novembre 5, 2026
Free School Meals — Northern Ireland
Free meals for eligible school pupils based on qualifying benefits or special circumstances.
What support is available?
Free meals for eligible school pupils based on qualifying benefits or special circumstances.
Who may qualify?
Children attending relevant Northern Ireland schools whose households meet the published benefit and income criteria.
How to apply
Check entitlement and submit the application using Education Authority guidance linked from nidirect.
Availability
The 2026–27 Universal Credit earnings threshold and other criteria are set in official guidance.
Official source: Check current eligibility and application instructions.
Independent signposting only. Please confirm current rules with the responsible authority.
Support details & application
Coverage: Northern Ireland
What this support offers
Free meals for eligible school pupils based on qualifying benefits or special circumstances.
Who may qualify?
Children attending relevant Northern Ireland schools whose households meet the published benefit and income criteria.
How to apply
Check entitlement and submit the application using Education Authority guidance linked from nidirect.
Availability and restrictions
The 2026–27 Universal Credit earnings threshold and other criteria are set in official guidance.
Editorial check: 2026-11-05
Official provider information ↗
Official application or next steps ↗
PublicHelp is independent. This information is not an eligibility decision. Rules, funding and opening periods may change.