Free College Meals 2026/27

Find out what's changed & if you're eligible.

a hand holding a meal on a plate with the college logo in the background.

Changes to Eligibility for Students Receiving Universal Credit

From the start of the 2026/27 academic year, eligibility for free meals in further education is changing. These changes will make free college meals available to more students and families receiving Universal Credit.

Expanded Eligibility for Free College Meals

More Students Can Access Support

From September 2026, students from households receiving Universal Credit will be eligible for free meals in further education, regardless of household income.

What You Need to Know

Students may qualify if they are:

Aged 16 or over, but under 19 on 31 August 2026

Or

Aged 19 or over and either:

  • Continuing on the same study programme started before turning 19 (19+ continuers), or
  • Have an Education, Health and Care (EHC) Plan

You can apply for free college meals through our online application system.

Before You Apply

Please ensure you:

  • Review the evidence requirements carefully
  • Upload clear and valid supporting documentation
  • Provide accurate contact information so we can process your application quickly

Apply Online


Eligible students will receive meals provided on the college campus or receive BACs payments to purchase food for lunch when their main site does not have onsite catering facilities.

All students will receive a Student Card which will allow Free College Meals (FCM) students to access their meals allowance.

Eligibility for Free College Meals includes:

  • Income Support
  • Universal Credit
  • Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance
  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
  • Support under part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
  • The guarantee element of State Pension Credit
  • Child Tax Credit (provided not entitled to Working Tax Credit and with annual gross income not exceeding £16,190)
  • Working Tax Credit run-on

Once your application has been submitted:

  1. Our Student Financial Support Team will review your application.
  2. We will assess the evidence provided.
  3. You'll receive confirmation of your eligibility via your registered email address.
  4. If additional information is required, we'll contact you with details of what is needed.

Don't Miss Out

If your household receives Universal Credit, you may now be entitled to free college meals from the 2026/27 academic year.

Apply today through Pay My Student and ensure your application is ready for assessment.

Need Help?

If you have questions about eligibility, supporting evidence, or the application process, our Student Financial Support Team is here to help.

Contact us for support and guidance before submitting your application.

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