Studying at university or TAFE comes with challenges. It is a big decision to make in terms of what course to choose, and once accepted it can often be difficult to balance study requirements as well as monetary ones.
However, whether it is monetary support, career advice, or even study hints, there are many organisations available to help students at university.
Financial assistance
The Australian Government does not just provide HECS help or VET-FEE help to pay for your university fees. The government also offers a lot of options for monetary assistance to students in Australia while at university or TAFE.
Perhaps the best known option is Youth Allowance, which is a fortnightly payment offered to students. There are many different rates of payment with youth allowance depending on your income, assets, and your parents' income, but a few examples are listed below.
If you are under 18, single, without children, and living at home, you are entitled to $206.30 per fortnight.
If you are over 18, single, without children, and not living at home, you are entitled to $377 per fortnight.
Keep in mind that there are changes expected to affect Youth Allowance rates in the coming year, and there are many other categories to decide the amount you can receive. If you require more detailed information, simply visit the Centrelink website at www.centrelink.gov.au.
Another means of financial aid is provided through rent assistance, which can be around $100 per fortnight, depending on circumstances. Similarly, for those studying full time over the age of 25, Austudy is available at similar rates to Youth Allowance.
Most universities and TAFE providers will also offer help with a financial advisory service, which can usually be found by searching on their website.
School leavers
If you are a school leaver or tertiary student and you need assistance with deciding on a course, there are many government websites to help you make your decision. Firstly, www.education.gov.au is a good website to use, especially their section on going to university which can assist you with finding the right course. Also, www.year12whatnext.gov.au is a good resource for school leavers looking for advice.
Apprentices and trainees
If you are interested in taking on an apprenticeship, the government funded website www.aajobpathways.com.au is a good place to look. Similarly, the Australian Apprenticeships website is a handy tool for looking at options www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au.
International Students
If you are an international student looking for advice on studying in Australia, www.studyinaustralia.gov.au is the official government website on studying in Australia, while http://cricos.deewr.gov.au/ gives advice on institutions for international students.
Graduate and Postgraduate Students
For graduates of universities and TAFE providers, there is assistance with career advice after university. The Graduate Careers Council of Australia website www.graduatecareers.com.au is a good resource.
Most universities or TAFE providers will also have a career counselor on staff who would be willing to advise you on your career and study path after school. It can be difficult to make big decisions about your future on your own, which is why it is important to know what resources are available to you if you need them. Therefore it is good to know that you have a wide range of government funded bodies who exist just to assist you.