Understanding the 1619 Bursary Fund

The 1619 Bursary Fund (1619 BF) is a national initiative designed to help 16 to 19yearold learners in England overcome financial barriers to education and training. Funded by the Department for Education, it provides flexible, needbased support that can be used for a wide range of expenses, from travel and equipment to childcare and essential living costs.

Why the Bursary Fund Exists

Young people from lowincome families often face hidden costs that can prevent them from staying in education or accessing further training. While tuition fees for many post16 courses are covered, extra costs remain, including:

• Transport to and from college or training venue
• Specialist equipment or materials required for particular courses
• Childcare for learners with young children
• Uniforms, workbased learning expenses, and exam fees
• Living expenses during work placements or internships

The 1619 BF aims to bridge this gap, ensuring that financial hardship does not force students to abandon their studies.

Who Can Apply?

Eligibility is based on household income, not on academic performance. The key criteria are:

• Age between 16 and 19 (or 20 for certain apprenticeship routes).
• Resident in England.
• Enrolled in a nonhighereducation provision that receives public funding (e.g., college, sixthform, apprenticeship, or workbased learning).
• Household income below the eligibility threshold (normally 25,000 per annum, but exact figures can vary each financial year).

Students from the benefit claimants category (households receiving Universal Credit, Child Tax Credit, or Working Tax Credit) are automatically considered eligible, but all applications must be verified by the learning provider.

How the Fund Works

Funding is allocated directly to the educational institution, which then disburses the money to the learner. The process typically follows these steps:

1. Application: The student completes a bursary application form, usually available online through the colleges website or via a paper form.
2. Eligibility Check: The provider verifies income information, often using selfassessment statements or evidence such as benefit award letters.
3. Assessment of Need: The learner outlines the specific costs they need covered. Providers may request quotes or receipts for larger amounts.
4. Approval & Funding Allocation: Once approved, the provider assigns an amount from the allocated bursary pool to the student.
5. Disbursement: Money may be paid directly to the student (e.g., bank transfer) or to a thirdparty supplier (e.g., a transport company).

Types of Support Available

The fund is intentionally flexible. Some common categories include:

• Travel and Transport: Bus, train or taxi fares, mileage reimbursement for car use.
• Equipment and Materials: Textbooks, safety equipment, specialised tools, musical instruments, or software licences.
• Childcare: Vouchers or direct payments for childcare while attending classes.
• Living Costs: Small livingcost grants to help with food or accommodation during intensive placement periods.
• Uniforms and Protective Clothing: For vocational courses that require specific dress.

How Much Can You Receive?

There is no fixed maximum amount per learner; the total amount a college can spend is determined by the funding allocation it receives from the government. However, typical awards range from 20 up to 300 per term, depending on need and the availability of funds. In some cases, especially for highcost equipment or prolonged placements, larger sums can be approved.

Applying StepbyStep Guide

1. Gather Your Documents

Prepare the following before you start:

• Proof of household income (benefit award letters, payslips, or selfassessment statements).
• Evidence of the expense you are requesting (e.g., travel card receipts, equipment quotes, childcare invoices).

2. Locate Your Colleges Bursary Form

Most colleges host a dedicated page for the 1619 Bursary Fund. Look for Student Finance, Bursary, or Student Support sections. If you cant find it, call the student services desk.

3. Complete the Application

Fill in personal details, describe your financial situation, and list the costs you need help with. Be clear and specific; vague requests are more likely to be rejected.

4. Submit and Follow Up

Submit the form (online or in person) and keep a copy of the receipt. Most colleges respond within two weeks. If you havent heard back, email or phone the bursary coordinator.

5. Receive the Funds

Once approved, youll be notified of the amount and the method of payment. Check that the funds cover the intended expense and keep any receipts for future reference.

What Happens If Your Circumstances Change?

College bursary teams are required to reassess eligibility if a students financial situation alters significantly during the academic year (e.g., loss of a job, change in benefit status). Promptly inform the provider to avoid overpayment that may need to be repaid.

Common Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for the bursary more than once?

Yes. You can apply each academic year, and in some cases multiple times within a year if you have different needs (e.g., new equipment for a second semester).

Will the bursary affect my other benefits?

No. The 1619 BF is a nonmeanstested support that does not count as income for the purposes of benefits such as Universal Credit.

What if my college runs out of funds?

Funding allocations are set at the start of each financial year. If the local pool is exhausted, the college may prioritize the most pressing needs. Its advisable to apply early.

Can I use the bursary for a university course?

No. The fund is only for nonhighereducation providers (colleges, sixthforms, apprenticeships). Universitylevel students must look to other sources such as student loans or scholarships.

Success Stories

Below are a few examples of how the 1619 Bursary Fund has made a real difference:

• Emma, 18, Birmingham: Received 150 to purchase a professional sewing machine, enabling her to complete a Level 3 Fashion & Textiles course.
• Jamal, 19, Manchester: Covered weekly bus fares (45 per term) while training as a CNC machinist, allowing him to attend a daily workbased placement.
• Aisha, 17, London: Secured childcare vouchers worth 200, which made it possible for her to attend evening classes while caring for her infant.

How to Find More Information

For detailed guidance, visit the official government page on the 1619 Bursary Fund or contact your colleges student finance office. Most institutions also provide printed brochures and onetoone advice sessions.

Visit the Government Guidance

Remember, the fund is there to help you stay on track with your education and future career. If you think you might be eligible, start the application process early the sooner you apply, the sooner you can focus on your studies without worrying about extra costs.