VET FEE-HELP – new student loan scheme

As of 1 July 2009, VET FEE-HELP, a scheme similar to the FEE-HELP loan scheme currently available to Higher Education students, has been made available to assist eligible full-fee paying TAFE students enrolling in Diploma and Advanced Diploma programs.

EGTAFE has been approved to offer VET FEE-HELP assistance to eligible students enrolled in these programs by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) until 26 October 2009. EGTAFE’s ability to offer VET FEE-HELP beyond this date is subject to final parliamentary approval on 26 October 2009.

VET FEE-HELP assists eligible students to pay for all or part of their tuition fees when studying one or more of the follow VET accredited courses:

• Diploma
• Advanced diploma

Information on VET FEE-HELP has been provided by the Australian Department of Education Employment and Workplace Relations and they includes:

• Student Information Guide
• Frequently Asked Questions

VET FEE-HELP at a glance …

The advantages of VET FEE-HELP is that you can pay for your tuition fees upfront and you will only be required to pay back your tuition fee when you commence working and earning more than $43,000 per annum. 

VET FEE HELP is an income contingent loan (like HECS or HELP) which means that it is re-payed via the Taxation system once your annual salary reaches the set amount.

Applications for VET FEE-HELP is not means tested.

How to apply for VET FEE-HELP

• Complete a ‘Request for VET FEE-HELP Form’ – with an EG TAFE Staff member
• Supply the required ID (one of the items listed below)
• An EG TAFE staff member will advise you of the status of your application and lodge your application on your behalf.

Types of Evidence for ID purposes for VET FEE-HELP

• Full Birth Certificate
• Passport – Australian or New Zealand with valid “Entry to Australia” stamp
• Residency papers
• Permanent Visa
• Drivers Licence
• Proof of Age card
• Student Card
• Any Government Agency card / papers that includes DoB
• Support documentation from a medical practitioner
• Centrelink confirmation

Students wishing to access VET FEE-HELP assistance are invited to discuss their eligibility with our Student Services call 1300 133 717.