Money Matters

Further education is free for 16-19 year old students. However, there are certain courses that may require additional equipment, kit or uniform. Details of these extra costs will be discussed at your interview.

If you are over the age of 19 you will need to pay tuition fees.

Financial Help

EMA (Educational Maintenance Allowance)

Want to come to College but are worried about money? You may be able to get up to £30 per week EMA if you are aged between 16-19 and attending College full time, plus bonuses if you make good progress on your course. To find out more or to request an application pack call the Learner Support Helpline on 0800 121 8989.

Learner Support Fund

The College has some extra money to help if you are in receipt of certain benefits or on a low income and may find it difficult to pay for childcare, uniform, equipment etc.

Level 2 Entitlement

If you are aged 19+ and do not currently have a full level 2 award (such as 5 GCSE passes at grade A-C, a BTEC Diploma or an NVQ 2) you will have your tuition fee waived if you enrol on a full level 2 award. You will still have to pay for materials and registration costs where applicable.

Level 3 Entitlement

If you are aged between 19-25 and do not currently have a full level 3 qualification (such as 2 A Levels, a BTEC National or an NVQ 3) you will have your tuition fee waived if you enrol on a full time level 3 qualification. You will still have to pay for materials and registration costs where applicable.

Adult Learning Grant (19+)

If you are studying full time for your first full level 2 or 3 qualification and are in receipt of low pay benefits, such as working tax credit, housing benefit or council tax benefit, you could be entitled to an allowance of up to £30 per week to help you with the cost of studying.

Adult Learning Grant (FE Welsh Assembly)

If you are over 19, living in Wales and studying over 275 guided learning hours on your course, you may be eligible for a grant to help with the cost of your course. The grant is means tested and paid each term directly into your bank account following confirmation from the College that you have started the course and are continuing your studies each term. For further information contact the helpline on 0845 602 8845 or download an application pack from www.studentfinancewales.co.uk

Train to Gain

Train to Gain is the national skills service that supports employers of all sizes and in all sectors to improve the skills of their employees as a route to improving business performance. The scheme offers Level 2 training at no cost for employees who have not yet reached that level, contributions to Level 3, funding for apprenticeships and grant support to develop leadership and management skills. To find out more and to check eligibility, please call the Business Training Centre on 01594 545370.