Bursary applications for the 2026-27 academic year are now open. There are two deadlines for this process:
– Friday 10 July. Deadline for incoming students and Year 13 students applying for the first time who wish support to be in place from the first day of teaching
– Friday 27 November. Application portal closes. Applications can be made 10 July – 27 November but please note we cannot guarantee when outcomes will be provided. It is therefore strongly advised that applicants apply by 10 July.
The below table is for information purposes only regarding the College’s eligibility criteria for the 2026-27 academic year. You can also review the Bursary Fund Policy for full and detailed information here. Please note that the eligibility criteria is subject to change in year due to amendments in funding regulations.
Eligibility for bursary
HNC operates a tiered approach to bursary. Please note that all applications are individually assessed on financial need, and that even if your household income meets the criteria, this is not a guarantee that bursary will be granted. The following table provides further information and guidance.
Other important information:
– Students must use their own personal email address when submitting the application. We cannot accept applications made by parents/carers on behalf of students.
– Applicants must ensure that all required evidence is attached. Applications that do not contain the required supporting evidence will automatically be rejected and an applicant will need to start their application again
| Priority 1 Defined Vulnerable Groups (DVG) | Up to £1200 per annum (in kind benefits in the first instance) | Usually limited to a small group of students including those in care, care leavers or receipt of benefits in their own name such as Universal Credit, PIP or Income Support. Where applicants indicate a yes response to questions that identify if an applicant will fall into priority 1, we will contact them with further information and to arrange a meeting/ further information. At this point the applicant will be advised what supporting information is required. |
| Priority 2/3 Discretionary Bursary | Household income of £28000 or less per annum | A catering allowance equal to a meal deal per day and an Mcard bus pass, if required and if eligible. Bus passes are only available to those students whose registered address is two or more miles from HNC (post code based) of the College & those who rely solely on public transport. Students may also receive support for essential resources/ trips. Supporting evidence that must be attached (as relevant): Catering allowance: * Proof of being in receipt of free school meals while at school or a copy of proof from DfE student records confirming the applicant has been in receipt of free school meals (for applicants who have received FSM previously) Travel allowance (as applicable to household circumstances): * Universal Credit full statement for the past 3 months, demonstrating all paid income and deductions * If not in receipt of Universal Credit, the last three payslips will be required * Award letter for Employment Support Allowance during 2026 * If self employed, the self assessment tax calculation form (SA302) |
| Priority 4/5 Discretionary Bursary | Applicants who have received free school meals previously or are in receipt of Universal Credit | * Proof of being in receipt of free school meals while at school or a copy of proof from DfE student records confirming the applicant has been in receipt of free school meals (for applicants who have received this previously) or: * Proof of being in receipt of Universal Credit * Proof of support under part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 (if applicable) The College also provides support in response to immediate, emergency financial hardship. Please see the bursary policy for further information. |




