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HECS-HELP Loan: Who Qualifies and What You Get

Learn how this government loan works to cover your tuition costs upfront and how the debt is managed over time.

This scheme provides a way for eligible students to have their tuition fees paid by the government while they study, allowing them to repay the cost later.

Who it's for

This is available to students enrolled in Commonwealth supported courses.

What you get

The government pays your tuition fees upfront so you do not have to pay the full amount out of pocket while you are studying. You only begin to repay the debt once you meet specific income requirements after you finish your studies.

What it costs you

There is no immediate cost to use this scheme, but you must have a Tax File Number (TFN) to be eligible.

The catch to know

Your total debt is indexed every year to keep up with inflation. This means the amount you owe can grow over time even if you are not making repayments.

How to apply

  1. Ensure you are enrolled in a Commonwealth supported course.
  2. Make sure you have a valid Tax File Number.
  3. Complete the application process through your education provider.
  4. Visit the official portal for more details: https://www.studyassist.gov.au/help-loans/hecs-help