The Australian Government continues to support students and families through a range of financial assistance programs, and one of the most important for low-income households is the Education Entry Payment. In 2025, eligible recipients can receive a one-off payment of $208 to help cover education-related costs. This initiative is designed to reduce the financial burden for people returning to study or training, especially those who rely on Centrelink benefits.
What Is the Education Entry Payment?
The Education Entry Payment is a lump sum provided to help eligible individuals with costs associated with starting an approved course or training program. This can include expenses such as textbooks, course materials, stationery, and other study-related items. Unlike ongoing payments, it is paid once per qualifying period and is not taxable.
Eligibility Criteria in 2025
To qualify for the $208 Education Entry Payment in 2025, you must meet certain requirements set by Services Australia. Generally, you need to be receiving an eligible Centrelink payment and be enrolled in an approved course or training program.
Common payments that may make you eligible include:
- Pensioner Education Supplement
- Youth Allowance
- Austudy
- ABSTUDY
- JobSeeker Payment
- Parenting Payment
- Disability Support Pension (with study)
You must also start or continue in full-time study, or in some cases part-time study if you have an approved reason.
Payment Amount and Schedule
The payment amount for 2025 remains at $208, unchanged from the previous year. Payments are made directly into your nominated bank account, typically within days of your eligibility being confirmed.
| Payment Type | Amount (2025) | Payment Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Education Entry Payment | $208 | One-off per course start |
| Pensioner Education Supplement (if eligible) | $44.90 (fortnightly) | Fortnightly |
Note: The Education Entry Payment is separate from the Pensioner Education Supplement, but you may receive both if eligible.
How to Claim the Payment
In most cases, you do not need to apply separately for the Education Entry Payment. If you qualify, Services Australia will automatically assess your eligibility and process the payment. However, you must ensure your study details are updated in your myGov account and that you have provided the correct enrolment information.
If your circumstances change or you think you are eligible but have not received the payment, you should contact Centrelink or update your study details through the Express Plus Centrelink app.
Final Thoughts
The $208 Education Entry Payment in 2025 is a valuable boost for students and trainees starting a new course. By covering some of the upfront costs of study, the government aims to make education more accessible to people from low-income backgrounds. If you are starting or returning to study this year, checking your eligibility could mean extra support right when you need it most.