The College administers Learner Support Funds provided by the Government to support Further Education students' financial needs. This can help to pay for accommodation, travel, books, equipment and childcare.

The College is a member of EGAS, an organisation which helps to provide grants for students in need. Student Registry will provide further information and application forms for all support funds.

For Higher Education programmes a means-tested grant is available for new full-time students from low-income families. Applications for this new grant are made through students’ Local Education Authority (LEA). Students may also qualify for fee reductions paid via their LEA.

A new package of support was introduced in 2005 for part-time HE students. Details of the schemes for 2008 can be found on the Department for Children, Schools and Families website at www.dfes.gov.uk/studentsupport

Higher Education students may also apply for some modest financial support from the University of London. Financial support is available for those on low incomes who would otherwise be prevented from entering, or continuing in, higher education. A summary of the types of financial support available can be found on the Birkbeck College web site at: http://www.bbk.ac.uk/reg/#fees

Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA)
EMAs of up to £30 a week are available for 16-18 year old full-time students living in a household with an annual income of £30,000 or less. Further details are available from Student Registry and www.ema.direct.gov.uk/ema.html

Adult Learner Grants
ALG is a means tested allowance of up to £30 per week available to adults resident in England studying full time for a first full level 2 or first full level 3 qualification. Further details are available from Student Registry and www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/AdultLearning