CPI process
Find out about the Consumer Price Index (CPI) process, how it may change what you can borrow in Student Loan living costs and how to access any increase to the limits.
On this page:
What is the CPI process?
On 1 April each year, the maximum amount of living costs available through the Student Loan Scheme is reviewed in line with the Consumers Price Index (CPI).
StudyLink will publish the new amount as it changes.
How does this change what you can borrow?
On 1 April each year, the maximum amount of living costs available through the Student Loan Scheme is reviewed inline with the Consumers Price Index (CPI).
StudyLink will publish the new amount as it changes.
How do you access the increase?
You will have the option of electing to borrow the increased living costs amount when this becomes available. But remember, you have to pay it back, so only borrow what you need.
If you choose to receive the maximum amount of living costs each week you may choose to have this adjusted automatically through the Consumers Price index (CPI). You can do this when you apply online or using your MyStudyLink account.
Please note that the increased amount will only be available from 1 April that year.
How have living costs borrowing limits changed?
The following table shows the amount of living costs that can be borrowed and how these have changed as a result of the CPI adjustment.
| From... | To... | You could borrow.... |
| 1 January 1999 | 31 December 2008 | $150 a week |
| 1 January 2009 | 31 March 2009 | $155 a week |
| 1 April 2009 | $160.24 a week |
