16 to 19 Bursary Fund — Information for Students and Parents (2026–2027)

The 16 to 19 Bursary Fund helps students aged 16–18 with the costs of staying in education — things like travel, essential books, and equipment or specialist clothing needed for their course. It is not intended to cover general living costs, extra-curricular activities, or pastoral support such as counselling.

There are two types of bursary:

1. Bursary for Vulnerable Groups

Worth up to £1,200 a year, this is for students who are:

• In care, or a care leaver
• Receiving Income Support or Universal Credit in their own right (to support themselves and/or a dependant)
• Receiving Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) or Universal Credit

Funding is based on actual, individually assessed need — it is not an automatic £1,200 payment. Students must provide evidence (e.g. a benefits award letter or local authority confirmation) and show what support they actually need to participate.

2. Discretionary Bursary

For students facing financial hardship who don't fall into the vulnerable groups above. Each school/college sets its own eligibility criteria (often based on household income), but support must still be based on genuine, assessed need — not a flat payment to everyone who applies.

Who can apply?

• Students must be aged 16 or over but under 19 on 31 August 2026.
• Students aged 19+ can only apply for the discretionary bursary if they have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan or are continuing a study programme started before turning 19.
• Students must be on an eligible, publicly funded study programme (not an apprenticeship or paid training).

How to apply

Applications are made directly through the school. You will need to:

• Complete an application form (signed by the student)
• Provide evidence of eligibility (e.g. benefit award letters, local authority confirmation, or household income evidence)
• Explain what support you need (e.g. travel, books, equipment)

There is no guarantee of funding, even for students in a vulnerable group — awards depend on demonstrating actual financial need. Applications and all information provided are treated confidentially.

Good to know

• Receiving a bursary does not affect other means-tested family benefits (e.g. Universal Credit, Child Benefit, Housing Benefit).
• Support is often given "in kind" (e.g. a travel pass or meal vouchers) rather than as cash, to make sure it's used for its intended purpose.
• Bursary payments can be linked to conditions such as attendance, and may be withheld if these aren't met — though your school will always consider individual circumstances.

Want to know more?

Speak to a member of the Sixth Form Team, or see the full official guidance: 16 to 19 Bursary Fund guide 2026 to 2027 — GOV.UK