If you’re studying a University of Canberra or Federation University degree through TAFE Queensland, you may be eligible for a government subsidy known as a Commonwealth supported place (CSP). As a Commonwealth supported student, the Australian Government will pay part of the fees for your degree directly to your training provider. The amount the government subsidises for you is not a loan and you will not have to pay it back. You will only need to pay the remainder of the fees known as the student contribution amount.
As a Commonwealth supported student you may also be eligible for a HECS-HELP loan to help you pay your student contribution amount. The loan cannot be used for additional study costs such as accommodation, materials, or text books. If you’re approved for a HECS-HELP loan, the Australian Government will pay your course fees. You will then owe a debt to the government for the loan.
To be eligible for HECS‑HELP, you must:
- be studying in a Commonwealth supported place;
- be an Australian citizen; or
- be a New Zealand Special Category Visa holder who meets the long-term residency requirements; or
- be a permanent humanitarian visa holder;
- be enrolled in each unit at your university by the census date;
- meet the relevant HECS-HELP residency requirements;
- read the HECS‑HELP and Commonwealth supported places information booklet; and
- submit a valid Request for Commonwealth support and HECS‑HELP form by the census date (or earlier administrative date) to your university
There is no interest charged on HECS-HELP debts. However it is subject to indexation, which means the loan maintains its real value by adjusting it in line with changes in the cost of living.
Once your income is above the compulsory repayment threshold, you will start to pay back the loan through the Australian taxation system. The threshold is adjusted each year and is currently $54,869 for the 2016-2017 income year. Repayments continue until you have repaid your entire debt. This will impact your take-home pay.
Our customer service team is ready to support you through the application process. You can contact us if you have any questions or need any help with your HECS-HELP application.
Achieve your career goals with the help of a $5,000 TAFE Queensland Scholarship. There are two types available: merit or access and equity. Visit the scholarships website for more information.
