Sources of Financial Help

The College can help both full and part time further education students with the cost of their course, such as tuition and exam fees, travel and accommodation or child care costs and equipment. All applications are considered on an individual basis by an independent panel and are subject to you meeting certain conditions.

If you are under 19 when you start your full time course at college, you could get up to £30 a week to help you carry on learning. EMA spells fewer money worries − leaving you to get on with your studies. EMA is paid weekly into your bank account - but only if you attend your classes and really put in the effort. On top of this, you could also get up to £500 in bonuses as you progress with your studies and you can spend the money on anything you want to help with student life. EMA is a government scheme and your parents need to meet certain criteria. If you’re on an Entry to Employment course, you will receive the maximum £30 a week. Application forms are available at the College or at http://ema.direct.gov.uk

Missed out on EMA because you are over 19? Then an Adult Learning Grant could be the answer. Money is paid directly into your bank account but you must be studying for your first Level 2 or Level 3 course. You’ll receive up to £10, £20 or £30 per week, depending on your circumstances. There is no upper age limit on taking a Level 2 qualification but the age limit for a Level 3 is 31.

These government sponsored loans can be used to help with living and other expenses while you study at college. They are repayable after you complete your course. Visit www.direct.gov.uk for more information on Career Development Loans and www.slc.co.uk for further details on student loans for higher education.

Your Local Authority may be able to help with tuition fees and other costs for both further and higher education and some charities provide support grants. Visit www.dorsetforyou.com to find your Local Authority or contact Student Support for a list of potential charities.

Are you employed in agriculture or a rural business providing professional services to agriculture? Then you may qualify for a 75 per cent reduction in tuition fees for certain courses that develop your expertise and update your knowledge. Programmes are held at venues across Dorset and can cover finance, technical and husbandry issues, diversification and planning. Please contact us for further details.