Depending on which course you choose, financing your studies can be easy or difficult. Some studies, like apprenticeships, allow you to earn money while learning.
Depending on which course you choose, financing your studies can be easy or difficult. Some studies, like apprenticeships, allow you to earn money while learning.
Others, like many undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, cost money but can be paid after completion through an Australian government loan. Some courses need to be paid upfront. There are many options when it comes to financing your studies in Australia.
Work/study balance
Finding a balance between work and study can be challenging.
Course fees and textbooks can be expensive, so many students choose to study part time. Universities, private colleges and technical and further education institutions (TAFEs) offer part time courses, usually with classes in the evening.
Studying part time means it will take longer to complete a course, but only having half the contact hours allows students to earn enough to support themselves.
Some full time courses require few contact hours, making it viable for students to have a job. While it may be difficult to work a lot during study term or semester, some students find that they are able to work full time during holidays.
Students should be aware that while some courses require very few contact hours, most expect you to put aside some non-contact hours each week.
Overseas students with permission to work are limited to working 20 hours per week while their course is in session, but may work full time during recognised holiday periods.
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Financial support from the government
If your course allows you to accept a Commonwealth supported place, you make a contribution towards the cost of your education, but the Australian government contributes the majority of the cost. You do not have to pay the full amount at once, but need to start paying it back once you are earning a certain amount.
If you are not in a Commonwealth supported place, you are required to pay tuition fees not subsidised by the Australian government. |
If you are an Australian studying full time, you may be eligible for government benefits such as Youth Allowance or Austudy, or ABSTUDY if you are an indigenous Australian.
If you are an overseas student, you can only study in an overseas fee paying place and you have to pay overseas student fees. The Australian government does not offer subsidies for overseas students.
Career training
Some companies will pay for professional training to enhance your career. For example, some restaurants and food chains offer a Certificate III in Hospitality course or a Responsible Service of Alcohol short course.
Many businesses are willing to pay for courses to upgrade their staff’s computer skills and others will offer courses aimed at enhancing administration and business skills.