Starting July 2025, the UK government is rolling out a major expansion of the Free School Meals programme, extending eligibility to thousands more secondary school students.
As part of efforts to combat child food insecurity and support struggling families amid a persistent cost-of-living crisis, this policy shift will offer significant relief to low and middle-income households.
What’s New in the Free School Meals UK 2025 Update?
Previously, only children in primary schools or those in secondary schools whose families received Universal Credit and met a strict income threshold were eligible.
The updated eligibility rules now allow students from families earning up to £26,000 annually (net income) to apply for free meals—regardless of whether they receive Universal Credit.
This reflects the government’s acknowledgment of the rising number of working families who earn above the previous limit but still face difficulty affording daily school meals.
Updated Eligibility Criteria: Comparison Table
| Criteria | Before July 2025 | After July 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Income Threshold | Under £17,000 with Universal Credit | Under £26,000 with or without Universal Credit |
| School Type | Primarily Primary Schools | Primary and Secondary Schools |
| Student Age Range | 4–11 years | 4–16 years |
| Additional Circumstances | Limited | Includes disability, foster care, guardianship |
Why This Expansion Matters
The expansion to include more secondary students marks a shift in how the UK approaches nutritional equity in education.
Studies consistently show that hunger hinders academic performance, with children who receive proper nutrition more likely to attend school regularly, concentrate in class, and achieve better results.
Additionally, schools offering free meals will receive increased Pupil Premium funding, allowing them to introduce after-school programmes, hire support staff, and implement tailored academic interventions.
These initiatives aim to narrow the achievement gap often linked to economic disadvantage.
How to Apply for Free School Meals in 2025
Applying is straightforward and handled through local councils. Most authorities now offer a digital application portal that requires:
- Proof of income
- Parental or guardian ID
- School enrollment verification
Families facing barriers such as language challenges or lack of internet access can receive help from local outreach programmes and council helplines. Once approved, eligibility typically lasts the entire academic year and is renewed automatically unless income circumstances change significantly.
Savings for Families
With average school lunches costing around £2.50 per day, parents can save up to £12.50 per child per week. Over a full school term, this adds up to £200+, and for a full academic year, families with two eligible children can save nearly £600–£800.
Impact on Education and Cost of Living
The policy is part of the UK’s broader response to inflation and rising costs that are hitting lower- and middle-income households. It also supports the educational success of children from economically vulnerable backgrounds.
The 2025 expansion ensures that no student between ages 4 and 16 in state-funded schools needs to miss a nutritious lunch due to financial strain, reinforcing both public health and equal opportunity.
The UK’s expansion of Free School Meals in July 2025 is a crucial lifeline for thousands of families. By broadening eligibility to include secondary students and those earning up to £26,000 annually, the government is addressing not just hunger—but educational inequality.
Families should act swiftly to apply and take full advantage of this important support.
FAQs
Who qualifies for Free School Meals under the 2025 update?
Children aged 4–16 in state-funded schools whose family earns under £26,000, regardless of benefit status, are eligible.
Are academies and free schools included?
Yes, the programme applies to all publicly funded schools, including academies and free schools.
Does this change apply to sixth form or college students?
No, the current eligibility expansion only applies to students up to age 16. Post-16 support follows different schemes.