Student Finance - Further Education Grants
Students aged 19 or over on 1 July 2023 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.
When to Apply
Students should apply for a Further Education Award at the same time as they apply for their course. The closing date for applications is 27 October 2023. However, funding is limited and only those students who have submitted an application by 30th June 2023 will be guaranteed funding for the 2023/2024 academic year.
Contact Information
Telephone: 028 8225 4546
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 2023 can claim a childcare grant if using registered or approved childcare. Students aged under 20 years of age on 1st September 2023 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 on the FE Grant application pack if you wish to apply for the Childcare Grant. If you tick yes, the Education Authority will send you a separate Childcare Application CG1 Form to be completed and returned. 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.
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