See whether you might be considered for a 16–19 bursary — bursaries are means-tested and awarded at your school or college's discretion.
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Enter your household income. This is guidance only — the actual bursary and the income threshold are decided by your school or college.
=Bursary guidance
Likely considered for a discretionary bursary
Household income (per year)£25,000
Bursary guidanceLikely considered for a discretionary bursary
Guidance only, not a guaranteed offer. A guaranteed bursary (currently £1,200 a year) goes to defined vulnerable groups; everyone else may get a discretionary bursary that is means-tested. The amount and the income threshold are set by your school or college, so always check their policy.
Bursary guidance: Likely considered for a discretionary bursary
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Guidance, not a guaranteed offer. A plain-English check for the 16–19 Bursary Fund — the actual award is decided by your school or college. Everything runs in your browser, no account, no data sent.
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iHow it is calculated
There is no single national bursary amount. A guaranteed bursary goes to specific vulnerable groups (in care, care leavers, or receiving certain benefits). Everyone else may get a discretionary bursary, which is means-tested — colleges commonly look at household income, but each sets its own threshold.
bursary = household income + student status → decided by your college (means-tested)
A 16–19 student with household income under about £25,000 is usually considered for a discretionary bursary — but the amount and the exact income line are set by the college, not by a fixed national rule.
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?Frequently asked questions
How much is a school or college bursary?
There is no fixed national amount for a discretionary bursary — each school or college decides the amount and who gets it. A separate guaranteed bursary (currently £1,200 a year) exists for specific vulnerable groups.
Who gets the guaranteed bursary?
Students who are in care, care leavers, receiving Income Support or Universal Credit in their own name, or disabled and receiving certain benefits. This is a defined group, not income-tested in the same way.
What household income qualifies for a discretionary bursary?
It varies by institution. Many colleges use a household-income line around £25,000, but yours may differ — always check your school or college's own bursary policy.
Is this the same as the pupil premium?
No. The pupil premium is funding paid to schools for disadvantaged pupils, not a payment to you. The 16–19 Bursary Fund helps students with the cost of staying in education.
What can a bursary be used for?
Typically transport, meals, books, equipment and other essential costs of attending your course. Colleges may pay in cash, in kind, or against attendance.
How do I apply?
Apply through your school or college — usually with proof of household income or benefits. This tool only gives a rough idea; it does not decide or promise any award.
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