It does not reduce any other benefits in the house, so there is no downside to applying. The rules below are for the 2026/27 school year.
Quick facts
- Weekly
- £30, paid fortnightly
- Bonuses
- Two of £100, in January and June
- Income limit
- £20,500 (one child) · £22,500 (more than one)
- Courses
- Up to Level 3: GCSEs, A levels, BTEC and more
- Hours
- Full time at school, or 15 guided hours at college
- Affects other benefits?
- No
Who can get EMA
Students aged 16 to 19, where all of these apply:
- Household income of £20,500 or less with one dependent child, or £22,500 or less with more than one
- Full time at school, or at least 15 guided hours a week at college
- Studying an eligible course and attending all classes
- Meeting the nationality and residency rules
"You may be entitled to receive EMA for a maximum of three years, as long as the household income does not rise above the income threshold which applies to your household."
Which courses count
"You have to be enrolled on courses of further education up to and including Level 3, but not including higher education." That includes GCSEs, A levels, NVQs up to level 3, BTEC Nationals and the Baccalaureate.
"Any course that attracts a training allowance will not be covered by the Money to Learn EMA."
The money
"EMA is a weekly award of £30 which is paid fortnightly to students who meet the eligibility criteria below."
On top, two £100 bonuses if you meet the goals your school or college sets in your learning agreement. "The first bonus payment is made to students in January and the second bonus payment is made in June."
"Receipt of EMA will not affect any other benefits being received in the household."
How to apply
Application forms and guidance notes for 2026 to 2027 are on nidirect. Queries go to the EMA helpline run by the Student Loans Company, 0300 200 7089.
Common questions
Does EMA still exist in Northern Ireland?
Yes. It pays £30 a week, fortnightly, to eligible students aged 16 to 19.
What is the EMA income limit in Northern Ireland?
£20,500 or less for households with one dependent child, and £22,500 or less for households with more than one.
Are there EMA bonuses?
Yes. Two bonus payments of £100 may be paid, in January and June, if you meet the goals in your learning agreement.
Does EMA affect other benefits?
No. Receipt of EMA will not affect any other benefits in the household.
How long can I get EMA?
Up to three years, as long as household income stays under the threshold.
Can I get EMA at college part-time?
You need at least 15 guided hours a week at college, or to be full time at school.