OS-HELP
What is OS-HELP?
OS-HELP is a Commonwealth loan that assists eligible students to undertake some of their study overseas. Students may receive up to $5,299 (in 2008) per six month study period for one or two overseas study periods, to assistant with a range of expenses such as airfares and accommodation. A minimum of $1000 applies.
How does OS-HELP operate?
Students will not be eligible to apply for a loan until they have successfully completed the first year of their course and the loan will not cover overseas study undertaken during a final year of a course. The other main criteria are that a student must be
- an Australian citizen or the holder of a permanent humanitarian visa;
- a Commonwealth supported student enrolled in an undergraduate course of study at an Australian public higher education provider, and;
- selected by their Australian higher education provider to receive an OS-HELP loan.
OS-HELP loans will attract a 20 per cent loan fee. OS-HELP debts are added into other higher education debts that a student might have (such as their HECS debt) and repaid in the same way as other HELP debts.
How do I apply?
You need to complete the application form available below and lodge it along with the required documentation before the end of October for proposed study periods in the first six months of the following year, or before the end of April for proposed study periods in the second six months in the current year. Applications after these deadlines will only be considered if there are loans still available. You will need to include detailed information about the studies you wish to undertake overseas.
You should consult the OS-HELP policy document before submitting the application form.
When will I know if my application is successful?
OS-HELP applicants will be advised the outcome of their application in writing within eight weeks of a completed application. Successful applicants will be required to complete an OS-HELP Debt Confirmation Form within two weeks of their offer of OS-HELP Assistance.
How can I find out more about OS-HELP?
Broad information is available through the Government Goingtouni website at http://www.goingtouni.gov.au/Main/Quickfind/StudyOverseas/OSHELP.htm or phone the Student Centre on 1300 361 928.
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