A Guide to the Condition Improvement Fund (CIF): Key information for schools

The Condition Improvement Fund (CIF) 2025-2026 application window was opened on the 22nd of October. The Department for Education (DfE) had also published vital information about the application process and the fund, offering a vital opportunity for educational establishments to secure funding for critical building improvements. Understanding CIF, its eligibility criteria, and the application process is an important part of ensuring that your school is prepared to apply for this competitive funding. 

What is the Condition Improvement Fund (CIF)? 

The CIF is a capital funding programme managed by the DfE. It’s designed to help with urgent building and infrastructure issues in educational institutions, with a focus on critical repairs and urgent improvements. These projects typically include building safety matters, fire protection systems, gas safety, electrical safety or emergency asbestos removal. 

CIF also funds a small number of expansion projects where the school needs to expand their existing facilities and/or floor space to either increase admissions or address overcrowding. All CIF projects, including condition and expansion, must aim to improve a capital asset that is being used to provide educational services to students aged 2 to 19. 

Who is eligible for CIF 2025-2026? 

To apply for CIF, schools and trusts must meet specific eligibility criteria by the start of September 2024. Eligible institutions include: 

– Stand-alone academy 

– School in a multi-academy trust (MAT) with fewer than five schools or fewer than 3,000 pupils as counted in the Spring 2024 census or 2023/24 Individualised Learner Record (ILR) 

– Voluntary Aided (VA) school in a VA body or VA group with fewer than five schools or fewer than 3,000 pupils as counted in the Spring 2024 census or 2023/24 ILR. 

– Sixth-form college. 

– School with a signed academy order as of 1 September 2024 that the department expects will convert to a CIF-eligible responsible body by 1 April 2025. 

If your institution is eligible, the DfE will invite you to bid for funding. It should be noted that getting this invitation means that your responsible body will not receive any SCA funding for the financial year on your behalf. As a result, it is critical that you only apply for CIF finance if you meet certain investment conditions. 

Schools with the most pressing needs, particularly those at risk of closing if difficulties are not addressed, will receive priority consideration for funding. Schools must establish the project’s urgency as well as its possible impact on safety and operations. 

Key dates for CIF 2025-2026 

The timeline for CIF applications is strict, so it’s essential that you keep track of these important deadlines: 

How CIF applications are assessed 

CIF applications are evaluated using a point-based system; that is why it is crucial to understand how your application will be scored. 

– Project Need (60 points): This is the most severely weighted category. The more pressing the necessity (for example, preventing school closure or addressing health problems), the higher your score. 

– Project Cost (25 points): Applications with clear financial planning and higher percentage contributions from the school or trust will receive higher scores. 

– Project Planning (15 points): Priority is given to projects with clear timeframes and deadlines, particularly those that minimise disruption to school operations and functioning. 

Strengthening your CIF application 

A successful CIF application is based on thorough preparation, strong evidence, and a clear explanation for funding. Here are some important tips: 

– Create a compelling statement of need that explains the importance of your project and the potential hazards if not achieved. Emphasise how the initiative will improve safety, lower hazards, or avoid potential closures. 

– Providing photographic evidence of structural issues, safety dangers, or deteriorating conditions can improve your case. 

– Submit supporting documentation, such as professional surveys, contractor estimates, and condition reports, to highlight the scope and urgency of the problem. 

– Applications with well-planned budgets, clear quotations, and fixed-price contracts are more likely to score well because they show cost certainty. If your school can help financially, even if it is a modest amount, your application will be more credible. 

– Emphasising urgent timelines can be a great nudge for your application. If your project requires rapid attention to reduce hazards or minimise disturbance, make sure to include this information in your application. 

Applying for CIF 2025-2026 

To apply, follow these steps: 

– Checking eligibility: Make sure you meet the CIF criteria for 2025-2026. 

– Registering: If you’re a new applicant, it is advisable to register on the CIF portal by the end of November 2024. 

– Preparing your application: Gather all necessary evidence, including photos, condition surveys, and cost estimates. Take time to carefully draft your statement of need and do a final check before submitting the application. 

– Submitting application: Keep in mind that the CIF application window opened on 22nd October, and the deadline for submissions is 10th December 2024. 

– Waiting for the outcome: The DfE will inform you of the outcome in May 2025. 

The Condition Improvement Fund provides an important opportunity for schools to address vital facility requirements while also improving safety for staff and students. As a school leader or school administrative staff, understanding the application procedure and meticulously preparing your application will help you boost your chances of success. Make sure your application clearly states the importance of your project, has solid supporting documentation, and exhibits a well-planned budget. 

If you are applying for CIF 2025-2026, begin planning early, gather detailed evidence, and create a persuasive case to secure this critical money for your school. For further information, check the government’s CIF guideline page.