Student Allowance for 16-17 year olds
Find out how much you can get for the Student Allowance if you are 16-17 years' old.
On this page:
How much you can get depends on:
If you're studying at tertiary level
If you are 16 or 17 years you may qualify for a Student Allowance if you meet the standard Student Allowance eligibility criteria and:
- have a supported child or
- qualify for Independent Circumstances Allowance or
- have completed year 13 or attained 42 NCEA credits at level 3 or
- attained 42 credits or more at level 4 on the National Qualifications Framework (NZQF) or
- attained other qualifications that are equivalent to 42 credits or more at NCEA level 3, such as an overseas qualification or
- gained admission into a full-time tertiary course which has academic entry requirements equivalent to or greater than 42 NCEA credits at level 3.
These criteria also apply if you were homeschooled.
Note: NZQA does not assess the 'equivalent' status of secondary school qualifications. A student will need to provide independent evidence from a suitably qualified person to support their application. This person could be an academic or other professional with relevant expertise.
If you're studying at secondary school
You can get the Student Allowance if you are studying at a secondary school and you have a partner and children in your care.
Independent Circumstances Allowance
If you have exceptional circumstances that mean it would be unreasonable for you to live with your parents and receive financial support from them, you may qualify for an Independent Circumstances Allowance.
Youth Services
If you don’t meet the criteria for Student Allowance, you may be eligible for other types of assistance.
Youth Payment
The Youth Payment is for young people aged 16-17 who do not have dependent children, and
- are not being supported by their parents or
- are, or have been, married, in a civil union, or in a de facto relationship
Young Parent Payment
The Young Parent Payment is for young people aged 16 -18 years who have dependent children and
- are single or
- are, or have been, married, in a civil union, or in a de facto relationship
There are some obligations you need to meet to get the Youth Payment and the Young Parent Payment.
Away from Home Allowance
Your parents may be able to get the Away from Home Allowance if you live away from home to study and you are aged 16-17 years. See the Work and Income website for more information
