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For working parents & studentsOfsted Registered

Childcare Funding Support

You could get help with up to

85%

of your eligible childcare costs

If you’re working and receiving Universal Credit, or studying and receiving Student Finance, you may be entitled to financial support towards eligible registered childcare costs – including qualifying after-school childcare.

Check my eligibility →
  • Quick 60-second check
  • No obligation
  • We’ll explain the next steps

Eligibility and the amount of support available depend on individual circumstances and the applicable government scheme. Study Buddies does not determine eligibility.

Making childcare more affordable

Which best describes your situation?

Choose an option below to see what support you may be entitled to.

I’m working / receive Universal CreditWorking parents receiving Universal Credit may be able to claim back up to 85% of eligible registered childcare costs, subject to the applicable rules and limits.Check Universal Credit support →I’m a student / receive Student FinanceEligible full-time students with dependent children may be able to receive a Childcare Grant covering up to 85% of eligible childcare costs, subject to the applicable rules and limits.Check Student Finance support →

How it works

Find out what support you may get in three simple steps

  1. 1

    Answer a few simple questions

    Our quick online checker will help you understand what support you may be able to access.

  2. 2

    Understand your options

    We’ll explain the relevant childcare funding route and what you may need to do next.

  3. 3

    Speak to Study Buddies

    Our team can discuss your child’s requirements and explain how eligible childcare funding may be used towards our registered childcare provision.

Eligibility checker

See what support you may be entitled to

Eligibility checker

Which best describes you?

Takes about 60 seconds · No obligation

Universal Credit Childcare Support

  • You may be able to claim back up to 85% of eligible childcare costs.
  • Registered childcare can include qualifying after-school and holiday childcare.
  • Support is available for working parents receiving Universal Credit.
  • Monthly limits apply and change each year. Check the current limits on GOV.UK.
Check my eligibility →GOV.UK guidance ↗
A mother reading with her daughter
Example

If eligible childcare costs were £100, Universal Credit could potentially contribute up to £85, subject to eligibility, applicable limits and the relevant rules.

Universal Credit contributionYou pay

Student Finance Childcare Grant

  • Eligible full-time students with dependent children may receive a Childcare Grant.
  • The grant can cover up to 85% of eligible childcare costs.
  • It doesn’t have to be paid back.
  • Weekly limits and household income thresholds apply and change each academic year. Check the current figures on GOV.UK.
Check my eligibility →GOV.UK guidance ↗
A student parent studying while his son colours beside him

Already have your Childcare Grant?

Speak to us about your childcare requirements and how you may be able to use your funding with Study Buddies.

WhatsApp us →

FAQs

Questions parents ask

Can’t find your answer? Call us on 0203 633 2829.

What is the Universal Credit childcare element?

It's part of Universal Credit that can help working parents with registered childcare costs. You may be able to claim back up to 85% of the eligible childcare costs you've paid, up to a monthly limit. Monthly limits apply and change each year. Check the current limits on GOV.UK.

What is the Student Finance Childcare Grant?

A grant for eligible full-time higher education students with dependent children. It can cover up to 85% of eligible registered childcare costs, up to a weekly limit, and depends on household income. It doesn't have to be paid back. Weekly limits and household income thresholds apply and change each academic year. Check the current figures on GOV.UK.

Can childcare funding be used for after-school clubs?

Registered childcare can include qualifying after-school and holiday childcare. Study Buddies is an Ofsted-registered provider. Speak to us and we'll explain how eligible childcare funding may be used towards our registered provision.

Can I receive Universal Credit childcare support and the Student Finance Childcare Grant at the same time?

Usually not. The Childcare Grant generally can't be claimed if you or your partner receive the Universal Credit childcare element or Tax-Free Childcare. Check GOV.UK or speak to us and we'll point you in the right direction.

I've already been approved for the Childcare Grant – what do I do next?

Great! Get in touch with us by phone or WhatsApp. We'll discuss your child's requirements and the details you'll need to use your Childcare Grant with Study Buddies.

How do I apply?

Universal Credit childcare costs are reported through your Universal Credit online account. The Childcare Grant is applied for through Student Finance. Our team can explain the process and help you with the information you need from us as your childcare provider.

Does Study Buddies decide whether I qualify?

No. Our checker is indicative only. Eligibility and the amount of support are decided by the relevant government body, based on your circumstances and the current rules.

What information will I need?

Usually details of your childcare provider (that's us), your childcare costs and receipts or invoices, and information about your work or studies and household. We'll help you with everything you need from Study Buddies.

Not sure if you’re eligible?

Speak to our friendly team. We’ll be happy to talk you through the options and explain the next steps.

Chat with us on WhatsApp 0203 633 2829