University costs made simple

Worried about how you’ll pay for university? You’re not alone.

The good news is there are flexible payment options, financial support, and people who can help, so money doesn’t get in the way of your goals.

Step 1: Understand how you can pay

You’ve got a few ways to cover your fees. Choose what works best for you:

  • Pay upfront
    Pay your fees through myHub using BPAY, credit card or bank transfer. It’s quick, easy and all online.
  • Use a government loan
    Eligible domestic students can use FEE-HELP, a government loan you repay later through tax, not while you’re studying.

Just submit your eCAF form in myHub before census date.

Quick tip

Always double-check your enrolment before census date so everything is locked in.

Step 2: Know what your student fees support

Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF) helps fund the services and experiences that support student life, including:

  • Mental health and wellbeing services
  • Careers advice and academic support
  • Sports, clubs, societies and campus events

If you’re eligible, you can also defer this fee using SA-HELP.

Good to know

Students help decide how this money is used through UNSA and student surveys.

Step 3: Look for extra financial support

University isn’t just for straight-A students. There are scholarships to support:

  • Academic achievement
  • Equity and access
  • Indigenous students
  • Regional and remote students
  • Accommodation and living costs

Explore University scholarships and financial support.

More help

You may also be eligible for Centrelink support, including Youth Allowance, Austudy, ABSTUDY, Rent Assistance and student start-up loans. Use the Centrelink Payment Finder to see what you could qualify for.

Step 4: Plan for the full cost of university

Along with course fees, it’s worth budgeting for:

  • Textbooks and study materials
  • Rent and general living costs
  • Transport to and from campus
  • Course-specific costs (like labs or field trips)
  • Admin costs (ID replacements, transcripts, graduation documents)

Small costs can add up, planning ahead makes a big difference.

Learn more about additional study costs.

Tip

Create a simple weekly budget before classes start. Knowing what’s coming in and going out can help you feel more prepared and avoid financial stress later in the semester.

Step 5: Money tips that’ll save you stress

  • Keep your enrolment details up to date in myHub
  • Finalise payments before census date
  • Add key dates to your phone calendar
  • Ask questions early, it always helps
Tip

Setting reminders for important dates and checking your student account regularly can help you avoid last-minute surprises.

Final reminder: Support is available

If money worries come up, you don’t have to handle them alone. You can speak to a Financial Wellbeing Advisor to help you understand your options and stay on track.

Your university journey should feel achievable, supported and right for you, and we’re here to help make that happen.