OS-HELP Loan: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to access a loan to cover your travel and study costs if you are studying part of your degree overseas.
The OS-HELP loan is a financial arrangement designed to assist students who choose to complete part of their academic degree while living and studying in another country.
Who it's for
This scheme is specifically for students who are currently enrolled in a degree program and intend to undertake a portion of that study overseas. It is intended to support those who are pursuing their academic goals in an international setting rather than staying in Australia for the duration of their course.
What you get
The benefit is a loan provided to help manage the financial burden of being abroad. This money is intended to cover the essential costs of an international study period, specifically focusing on your travel expenses and the various costs associated with studying in a different country.
What it costs you
While this provides immediate funding for your travels and studies, it is not a grant. The amount you borrow will be added to your existing total HELP debt. This means the cost will be managed through your long-term student debt obligations.
The catch to know
The most important requirement to remember is your status as a student. You must be a Commonwealth-supported student to be eligible to apply for this specific loan. If you do not hold this specific student status, you will not be able to access these funds.
How to apply
- Verify that you are a Commonwealth-supported student through your institution.
- Confirm that your specific degree program allows for part of the study to be completed overseas.
- Check the specific travel and study cost requirements for your intended location.
- Complete the application process through the official government portal.