More support for students

20 May 2021.

Student support will increase and the Training Incentive Allowance will support degree-level study and below for sole parents on a benefit, as well as carers and disabled people on Supported Living Payment.

Increases to student support

From 1 April 2022, Student Allowance and the maximum entitlement for Student Loan for living costs will increase by $25 a week.

The increase will happen automatically for people getting Student Allowance on 1 April 2022.

Students getting Student Loan for living costs can apply to increase their maximum entitlement from 1 April 2022.

Student Allowance (after tax) per adult	Current Rates	Estimated 1 April 2022 rates*
Under 24, no children, living in parental home	$203.11	$232
Under 24, no children, not living in a parental home	$240.65	$270
Independent Circumstances Allowance	$240.65	$270
24 or older, no children, living in parental home	$233.13	$262
24 or older, no children, not living in parental home	$278.19	$308
Single student with children	$402.32	$434
Student Loan Living Costs	Up to $242.53	$272

*These rates include any estimated increases as a result of the Annual General Adjustment already scheduled for 1 April 2022.

Training Incentive Allowance for higher-level study

From 1 July 2021 to 1 January 2025, the Training Incentive Allowance will be available for degree-level study and below for sole parents on a benefit as well as carers and disabled people on Supported Living Payment.

The Training Incentive Allowance helps with upfront and ongoing costs of study, such as fees, books, transport and childcare costs.

Before 1 July 2021, Training Incentive Allowance is available for courses at levels 1 to 3 of the NZ Qualifications Framework.