Funding for childcare
If you have children who depend on you, a range of financial support is available.
For students with children, there are a number of sources of funds. Click on the links to find details, including the eligibility criteria. If you claim one type of childcare benefit, you may find that you are unable to claim another. Always seek advice.
- If you’re in full-time higher education, depending on your income, the Childcare Grant can cover up to 85% of your childcare costs up to a set limit.
- Also for full-time higher education students, the Parents' Learning Allowance can provide a grant to help with your learning costs.
- Universal Credit is a single, monthly payment that combines several other benefits, including the legacy Child Tax Credit and Working Tax Credit
- There is also a certain number of hours of free early education available for children aged 3 and 4 and, if you claim certain benefits, you may be able to get free education and childcare for 2-year-olds.
- Don’t forget that Child Benefit is available for all parents and carers of children and young people (not just those who are students).
For general information on support with childcare costs, see GOV.UK. You can find the details of Family Information Services (FIS) in your area by searching on the Family and Childcare Trust website. FIS will be able to give you information about local Ofsted-registered and other types of childcare along with advice on costs and funding.
See Which? Money for further information including the extra funding available as a student parent.