Senior pupils encouraged to apply for £120 monthly EMA payment

Published 22 July 2026

Senior pupils in West Dunbartonshire are encouraged to apply for Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) for the new academic year.

Young people aged 16-19 who are staying on at school may be eligible for a weekly, term time allowance of £30 per week from August 2026.

The grant, which is paid fortnightly, provides an incentive for young people from lower income families to continue with their education, either in school or college. 
During 2025/26, £224,706 was shared with 237 young people across the authority’s five secondary schools.  

This term-time allowance is paid directly into the young person’s bank account and does not affect child benefit or other benefits being paid to their parents or carers. 
Applications are now being accepted for the 2026/27 academic year and anyone who has claimed EMA in previous years must reapply. 

Councillor Michelle McGinty, Convener of Educational Services, said: “This term-time allowance supports pupils to continue with their education and is a good incentive to remain at school.  I would encourage all young people who are eligible to apply to ensure they do not miss out on the £30 payment every week, during each of the school terms, from August.” 

Councillor John Millar, Vice Convener of Educational Services, said: “The Council continues to work hard to raise awareness about the financial support that is available to eligible households. We know the financial pressures families are feeling with the cost of living increasing.  This money will not affect any other benefits claimed by parents and carers and this financial support could make all the difference to encourage a young staying on at school to further their education.”  

Further information about Education Maintenance Allowance, including full eligibility criteria, is available on the Council’s website at Education maintenance allowance | West Dunbartonshire Council