Find out if you’re entitled to free school meals and help with uniform costs
The EA is advising parents to apply for support before the last Friday in July to guarantee the support is in place for the start of the new school term in September
The Education Authority (EA) has opened the application portal for Free School Meals and Uniform Grants ahead of the academic year starting in September 2026.
More than 92,000 children and young people across Northern Ireland are currently receiving a free school meal.
Some parents are also entitled to a grant towards the cost of their child’s uniform.
Although applications for Free School Meals and Uniform Allowance can be made all through the year, the EA is advising parents to apply before the last Friday in July to guarantee the support is in place for the start of the new school term in September.
Under the eligibility criteria, parent and carers who receive any of the following are encouraged to apply for Free School Meals and Uniform Allowance through the EA’s online portal, EA Connect.
Income Related Employment and Support Allowance
Guarantee Element of State Pension Credit
Universal Credit and have net household earnings not exceeding £15,900 per year.
Pupils who have a statement of SEN at stage 3 and are designated to need a special diet may also be entitled to free school meals.
In addition, Asylum Seekers supported by the Home Office Asylum Support Assessment Team (ASAT) can also apply.
Information on the supporting documentation needed when making an application can be found on the EA website - where there are a selection of resources including step-by-step video guides to using EA Connect.
The EA’s Free School Meals and Uniform Allowance Helpdesk is open from Monday to Friday, 9am – 4pm, and can be contacted by phone on 028 9047 0233 or email [email protected]