Exemptions from study for ABSTUDY 010-02080090

Has the student been absent from classes?

• Yes, go to Step 2
• Note: an absence of up to 10 days may be disregarded where it results from a transfer between schools for secondary schooling students.
• No, the student is entitled to ABSTUDY benefits. Procedure ends here

Is the student a secondary school student?

• Yes, go to Step 4
• No, go to Step 3

A tertiary or secondary non schooling student must meet the institution's attendance requirements to maintain ABSTUDY eligibility.

If an institution advises a student's attendance is unsatisfactory, it should be ascertained from what date the institution will cease the student's enrolment in the course. See Payment of ABSTUDY when a student is deferring or discontinuing study before the end of the course.

However, a tertiary or secondary non schooling student can remain entitled to payment for up to eight weeks for a medical condition for which the student supplies a medical certificate.

A tertiary or secondary non schooling student may also receive one additional period of extension if a further medical certificate is provided.

For further details, see Payment of ABSTUDY when a student or Australian Apprentice becomes incapacitated.

Note: where an approved absence extends into an end of year vacation period and the student intends to continue with full time education in the following year, Living Allowance can continue to be paid until the day before commencement of study in the following year. Subsequent year entitlement will be assessed on the student's circumstances in that year.

Procedure ends here.

Is the absence due to a suspension or expulsion from school?

• Yes, go to Step 6
• No, go to Step 5

Is/was the absence caused by circumstances beyond the control of the secondary schooling student and deemed an approved absence by the school?

• Yes, the student is entitled to ABSTUDY benefits. Procedure ends here
• No, go to Step 6

The absence will be regarded as an unapproved absence.

Note: the unapproved absences will be recorded on an attendance check by the school. Area Compliance will be notified of these absences at the end of each term and will undertake an attendance review.

Unapproved absences for secondary school students may incur a breach. For further details, see Determining Activity Test breaches for unapproved absences for ABSTUDY secondary school students.