Student Loans

Higher Education Loan Program (HELP)

The two main types of HELP loans are:

• HECS-HELP: For eligible Commonwealth-supported students to pay their student contribution
• FEE-HELP: For eligible full fee-paying students to pay their tuition fees

To be eligible for a HELP loan, Australian citizens must study at least part of their course in Australia.

Eligibility:

• Australian citizens must complete at least part of their course in Australia to access a HELP loan.
• Permanent visa holders and New Zealand citizens who do not meet residency requirements for HELP loans, or who are not Australian citizens, may receive a Commonwealth-supported place but must pay fees upfront.

To use a HELP loan, you must provide your Tax File Number (TFN) to your higher education provider by the census date.

For more information, visit Study Assist or the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
 

Repaying a HELP loan

If you have a HELP debt, repayments are compulsory through your income tax once your income reaches the minimum repayment threshold.

The repayment amount depends on your annual income. You can also make voluntary repayments directly to the ATO to reduce your HELP debt.

For more information, visit Study Assist, the ATO, or call 13 28 61.

VET Student Loans

VET Student Loans (VSL) help eligible students pay tuition fees for approved diploma-level or higher VET courses.

To access a VSL, students must meet citizenship or residency requirements and satisfy the course’s entry requirements.

For more information, visit the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations website.
 

Unique Student Identifier (USI)

The USI is an individual education identifier that stays with you for life.

Who needs a USI:

• Students seeking financial assistance or starting a Commonwealth Supported Place.
• All higher education students, including onshore international students, to receive their award.

Getting a USI:

• Continuing students are encouraged to get their USI as soon as possible.
  • SATAC will ask for your USI during your application, and you’ll need it to apply for a HELP loan.

You can check if you already have a USI from previous vocational education or training, or apply for one online.