Students must act now to get allowances in time

15 February 2005
For Immediate Release Media Statement

Time is now fast running out for students to apply for Students Allowances without missing out on some payments. “It is essential that students act now”, said Merv Dacre, General Manager of Studylink.

Students must apply for their Student Allowance by the end of the first week of their courses if they do not want to miss out on some payments. Unlike previous years, Student Allowances will not be backdated if students apply late.

On 1 January 2005 parental income limits were raised. As a result, it is expected up to 28,000 more students will receive an allowance for the first time and up to 15,000 more will get a higher allowance.

‘Students don’t even need to have decided where or what they will study when they apply. We can get that information later’ says Mr Dacre.

The easiest way to apply is on line, but students need to be aware that applications may still take more than a week to process.

Students aged between 18 and 24 who intend to start studying a Human or Animal Health degree can apply for a Step Up scholarship. Applications close on 25 February so it is important people apply as soon as possible. More than 250 scholarships will be available*

Students who think they will need a Student Loan can also apply now. However StudyLink urges students to think carefully about how much they borrow.

Mr Dacre says, “If students need a loan then we would like them to only borrow what they need. If they want some advice about ways they can limit their loan borrowing then StudyLink can help. Just give us a ring or call in and see us”.

*Students who are unsure can find out more by contacting StudyLink on 0800 88 99 00 or by visiting Studylink online.Number of scholarships allocated will depend on the value of the scholarships applied for. Some conditions apply.

For further information: Jane Mortlock, Media Advisor, ph 04 916 3496 or      029 231 6197.