Student loans and allowances

You apply directly on the StudyLink website.

We recommend that you apply for your student loan or student allowance two months before your study starts, so that you have plenty of time to resolve any problems that might arise. You can always change your mind, or change the details on your application if you need to.

You will need to reapply for your student loan and student allowance every year.

Why apply early?

You should apply early for several reasons:

• Student loans takes a minimum of three weeks to be approved and paid. During peak periods (December to March), you should allow another week for delays.
• Your fees are due on the first day your study begins. If you don’t pay your fees on time, you risk being removed from study. It is your responsibility to make sure your fees are paid on time. See Paying your fees.
• Student allowance and student loan living costs payments can only be made from the date StudyLink receives your application, or from the start date of your study (whichever is later). If you apply late, you may not receive the full amount that you would otherwise be entitled to.
• Student allowance applications usually need documentation before they can be finalised, including evidence of your own income. If you are under 24, you will need to supply evidence of both parents' incomes. Special circumstances may also mean you need to fill in other forms. Make sure you provide all the information you need to or your application may be delayed.

For more information about student loans and student allowances, please visit the StudyLink website.

For more information regarding your student loan repayment obligations, please visit the Inland Revenue Student Loan website.