13.4.2.2 Date of Effect Rules – student reapplying for benefits after a break in study
A student may reapply for benefits after a break in study. This should be treated as a new claim for assistance, with a new claim form required. For the purposes of determining such claims, the date of commencement is calculated in accordance with paragraph 2.4 of the Instruments, being the later of:
the first payday after the student meets the eligibility requirements of the Schemes; or
the first payday in January of the calendar year in which the claim is made.
A student reapplying after a break in study may have been accepted into a course of study some months prior to actually commencing full-time education. To ensure consistency in processing claims for students reapplying for benefits, a student is considered to be "undertaking" full-time study from the date they actually recommence their studies. The date they commence study is the date when the student meets the eligibility requirements for payment under subparagraph 2.4.1(c) of the Instruments.
The date that payment will recommence and reasons for the date must be included in the decision letter (see section 13.1.4 Decision Making).