4th June 2026
Free School Meals and Uniform Grants – September 2026 Applications now open
Applications for Free School Meals and Uniform Grants for the school year starting September 2026 are now open. You do not need to wait until the start of the school year to apply for this valuable support.
Eligibility and how to apply
To be eligible for free school meals and a uniform grant, households need to be in receipt of a qualifying benefit, such as Universal Credit and have annual net household earnings not exceeding £15,900.
Children with a Statement of Special Educational Needs (Stage 3) who require a medically prescribed special diet may be eligible for Free School Meals even if their parent or carer is not in receipt of a qualifying benefit or they are in receipt of Universal Credit but are above the earnings threshold.
See EA Guidance For Provision of Special Diets In Schools for further information.
For more information and how to apply for Free School Meals and the Uniform Grant go to the Education Authority NI website at eani.org.uk
Applications can be made at any time during the year, to reflect that household and family circumstances can change at any time. The Education Authority will aim to inform parents of their decision within 4 weeks of receiving the application, however during peak times, such as August and September, the processing period can take up to 5 weeks. If you delay your application it may not be processed in time for the free school meals to be in place for start of school in September, there is no alternative financial assistance that can be awarded in lieu of free school meals, this also means that no back payments can be made.
What are the Uniform Grant rates?
Payment of the Uniform Grant will be made directly to the bank or building society account that you gave on the application at least 10 days after you have received your approval confirmation. If no bank/building society details were entered or if you gave incorrect account details you will receive a cheque by post however this may delay receipt of the grant.
How much is this support worth
| Uniform Grant | Total |
|---|---|
| Primary School pupils born on or before 1 July 2022 | £42.90 |
| Secondary School and Special School pupils Under 15 years of age on 1 August 2026 | £87.60 |
| Secondary School and Special School pupils 15 years of age or over on 1 August 2026 | £93.60 |
| Pupils at Regional Colleges / FE Colleges who are not in receipt of any financial support and where Physical Education is part of their course | £26.40 |
Further information
To find out if your family could be entitled to free school meals or a uniform grant – or other financial support – contact the Family Benefits Advice Service on fbas@employersforchildcare.org.