Part-Time Education Option

The Part-Time Education Option (PTEO) allows you to keep your Jobseeker's Allowance, Jobseeker's Benefit, Jobseeker's Pay-Related Benefitor Jobseeker's Benefit (Self-Employed) and attend a part-time day or evening course of education or training.

You must continue to meet the conditions for Jobseeker’s Benefit, Jobseeker's Pay-Related Benefit, Jobseeker's Benefit (Self-Employed) or Jobseeker’s Allowance. This means that you must be able to show that you are still actively looking for full time work, willing to take up work and that the course is likely to improve your chances of getting a job. If you are offered work while on the course you will be expected to accept the job offer.

You can qualify for PTEO if you are:

• getting Jobseeker's Allowance, Jobseeker's Benefit, Jobseeker's Pay-Related Benefit, or Jobseeker's Benefit (Self-Employed)

You can be any age and may be unemployed for any length of time before starting a part-time course of education.

There is no separate rate for the PTEO, you will continue to get your Jobseeker’s Allowance, Jobseeker’s Benefit or Jobseeker's Benefit (Self-Employed) at your usual rate.

Apply through your local Intreo Centre using the PTEO1 form.

Note: Before you start a course your local Intreo Centre must approve it.

Operational guidelines describe the processes and procedures that staff in the department follow when carrying out their work.

Operational Guidelines: Back to Education - Part-Time Education Option