To support students with education-related expenses, the Australian Government has officially announced the continuation of the Student Start-up Loan (SSL), providing a $1,321 cash boost per term, available twice a year.
This financial assistance aims to reduce the burden of living, travel, and study costs for full-time students receiving eligible Centrelink payments.
Whether you’re currently studying or planning to enroll in 2025, here’s everything you need to know about the $1,321 student payment, including eligibility, application steps, and payment dates.
What Is the $1,321 Cash Boost?
The Student Start-up Loan (SSL) is a government-provided loan for eligible students who receive income support from Centrelink. It is designed to help with education-related costs such as:
- Study materials
- Transport
- Living expenses
The loan is interest-free and becomes repayable only after your income surpasses a threshold of $51,550 per year, as monitored by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
Official Program Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Name | Student Start-up Loan (SSL) |
| Payment Amount | $1,321 per loan period (twice yearly, up to $2,642/year) |
| Loan Type | Interest-free, income-contingent repayment loan |
| Repayment Threshold | Annual income above $51,550 |
| Administered By | Services Australia via Centrelink |
| Application Platform | myGov account linked to Centrelink |
| Payment Method | Direct bank deposit upon approval |
Who Is Eligible for the $1,321 Cash Boost?
To qualify for the SSL in 2025, students must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Be a full-time student at an approved Australian university or institution
- Be receiving eligible Centrelink payments, such as:
- Youth Allowance (for full-time students or apprentices)
- Austudy (for full-time students aged 25 or older)
- ABSTUDY Living Allowance (for Indigenous students)
- Not currently receiving a Commonwealth Scholarship
- Be an Australian resident for social security purposes
Application Process – How to Claim the $1,321 Cash Boost
You can apply through your myGov account, provided it is linked to Centrelink. Here are the steps:
- Log in to your myGov account
- Select Centrelink > Payments and Claims
- Choose “Apply for a Student Start-up Loan”
- Complete the online form, entering your educational details and current expenses
- Submit your application and wait for review
- If approved, the $1,321 will be deposited directly into your bank account
- A repayment plan will begin only when your income exceeds $51,550
Payment Dates for 2025
The SSL is paid in two distinct loan periods:
| Loan Period | Application Window | Payment Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Term 1 | January 1 – June 30, 2025 | Upon approval within your Centrelink cycle |
| Term 2 | July 1 – December 31, 2025 | Upon approval within your Centrelink cycle |
To ensure timely payment, apply within the loan period and confirm all Centrelink details are accurate.
Things to Consider Before Applying
Although beneficial, students should be aware that the SSL is a repayable loan, not a grant. Consider:
- Budgeting carefully to ensure you actually need the funds
- Other aid options, such as scholarships or grants that do not require repayment
- The long-term impact on post-graduation finances
The $1,321 Student Start-up Loan provides a helpful financial boost for Australian students navigating the high cost of education in 2025.
With applications now open for both terms, qualifying students should take the opportunity to apply via myGov, stay updated through Centrelink, and ensure they fully understand the repayment terms before accepting the funds.
This support program is a practical solution to ease educational expenses—just make sure it fits your long-term financial goals.
FAQs
Is the $1,321 payment a grant or a loan?
It is a loan, not a grant. You must repay it once your income exceeds the annual threshold of $51,550.
How often can I receive the payment?
Eligible students can receive up to two payments per year, totaling $2,642 annually.
What if I decide not to take the loan?
You can opt not to apply, even if you are eligible. Taking the loan is entirely voluntary.