Thanh's story

Thanh is studying A Levels in mathematics, law, chemistry and psychology. She is able to claim Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) to help pay for things like books and stationery and this allows her to concentrate on her studies.

To receive EMA, Thanh is responsible for making sure that she attends all her lessons on time and gets her teachers to sign to confirm this.

Although there are conditions attached to receiving EMA, Thanh feels she has really benefited from it. She has even felt more motivated to attend her lessons as there are financial bonuses on offer as well. Any earnings Thanh gets from her part-time job do not affect her EMA.

'My parents are pleased I am getting the EMA too; it means that they can save on the household income by not having to give me money for travel and books.'

After completing her A Levels, Thanh plans to go to university. She will research her options and seek further advice on any financial support that she may be entitled to in higher education, such as the non-repayable Maintenance Grant.