Student loans

Learn more about the different loans available to students, including eligibility and how to apply.

You now need a Digital ID to log in to the myHELPbalance portal

The myHELPbalance portal is where you can view your remaining borrowing balance under the combined Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) loan limit. This includes HECS-HELP, FEE-HELP and VET Student Loans.

You now need a Digital ID to log in to the myHELPbalance portal.

The Australian Government’s Digital ID app is called myID. To set up your myID, visit the myID website and follow the instructions.

What is a student loan?

A HELP loan or VET Student Loan (VSL) is a loan from the Australian Government that allows you to defer part or all of the cost of your studies. If you have an approved HELP loan or VSL, your fees will automatically defer to your loan shortly after each census date. You pay back your loan (debt) through the tax system once you earn above the compulsory repayment threshold or you can make voluntary repayments to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) at any time.

Find out more about VET Student Loans and the different HELP loans available to students, including eligibility, how to apply and how to know, track and maintain your loan.

Types of student loans

HECS-HELP

HECS-HELP is a loan from the Australian Government that you can use to pay your student contribution amount when you study in an approved Commonwealth Supported Place. Find out if you’re eligible and how to apply.

VET Student Loan

A VET Student Loan is a loan from the Australian Government that you can use to pay your tuition fees for approved higher-level (diploma and above) vocational education and training (VET) courses. Find out if you're eligible and how to apply.

FEE-HELP

FEE-HELP is a loan from the Australian Government that you can use to pay your tuition fees in a full fee place when you study an approved higher education course. Find out if you're eligible and how to apply.

SA-HELP

SA-HELP is a loan from the Australian Government that you can use to pay your Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF). Find out if you're eligible and how to apply. 

More information

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

Learn more about our commitment to Indigenous cultures