Apply for low-income families
Applications made now will be for the new school year in September 2026.
Your child may be able to get free transport to school if they qualify for Targeted free school meals.
Before sending your application, please also check that you can answer yes to the relevant statements below.
What to check before you apply - for primary-aged pupils
- my child gets targeted free school meals
- my child is over 8 years old
- my child attends the nearest school which is more than 2 miles away
- I understand East Sussex County Council doesn’t offer travel to faith primary schools if there are closer non-faith alternatives
What to check before you apply - for secondary-aged pupils
- my child gets targeted free school meals
- my child goes to one of the 3 schools closest to their home
- the school is between 2 and 6 miles away
- my child goes to a faith school, and they attend the closest one between 2 and 15 miles away
Please note that distances up to two miles are measured using the shortest available walking route. Beyond 2 miles, distances are measured using roads only.
Entitled before 31 March 2025?
Some children will continue to receive free transport if they were getting it on 31 March 2025 even if they do not qualify for targeted free school meals. This will remain until the end of their current phase of education (or until they leave their current school if that is sooner).
Sixth form learners
Contact your college or sixth form to ask about financial support for travel. Please do not apply here.
Complete the form
Complete the form to apply for transport if your child qualifies for targeted free school meals.