Student Allowance
Updated 2026 MSD rates. Student Allowance is a weekly payment from StudyLink (part of MSD) to help with living costs while you study full-time at a tertiary institution in New Zealand. It is not a loan — you do not have to pay it back.
Who Can Get It
To qualify for Student Allowance, you must:
- Be a New Zealand citizen (or permanent resident who has lived in NZ for at least 3 years).
- Be studying full-time at an approved tertiary provider (university, polytechnic, wānanga, or private training establishment).
- Meet the age and income criteria (under 65, and your personal or parental income must be under the threshold).
- Not be getting another main benefit (except in limited circumstances).
Weekly Rates (2026)
| Situation | Living Costs (weekly) | Accommodation Benefit (max) |
|---|---|---|
| Single 18+, living at home | $253.42 | Up to $60.00 |
| Single 18+, away from home | $354.42 | Up to $80.00 (Area 1), varies |
| Single 24+, away from home | $414.82 | Up to $80.00 (Area 1), varies |
| Partnered, each person | $289.81 | N/A (accommodation based on couple) |
| Couple with children | $506.00 (total) | Up to $80.00 per week |
Accommodation Benefit
Students who pay rent, board, or a mortgage can apply for the Accommodation Benefit on top of their Student Allowance living costs. The maximum depends on your area and living situation:
- Area 1 (Central Auckland, inner Wellington, Queenstown): Up to $80/week for single students away from home.
- Area 2 (Rest of Auckland, Wellington, main cities): Up to $60/week.
- Area 3 & 4 (Smaller towns, rural): Up to $40/week.
You cannot get both the Student Allowance Accommodation Benefit and the Work and Income Accommodation Supplement at the same time.
Parental Income Test
If you are under 24 and do not have dependent children, your parents' income is taken into account. If their combined income is over the threshold, your Student Allowance may be reduced or you may not qualify.
- Threshold: Combined parental income under $119,096 gross per year for a single student living away from home.
- Abatement rates apply above the threshold.
Students aged 24 and over are assessed on their own income only (no parental income test).
How to Apply
- Apply through MyStudyLink (online or phone).
- Provide your personal details and proof of enrolment.
- If under 24, provide parental income details.
- Applications open several months before the study year begins.
Student Loan Living Costs
If you do not qualify for Student Allowance (or want extra support), you can apply for Student Loan Living Costs — up to $264.96 per week. Unlike Student Allowance, this is a loan that must be repaid.