The Welsh government has announced significant changes to the Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) program, aimed at supporting 16 to 18-year-olds who continue their education beyond the compulsory school-leaving age. From September 2025, the household income threshold for eligibility will rise, allowing more students to benefit from this fortnightly £80 payment.
These adjustments come as the number of students claiming the EMA has dwindled over recent years. In the academic year 2015-16, 41% of students aged 16 to 18 received the grant. By 2022-23, this figure had plummeted to just 15%. The Welsh government intends to reverse this trend by raising the income thresholds. Families with one dependant will see the threshold increase from £20,817 to £23,400, while households with two or more dependents will see an increase from £23,077 to £25,974.
The EMA is a means-tested grant available to students in sixth forms or further education colleges who are enrolled in academic or vocational courses such as GCSEs, A-Levels, BTEC, and basic skills courses. The grant aims to alleviate financial pressures by providing regular payments, which can be used for essential expenses like food and study materials.
In April 2023, the weekly allowance was increased from £30 to £40. This change has been well-received by students, many of whom rely on the EMA to support their education and daily living expenses. Nia, a student benefiting from the EMA, expressed how crucial the grant is for her educational journey.
"It does motivate me to come to college because without it, it would be a struggle," said Nia.
She further explained its importance:
"It does allow me to come to college with essentials that I need such as writing pens, notebooks… and revision resources."
Nia also highlighted the grant's broader impact:
"It does encourage me to keep coming to college so I can help out with the household and buy stuff that's needed, such as bread."
Roxy, another student, shared her perspective on the EMA's significance in fostering independence.
"I spend it on food for college and studying materials."
She added:
"I think it gives you more independence and a chance to sort yourself out and dictate what you want and what you're going to get for yourself."
The Welsh government estimates that approximately 3,500 additional students will benefit from the increased thresholds. Jonathan Morgan, principal of Coleg y Cymoedd, expressed optimism about these changes.
"We've got a large proportion of learners who come from lower economic backgrounds," noted Morgan.
He believes that the adjustments will encourage more students to attend college.
Vikki Howells emphasized the importance of accessibility and infrastructure in supporting students' educational pursuits.
"To help learners to travel to their schools and colleges, to be able to afford to do that and have the infrastructure and that means that public transport is available as well," she stated.
The EMA plays a critical role in supporting students from lower-income families, allowing them to focus on their studies without the added stress of financial burdens. As more students become eligible for this grant, it is expected that they will be better equipped to pursue their educational goals.
