Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) is a weekly payment of £30, paid directly to young people aged 16 to 19 who continue in full-time education.

Who can get EMA

You can get EMA if you’re aged between 16 and 19 and want to continue your education at school.

You can apply for EMA if:

• you go to a school in the Renfrewshire Council area
• your household earns less than the income thresholds listed below
• your course is at least 21 hours of guided learning per week
• you agree and sign a valid learning agreement with your school.

A learning agreement sets out what’s expected of you around attendance and coursework. You can find out more by contacting: ema.els@renfrewshire.gov.uk or call 0300 300 0300