EMA Help for Students to be Expanded - Applications Open Later This Month

More students in Pembrokeshire could access a £40 weekly allowance – part of the Welsh Labour Government’s drive to support more young people to stay on in education.

From September, 1,500 more 16-18 year-olds across Wales will be able to claim £40 a week through the Education Maintenance Allowance.

Eluned Morgan, welcomed the news that eligibility is being extended this year – meaning even more students in Pembrokeshire could benefit.

“Wales already has the most generous EMA offer in the UK – under a Tory Government it was scrapped in England, and Scotland and Northern Ireland offer students less money than in Wales,” she said.

“EMA helps young people with costs like books, transport and meals – all things which can impact families cost of living.

“Every young person deserves the opportunity to reach their potential so I am proud that, because of Welsh Labour choices, more students will be supported to do so.”

Over 18,000 students currently claim EMA in Wales – a grant designed to support students between the ages of 16-18 whose household income is below a certain amount.

The latest decision from the Welsh Labour Government to extend EMA eligibility will mean more young people can receive weekly support from September.

Eluned Morgan said: “The Welsh EMA is breaking down barriers for learners in Pembrokeshire. Everybody deserves an equal opportunity to access education and providing £40 a week to those eligible is one of the ways in which the Welsh Labour Government is making this a reality.”

“Hundreds of learners in Pembrokeshire claim their EMA every year. At £40 at week, Welsh Labour delivers the most generous offer in the UK.

“I know this money makes a real difference for students and their families with the cost of living.

“And, of course, the Welsh Labour Government’s £1 bus fare scheme for young people is helping to make the EMA go even further for families across Pembrokeshire.

“I would urge all 16-18 year-olds and their families in the county to take a few minutes to check if they qualify for support.”

EMA can be used to help with education costs such as transport, meals or study supplies.

Applications for the new EMA offer will be open on April 27, 2026.To check whether you are eligible and to apply for EMA visit the Student Finance Wales website, or speak to your school or college.