In a significant move aimed at supporting post-16 learners in Wales, the Welsh Government has announced an uplift in the household income thresholds for the Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA).
This decision will enable thousands more students in colleges and sixth forms to access crucial financial support, fostering a more inclusive and accessible further education system.
Starting from the new academic year in September, the income thresholds for EMA will see a substantial increase. Currently, over 16,000 students receive the EMA grant, but this number is set to rise by an estimated 3,500 learners.
The household income threshold for families with one dependent child will be raised from £20,817 to £23,400. For families with two or more dependents, the threshold will increase from £23,077 to £25,974. This means that more families with lower household incomes will now be eligible to receive the EMA.
Vikki Howells, Minister for Further and Higher Education in Wales, commented:
“Wales already delivers the most generous Education Maintenance Allowance in the UK, helping post-16 learners to continue studying academic or vocational courses, and this change means we will now be supporting thousands more learners.
“We are very proud of our record in maintaining and increasing the Education Maintenance Allowance. We are clear that our Draft Budget is a budget for a brighter future and the uplift to EMA eligibility is one of the ways we are delivering this. The announcement means thousands more learners will now benefit from further financial support to continue or start their further education journey.”
The Education Maintenance Allowance is a weekly grant of £40 designed to support 16 to 18-year-olds from eligible households with further education costs, such as transport or meals. EMA was ended in England in 2011 and is retained at a lower rate of £30 in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
The uplift in income thresholds will significantly benefit students from lower-income families, providing them with the financial support needed to continue their education without the added stress of economic burdens. This move aligns with the Welsh Government's commitment to ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to succeed in their educational journey.
With the new income thresholds set to take effect from September, thousands more post-16 learners in Wales will benefit from the Education Maintenance Allowance.
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