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Get sorted for study
We're StudyLink and we can get you sorted financially for study with a Student Allowance and Student Loan.
Making decisions, like planning on studying after you finish school, can be overwhelming.
Start thinking now about what your study will cost and how to pay for it.
How StudyLink can help
There are a number of ways we can help pay for your study. Student Allowance and Student Loan are the main payments you can get to help you pay for your study.
Student Allowance
A weekly payment to help pay your living expenses while you're studying. You don't have to pay it back.
If you're under 24, it also depends on your parents' income.
Student Loan
A loan (you do need to pay it back) to help pay for course fees, course-related costs and living costs.
What is a Student Loan vs Student Allowanance?
View transcript of 'Student Allowance vs Student Loan' video
Use our eligibility test
Check if you can get a Student Allowance or Student Loan through our StudyLink eligibility test.
Still at school?
It's best to apply early, as it takes a bit of time to get your loan or allowance sorted.
The best time to apply is before 16 December. Most people start applying in term 3 and term 4.
You don't need to wait until you get your NCEA results. You can even apply if you haven't decided where you want to study yet, or you're waiting on confirmation of your course.
Find out more about how to apply online if you're a first time student.