Do I need to apply to StudyLink to access Fees Free?

No. You don’t need to apply to Studylink to access Fees Free. You can confirm your eligibility for Fees Free by entering your National Student Number (NSN) on the Fees Free home page.

If your eligibility status is 'Yes’, you won’t need a student loan for your compulsory fees. Your fees will be paid directly to your tertiary education organisation by the Tertiary Education Commission.

However, if you’re undertaking provider-based study, you still need to apply to StudyLink if you wish to access the student allowance or the loan for living costs, or if you need a loan for course-related costs that are not covered by Fees Free.

If your fees are more than $12,000 (including GST) you may also need to apply to StudyLink for a student loan to cover what’s not covered by Fees Free.

Note: if you’re undertaking work-based learning, you’re not eligible for a Student Allowance or Student Loan.

If you’re not eligible for Fees Free, you won’t be able to access Fees Free tertiary study or training. You may be eligible for financial support through a Student Loan. For more information go to the StudyLink website.

Unsure of some of these terms? Check out our glossary.