Student Finance - Further Education Grants

Students aged 19 or over on 1 July 2024 studying a full time further education course e.g. 90 credit, subsidiary or extended diploma, University Access, Applied A level or NVQ course can apply for a means tested grant from Further Education Grants. You won't repay this grant unless you withdraw from your course. To determine eligibility for this award your previous study, residency and course choice will all be checked. Students undertaking a GCE A level course which does not contain an Applied element (e.g. Sociology or English Literature) cannot receive a Further Education Grants.

Further Education Award

When to Apply

Students should apply for a Further Education Grant at the same time as they apply for their course. The closing date for applications is 31 October 2024. Apply online at www.eani.org.uk/feapplication.

Contact Information

028 9598 6000, and select option 2
Website: www.eani.org.uk/feapplication
Email: fegrants@eani.org.uk

Maintenance Grant

A maintenance grant is available to provide support towards living costs. It is assessed on household income. The table below will give you an idea of the amount of grant you may receive.

Household Income Living at Parent's Home Living away from Parent's Home
Up to £21,330 £1,674 £2,092
£21,331 - £26,160 £1,490 £1,863
£26,161 - £31,580 £1,306 £1,633
£31,581 - £38,805 £1,122 £1,402
£38,806 and over No Funding No Funding

The Education Authority will pay the maintenance grant in three instalments, one at the start of each term. Release of funding is subject to satisfactory attendance.

Childcare Grant

Students aged 20 or over on 1st September 2024 can claim a childcare grant if using registered or approved childcare. Students aged under 20 years of age on 1st September 2024 should apply to the Care to Learn Scheme instead.

The Childcare grant is dependent upon household income. The table below will give you an idea of the support available.

Household Income 1 child 2 or more children
Up to £21,330 £130 £220
£21,331 - £26,160 £110 £118
£26,161 - £31,580 £78 £133
£31,581 - £38,805 £40 £70
£38,806 and over No Funding No Funding

You will be asked in the online FE Grant application if you wish to apply for the Childcare Grant. If you select yes, the Education Authority will contact you and ask you to complete a separate Childcare Application CG1 or you can contact the FE Team at fegrants@eani.org.uk or 028 9598 6000 and select option 2 to request an application.

Childcare costs are paid directly to your Childcare Provider by the Education Authority. If your childcare costs are more than the grant covers you are responsible for the balance.