The cost of raising children is rising year after year, and for many UK families, the price of school lunches can quickly add up. Luckily, Free School Meals (FSM) is a government scheme designed to ensure that every child has access to at least one nutritious meal during the school day — without adding extra financial pressure to parents.
From September 2025, the eligibility rules for Free School Meals will see some important updates. This means thousands of families could now qualify who previously didn’t, but others may need to check if they still meet the requirements.
In this guide, we’ll explain who qualifies, how to apply, and what’s changing in 2025 so you don’t miss out.
What Are Free School Meals?
Free School Meals (FSM) is a support scheme run by local councils in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Eligible children get a free hot meal every school day, helping ensure they have the nutrition they need to learn and grow.
Apart from the obvious financial help, FSM also plays a big role in supporting children’s health and academic performance.
Who Is Eligible for Free School Meals in 2025?
Eligibility rules differ slightly between UK nations, but in England from September 2025, your child may qualify if you receive any of these benefits:
- Universal Credit (household income of £8,000 or less after tax, excluding benefits)
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
- Child Tax Credit (annual income not over £16,190, and not receiving Working Tax Credit)
- Working Tax Credit run-on (paid for 4 weeks after you stop qualifying)
Special Notes:
- All children in Reception, Year 1, and Year 2 get Free School Meals automatically, regardless of income.
- In Scotland, all primary school pupils get free meals from 2025.
- In Wales, free meals are being rolled out for all primary pupils by 2025.
Changes Coming in 2025
From September 2025:
- The Universal Credit income threshold will be reviewed and potentially increased due to inflation.
- Some councils may extend FSM to low-income working families who currently don’t qualify.
- Wider rollouts in Scotland and Wales mean nearly all primary-aged children will be covered.
These changes aim to make the scheme more inclusive and ensure that no child goes hungry during the school day.
Why It’s Important to Apply Even If You Automatically Qualify
Even if your child is in Reception, Year 1, or Year 2 (and gets meals automatically), you should still register if you meet the income requirements.
Why? Because registering can unlock extra school funding through the Pupil Premium — worth hundreds of pounds per child — which schools use for extra teaching staff, activities, and learning resources.
How to Apply for Free School Meals in 2025
- Check Your Eligibility – Visit your local council’s website or GOV.UK FSM checker.
- Gather Required Documents – Benefit statements, proof of income, or National Insurance number.
- Submit Application Online or by Post – Most councils offer an online application form.
- Wait for Confirmation – Schools or councils will confirm if your child qualifies.
Common Reasons Families Miss Out
- Assuming they don’t qualify because they work part-time.
- Not applying when children are in early years, missing out on Pupil Premium funding.
- Confusion about benefit rules and income thresholds.
Extra Benefits of Registering for FSM
Apart from free lunches, qualifying can give your child access to:
- Help with school trip costs
- Free or reduced-price school uniforms
- Free breakfast clubs in some schools
- Priority access to holiday food schemes
Table: Quick FSM Eligibility Check (England 2025)
| Benefit Received | Eligible? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Universal Credit (income ≤ £8,000) | Yes | Must meet income limit |
| Income Support | Yes | — |
| Income-based JSA | Yes | — |
| Income-related ESA | Yes | — |
| Child Tax Credit (income ≤ £16,190) | Yes | No Working Tax Credit |
| Working Tax Credit run-on | Yes | 4 weeks after stopping work |
| No Benefits | No | Unless in Reception, Year 1 or Year 2 |
Final Thoughts
Free School Meals are more than just a lunch — they’re a lifeline for many families. With changes coming in 2025, it’s worth checking right now if your child qualifies. You could save hundreds of pounds a year and help your child’s school get vital funding.
Don’t miss out — check your eligibility today through your local council’s website.
Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only and does not replace official government guidance. Always check the latest rules on GOV.UK or your local council’s website before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: My child gets free meals already — do I need to reapply in 2025?
If you’re in Scotland or Wales, no. In England, check your local council rules.
Q: Can children in secondary school get FSM?
Yes, if your household meets the income or benefits criteria.
Q: Are FSM meals healthy?
Yes, schools must meet nutritional standards set by the government.