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Bursary information for students aged 19+

What is the bursary?

The 19+ Bursary Fund is financial support provided by the government to help students with the costs of education and training.

The bursary can help with expenses that might otherwise make it difficult to attend college, such as:

  • Travel costs
  • Equipment and materials
  • Meals
  • Exam fees

When can I apply?

Applications open:

1 August 2026

For students starting their course in:

September 2026

Apply For A Bursary Here

Who can apply?

You may be eligible if you:

  • 19 years old or older on 31st August 2026 (born before 31 August 2006)
  • Are enrolled on a further education course at Weston College
  • Have a residual household income of £45,688 or less or £24,800 (national living wage salary) if living independently
  • Settled in the UK or have pre-settled status

Who cannot apply?

You are not eligible for the bursary if you are:

  • You're a paid (waged) apprentice or in paid training
  • A prison-based learner or studying while on temporary licence
  • Enrolled in higher education

How is eligibility assessed? (Residual Income)

1

Living Alone

  • Assessed on individual income
  • Provide 3 months' evidence (from April 2025 onward)
  • Residual income = gross income minus £1,130 per child under 19 in your household
2

Living with Partner
(Husband/Wife)

  • Combined income assessed
  • Same deduction: £1,130 per child under 19
3

Living with Parents/Relatives with No Personal Income

  • Assessed based on parents' or relatives' income
  • Deduction: £1,130 per child under 19

What support can you receive?

Travel Support

Bursary learners will need to decide whether they wish to have one of our First Bus bus passes, or for the College to reimburse the cost of train travel on timetabled days.

Childcare Support

For parents aged 20+ at course start, for children aged 14 or under (as of 31 August 2026). Covers class time plus up to 1 hour before/after for travel. Payment made directly to Ofsted registered providers. Funding is not guaranteed, please await confirmation before making arrangements.

Course Essentials

Professional kits, uniforms, books, equipment, field trip costs and UCAS application fees (if applicable).

Exam Fees

Support with exam fees as needed for qualification.

IT Bursary

Available for courses lasting 24 weeks or more.

Professional Memberships

Support with professional membership fees as needed for qualification.

Your responsibilities

  • You must attend and be meeting the targets set out on your course.
  • You must inform us of any changes in circumstances, such as a change to course, childcare provider etc.
  • If you withdraw from your course, you will be required to repay all or part of your award and return any books or equipment.

Tips for applicants

  • Check both age and income eligibility as early as possible.
  • Gather 3 months of gross income evidence (April 2025 onward).
  • If living with others, detail your household scenario for accurate assessment.
  • Apply promptly when the window opens on 1 August 2026.
  • Await confirmation before arranging services like childcare.

Need help?

If you're unsure whether you're eligible or need help completing your application, our Student Finance Team is here to help.

They can provide advice on:

  • Eligibility criteria
  • Supporting evidence required
  • The application process
  • Available bursary support

Email studentfinance@weston.ac.uk or speak to a member of staff at any Weston College campus reception.

We encourage all eligible students to apply, even if they're unsure whether they'll qualify. Our team will be happy to assess their application and provide guidance.

Apply or find out more

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