AGE Grants

16 – 24 Year Old Age Grants

The Apprenticeship Grant or “AGE Grant” as it is often known as, was introduced by the Skills Funding Agency (SFA) to support business that would not otherwise be in a position to recruit apprentices aged 16-24 through an Apprenticeship Programme and has already helped thousands of UK businesses to secure the necessary skills & knowledge to aid their continued growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the AGE Grant worth to employers?

The Skills Funding Agency will provide £1500 per apprentices subject to the employer and apprentices meeting the eligibility criteria.

As an employer, are we eligible for the AGE Grant?

To be eligible you must have fewer than 50 employees in the UK and not had an employee start an Apprenticeship in the 12-month period before the start date of the first apprentice for whom you apply for the AGE grant.

How many times can I claim for the Grant?

You can claim up to 5 Grants during the time the Grant is available, only one Grant will be paid per employer for any particular individual and you must commit to employ your apprentice (s) for a minimum of 12 months or the time it takes to complete their Apprenticeship whichever is the greater.

Do all Apprentices qualify for the Grant?

The AGE Grant is designed to support the creation of new jobs for 16-24 year olds. Eligible apprentices must be aged 16 – 24 on the start date recorded on the Individual Learning Record which will be completed and submitted to the Skills Funding Agency by your training provided.

Can Developing U help us apply for the Grant?

Developing U is a Registered Training Provider with the Skills Funding Agency and able to guide you through your AGE Grant application process. All Grant applications must be made through an approved training provider and cannot be made directly by Employers.

You will need to complete and sign a AGE 16 to 24 Employer Agreement to confirm your eligibility before your apprentice (s) start. You will also need to confirm how many apprentice you plan to recruit and remember you can claim a maximum of 5 Grants.

When can we expect to receive payment?

Once your AGE Grant application has been processed and confirm eligibility checks complete, you will received the value of £1500 once your apprentice(s) has completed 13 weeks of their Apprentice Programme or “In Learning” as it is often described, from the date as recorded on their Individual Learning Record provided by Developing U.

Payment will be sent to your training provider and the Grant will be transferred to you within 30 days of receipt.

Is the Grant exempt from VAT?

Yes

What if our Apprentice leaves or dismissed before 13 weeks?

If your apprentice(s) leaves or is dismissed before completing the 13 Weeks of their apprentice Programme “In Learning” period, you will not receive payment for the Grant.

Where can I find out more about the AGE Grant and Funding Rules?

For more information you can contact us today at Developing U on 0845 226 3454 or visit the Skills Funding Agency website: https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/education-and-skills-funding-agency