Contact the student support officer at your college for an application form.
Quick facts
- Income up to £21,000
- Up to £3,458, or £4,079 in London
- £21,001 to £25,704
- Up to £2,305, or £2,685 in London
- £25,705 to £30,993
- Up to £1,152, or £1,355 in London
- £30,994 or more
- No award
- Distance
- Over 15 miles or 2 hours round trip
Who can get it — the full rules
You must:
- be at least 16 and under 19 on 31 August 2026
- meet the residency requirements (your college will check this)
- not be on housing benefit
- have a household income of less than £30,993
- be studying your first level 2 or level 3 qualification (for example 2 or more A levels, a diploma or a national vocational qualification)
Your course must also be more than either 15 miles or a 2 hour round trip from your home, and not available any closer than that.
What you get each year
The actual amount you can get depends on your accommodation costs.
- Up to £21,000: up to £3,458 outside London, up to £4,079 in London
- £21,001 to £25,704: up to £2,305 outside London, up to £2,685 in London
- £25,705 to £30,993: up to £1,152 outside London, up to £1,355 in London
- £30,994 or more: no award
Specialist residential centres
If you study at a specialist residential centre, you may be able to get help from the Residential Bursary Fund instead. Your college will decide how much you get, and you can get payments for a maximum of 3 years.
Other help at 16 to 19
See the 16 to 19 Bursary Fund and Care to Learn.
Common questions
How much is the Residential Support Scheme?
Up to £3,458 a year outside London or £4,079 in London, if household income is up to £21,000.
What is the income limit?
Household income must be less than £30,993.
How far from home must the course be?
More than 15 miles or a 2 hour round trip, and not available any closer.
Can I get it on Housing Benefit?
No. You must not be on housing benefit.