Student Start-up Loan Application

Issuing authority

Services Australia (Centrelink)

Official source

How to apply

1. Check eligibility: you must currently be receiving Youth Allowance (as a student), Austudy, or ABSTUDY Living Allowance — the loan option only appears in your Centrelink online account if you are eligible.
2. Create a myGov account at my.gov.au if you do not have one, and link your Centrelink account.
3. Log in to myGov and open your Centrelink online account.
4. Select 'Payments and Claims' from the menu, then select 'Apply for/Manage Student Start-up Loan'.
5. Confirm your study details are current and accurate (your RTO or university enrolment must be recorded with Centrelink).
6. Submit the application online — no paper form is required; the process is entirely digital through myGov/Centrelink.
7. The loan ($1,349 for 2026) is paid as a lump sum directly to your bank account on record with Centrelink, typically within a few business days.
8. The loan is repaid through the tax system via the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) once your income exceeds the repayment threshold, similar to HECS-HELP — repayment is automatic via your tax return.

Related topics

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