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Devolved Formula Capital (DFC) calculator

Free tool

Applies to England. Indicative 2026/27 calculation using the published 2025/26 DFC base rate and lump sum.

Inputs

Use 2025 spring census-equivalent figures. Decimals are allowed for nursery or FTE-style entries.

Whole pupils only. Enter secondary pupils excluding separately counted post-16 figures.

Use 2025 spring census / ILR-equivalent figures where relevant. Decimals are allowed.

Use special, PRU, alternative provision, hospital school, or boarder figures as relevant.

Outputs

Rates shown for 2026-27 using the published 2025/26 DFC base rate.

Formula

GBP 4,000 + (GBP 11.25 x weighted pupils)

Nursery / Primary

0 x 1 = 0 weighted pupils

£0.00

Secondary

0 x 1.5 = 0 weighted pupils

£0.00

Post-16

0 x 2 = 0 weighted pupils

£0.00

Special / PRU / AP / Boarders

0 x 4.5 = 0 weighted pupils

£0.00

Weighted pupil subtotal0
Base DFC total£4,000.00
Final indicative total£4,000.00

Grant timing and conditions

  • Indicative assumption for this calculator: use 2025 spring census-equivalent figures, including sole and dual-main registrations where relevant.
  • Pupil counts are weighted by setting before applying the per-pupil rate.
  • DFC is usually paid as a single annual payment in June.
  • Capital funding is based on financial years running from April to March.
  • DFC should be spent within 3 financial years, with the payment year treated as year 1.
  • Voluntary aided schools attract an 8% uplift to account for VAT.

Useful resources

Guidance and use

  • This calculator follows the published 2025 to 2026 DFC methodology as an indicative basis for 2026/27 because the 2026/27 methodology had not been published as of 9 March 2026.
  • Weighted settings used here are Nursery / Primary 1.0, Secondary 1.5, Post-16 2.0, and Special / PRU / AP / Boarders 4.5.
  • Local authorities pass DFC on to maintained schools, while academies, VA bodies, non-maintained special schools, and eligible specialist providers receive DFC directly from DfE.

Important note

Indicative calculator only. As of 9 March 2026, final 2026/27 DFC methodology and allocations had not been published on GOV.UK. Always verify funding, grant conditions, and payment details against official DfE publications.