Over 19 Full-time
If you are a full-time student over 19 years of age on 1st September and you are claiming state benefits or are on low income you may be entitled to the following financial assistance:
1. Assembly Learning Grant (ALG) of up to £1,500 per year.
2. A (multi-ride equivalent) Travel Pass valid all year.
3. Meal Vouchers for use in College canteen.
4. Assistance towards book tokens for course textbooks or specialist equipment for certain courses.1. Assembly Learning Grant (ALG)
You may be eligible for a grant of up to £1,500 per year if you are over 19 years of age on the 31st August and you are studying at the College for 275 hours or more per year (average of about 8 hours per week over a 35 week course).
The ALG is a means tested grant and is calculated on the household income:
| Annual Household Income | Part-time (275-499 hours) | Full-time (500+ hours) |
| Up to £5,895 | £750 | £1500 |
| £5,896 - £11,790 | £450 | £750 |
| £11,791 - £17,700 | £300 | £450 |
| £17,700 and above | £0 | £0 |
ALG’s - Don’t wait - If you intend claiming this grant you should apply as soon as possible. For more information visit Student Finance Wales at www.studentfinancewales.co.uk or call on 0845 602 8845.
You can download an application form or pick one up form Student Services reception at Trowbridge or City Road.
If your application is successful Student Finance Wales will contact you by letter. The grant will be paid into your bank account in three instalments - one per term.
The award of an ALG will not alter your entitlement to benefits or the way in which the Inland Revenue assesses you for tax purposes.
2. Travel help for Students Over 19
Students applying for help with travel costs to the Student Support Fund will usually be offered either a bus pass, (for use on any Cardiff Bus route) or a rail pass (for use on any Valley Lines rail service).
Travel passes from the Student Support Fund can also be used at weekends and in holiday periods. Travel passes will be renewable at the start of each new term.
3. Over 19 meal allowance
A college canteen meal allowance is available to full time students who are:
- Over 19 years of age on 1st September
- In receipt of Income Support or whose parents/guardians are in receipt of Income Support or Income based Job Seekers Allowance.
4. Book tokens for course textbooks or specialist equipment
Students can apply to The Student Support Fund for assistance with costs towards books or specialist equipment for certain courses.
