Education Maintenance Allowance EMA - Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland - How do I claim?

You usually apply for Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) in the country where you are studying.

However, if you live in Scotland or Wales and plan to study in England, you should apply for EMA in the country where you normally live.

Wales

In Wales, you can apply online, download a form to send by post or get a form from your school or college.

• To start an online application, visit the Student Finance Wales website.
• To download an application form, visit the Student Finance Wales website

Scotland

In Scotland, you apply through your local council. However different councils have different forms and different processes. Visit the mygov.scot website to select your council area and to find out how to apply.

Northern Ireland

In Northern Ireland, you can complete a digital form and return it by post, request a form by post or get a form from your school or college.

• To download a digital application form, visit he NI Direct website.
• To request an application form by post, call the EMA helpline on 0300 200 7089. It’s open from 8:00 am to 6:00 am Monday to Friday.

Post your completed application to: EMA Customer Services, PO Box 5591, Glasgow, G52 9BJ.

What documents will I need?

Your parent or carer will need to send evidence of the household income for the relevant tax year , for example, their Tax Credit Award Notice (TC602) or P60.

You have to give details of your bank account when you apply for EMA. To open a bank account, you will need evidence of who you are, for example, a passport or driving licence.

Live in Scotland or Wales but plan to study in England

If you live in Scotland or Wales but plan to study in England, you can get EMA but you should apply in the country where you normally live.

Further information

See also the Gov.UK information on Education Maintenance Allowance