The individual study allowance is intended for students at vocational colleges, universities of applied sciences and universities who are able to work alongside their studies but are unable to earn the minimum wage. This group of young people find it difficult to combine their studies with a part-time job. The individual study allowance is intended to prevent this group from having to borrow more or incur higher study costs.
Until 2015, the study allowance was regulated in the Wajong (Disability Act for Young People) and could be applied for at the UWV (Employee Insurance Agency). Now you can apply for the study allowance at your local council.
Who is responsible for the individual study allowance?
The study allowance is part of the Participation Act (Art. 36b). This states that the local authority helps people who have difficulty finding work. The individual study allowance is part of this Act. The local authority is therefore responsible for the study allowance.
What are the requirements to be eligible for the study allowance?
- You are at least 18 years old
- You are studying at an MBO, HBO or university and are entitled to student finance
- You are unable to earn the statutory minimum wage by continuing to work
How can I apply for the individual study allowance?
This varies per local authority. It is best to search for “individual study allowance” on your local authority’s website. It also helps to contact your local authority yourself; the telephone number or email address can be found on your local authority’s website. Have you been studying for a while, but are you eligible? Then you can also apply for this study allowance retroactively.
Do you need help applying for the individual study allowance? Please contact the LSVb via lsvb@lsvb.nl.