When to claim

You can claim Youth Allowance for students or Australian Apprentices up to 13 weeks before you start your course or apprenticeship.

You can claim Youth Allowance up to 13 weeks before you start if you're either:

  • planning to study full time
  • are doing a full time Australian Apprenticeship.

If you want to claim as independent because you’re turning 22, you can submit your claim up to 13 weeks before your birthday. If you claim early, you can be considered independent as soon as you turn 22.

Page last updated: 3 March 2022.
QC 45621