Education Maintenance Allowance EMA - Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland - How do I claim?

You usually apply for Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) in the country where you are studying.

However, if you live in Scotland or Wales and plan to study in England, you should apply for EMA in the country where you normally live.

Wales

In Wales, you can get an application form online or by asking your school or college for a form.

• Online: Education and Maintenance Allowance pages on the Student Finance Wales website

Post your completed application to: Wales Customer Services, PO Box 5596, Glasgow, G52 9BR.

Scotland

In Scotland, you apply through your local council. Different councils have different forms and different processes. Check the EMA page of the My Gov Scot website. 

Northern Ireland

In Northern Ireland, you can get an application form online or by calling or emailing the EMA helpline.

• Online: EMA forms page of the NI direct website
• Telephone: 0300 200 7089
• Email: ema_ni@slc.co.uk 

What documents will I need?

Your parent or carer will need to send evidence of the household income for the relevant tax year , for example, their Tax Credit Award Notice (TC602) or P60.

You have to give details of your bank account when you apply for EMA. To open a bank account, you will need evidence of who you are, for example, a passport or driving licence.

Live in Scotland or Wales but plan to study in England

If you live in Scotland or Wales but plan to study in England, you can get EMA but you should apply in the country where you normally live.

Further information

See also the Gov.UK information on Education Maintenance Allowance

Reviewed: August 2022