The $1321 Cash Boost, officially known as the Student Start-up Loan, is a government initiative designed to provide financial support to eligible students pursuing higher education in Australia. Offered through Centrelink, this voluntary loan is available twice a year to help cover essential study-related expenses such as textbooks, technology, transport, and supplies. It provides immediate relief to students who may be struggling to keep up with the rising costs of education while managing a limited income.
Who Can Apply for the $1321 Cash Boost in 2025?
To qualify for the Student Start-up Loan in 2025, students must be enrolled full-time in an approved higher education course and receive a Centrelink income support payment such as Youth Allowance, Austudy, or the ABSTUDY Living Allowance. Students must not be receiving a Commonwealth Scholarship for the same study period. The loan is open to eligible individuals who need help managing study costs but also comes with a responsibility to repay once income thresholds are met.
How the Loan Works and Repayment Conditions
While the $1321 Cash Boost can make a big difference in a student’s budget, it’s important to understand that this is a repayable loan, not a grant. Repayments begin once the recipient’s income reaches the annual threshold, which for the 2024–25 year is $51,550. Repayment is processed through the tax system, in a similar fashion to the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP). The loan is indexed each year in line with inflation, and students can choose to make voluntary payments at any time to reduce their balance more quickly.
Steps to Apply for the $1321 Cash Boost
The application process for the Student Start-up Loan is simple and entirely online via a student’s myGov account linked to Centrelink. Students need to log in, navigate to the Centrelink section, and select the Student Start-up Loan under the ‘Payments and Claims’ menu. After checking eligibility, applicants can fill in the required details and submit the form. Once approved, the funds are usually transferred directly into the student’s bank account within a few business days.
Application Windows and Important Dates
The $1321 Centrelink loan is available twice a year, with two application windows: the first from January 1 to June 30, and the second from July 1 to December 31. Students must ensure they apply within these periods to receive the loan for the corresponding study term. Missing the deadline could result in forfeiting the opportunity to access this financial aid for that semester or study period.
Is the $1321 Cash Boost Right for You?
The $1321 Cash Boost is an excellent option for students who need help with upfront education-related costs and are comfortable managing a repayable loan. With straightforward eligibility criteria, a quick online application process, and flexible repayment through the tax system, it offers both accessibility and convenience. However, it is essential to consider your future financial plans before applying, as the loan will need to be repaid once your income increases. For full details and to begin the application, students are encouraged to visit the official Services Australia website.