There is a range of extra help if you have dependants, and this is set out below. The support detailed on this page is available to both new and continuing students.
Childcare Grant
Full-time students with dependent children in registered and approved childcare can apply for this help before or during your course, and can receive a Childcare Grant during term times and holidays.
Social Security Agency and Housing Benefit departments will not count the Childcare Grant when they work out your benefit entitlement. You will not be entitled to this grant if you or your spouse / partner receive the childcare element of the Working Tax Credit from HMRC (formerly the Inland Revenue).
How much help you get will depend on your circumstances, for example your income and that of your dependants. If you have one child you can receive up to £148.75 a week (85% of actual costs of up to £175 a week). For two or more children you can receive up to £255 a week (85% of actual costs of up to £300 a week).
This is usually paid in three instalments, one at the start of each term, with your other support, and you do not have to repay it.
Parents’ Learning Allowance
This is available to full-time students with dependent children to help with course-related costs.
Social Security Agency and Housing Benefit offices will not count this grant when they work out your benefit entitlement.
How much you get depends on your income and that of your dependants (including your spouse / partner). You can receive between £50 and £1435.
This is usually paid in three instalments, one at the start of each term, with your other support and you do not have to repay it.
Adult Dependants’ Grant
If you have a spouse / partner (of either sex if you began your course in or after 2005) or another adult, usually a member of your family, who depends on you financially, you may be eligible.
You can receive up to £2510 a year, and the amount you get will depend on your income and that of your adult dependants.
This is usually paid in three instalments, one at the start of each term, with your other support, and you do not have to repay it.
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