Students aged 16-23 years

A student's age and whether the student has a partner and/or supported child(ren), determines what other criteria need to be met (for example parents' income, partner's income) and what rate of Student Allowance (if any) the student will be paid.

The parental income test applies to students aged 16-23 years, unless they have a supported child(ren) or have been granted an Independent Circumstances Allowance.

A tertiary student aged 16 or 17 years can qualify for a Student Allowance if the student meets the standard Student Allowance eligibility criteria and:

• has a supported child or
• qualifies for Independent Circumstances Allowance or
• has completed year 13 or attained at level 3 NCEA, 42 credits or more

For more information see:

• Students who are independent of their parents

Note parents of 16 or 17 year old students may be eligible to get an Away from Home Allowance for their child's accommodation costs.

Also see:

• Away from Home Allowance