APPLICATIONS for the $200 back-to-school assistance for students are currently being processed, says Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad.

Yesterday Prof Prasad confirmed most of the applications have been processed.

“The applications are being processed,” he said. “I am told that most of it is done.

“As you know, we extended the timeline for the applications because we wanted as many school children who are eligible for the grant, for the $200 assistance, to be able to apply.

“And as you know, the criteria is a household income of less than $50,000.”

Prof Prasad said inclusive of this year, the Coalition Government would have provided assistance to about 200,000 students a year at a cost of $130million.

“More than 200,000 students were assisted in 2023, more than 200,000 were assisted at the beginning of 2024 and more than 200,000 students would benefit at the beginning of 2025.

“This has been very effective. The timeliness of the assistance is very important.

“Coming out of Christmas, New Year, the children need new books, new bags, shoes, sandals, and it’s a sure way of assisting parents to be able to help their kids get back to school ready and prepared with all the necessary equipment.”