The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to relevant legislation/policy. The information is accurate as at the date listed at the bottom of the page, but may be subject to change. To discuss individual circumstances please contact Services Australia.

1.1.C.290 Concessional study-load student (Austudy, PES, YA)

Definition

For the purposes of Austudy and PES, a concessional study-load student is a person who:

  • is enrolled (1.1.E.110) in, or intends to enrol in, an approved course (1.1.A.210), and
  • is undertaking at least 66% or 25% of the normal amount of full-time study (1.1.F.230).

In the case of a person who intends enrolling they must intend to undertake at least 66% or 25% of the normal amount of full-time study.

It may be possible for a student's minimum required study-load to be reduced to two-thirds (66%) of the normal full-time study-load if it is not possible to study 75% of the full-time load because of:

  • the institution's normal requirements for the course
  • a specific direction in writing from the academic registrar or equivalent officer, OR
  • a recommendation in writing from the academic registrar or equivalent officer for academic or vocational reasons. This reason may only be applied for the maximum of half an academic year.

Example: Timetable clashes, subject prerequisites not satisfied because of failure or other reasons, subject cancelled or over-enrolled, or reduced study-load needed to complete the course.

YA students are ONLY eligible for the 66% concessional study-load.

25% students

The rules regarding which students can qualify under a 25% concessional study-load, differ between Austudy and PES. The rules are explained in the respective payments in Part 3 of the SS Guide. The 25% concessional study-load does not apply to YA recipients.

Act reference: SSAct section 569D Concessional study-load students, section 1061PE Concessional study-load students, section 541B(2) Meaning of normal amount of full-time study

Policy reference: SS Guide 3.3.4.40 Austudy & students with disabilities, 3.8.3.40 PES concessional study-load students

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