There are three major areas to consider when working out how much it costs to go to uni.
1. Course fees
The fees for the course will depend on which course it is, which university you choose, and which subjects you do. These fees may change from year to year, so it is very important that you check with the individual university. You can check with the prospective students’ office, admissions office or student administration to make sure you have correct, up-to-date information.
Eligible students can choose to apply for a combination of two types of fee enrolment:
- Commonwealth supported places (CSPs). CSPs mean that you pay a contribution towards your study while the government subsidises the rest. The university you attend will decide how much of a contribution students are expected to pay, but the government restricts how much they can ask you to contribute. You do not have to pay this upfront; instead, you can defer all or some of your CSP payment until after you’ve finished studying. See How can I pay for uni?
- Fee-paying place. Under this scheme you pay the full cost of your course but you can get a loan through the government which, again, you can pay off once you have a job. See How can I pay for uni?
2. Course-related costs
These depend on which course you’re doing and include things such as books, stationery, computer, photocopying, field trips and materials required to undertake the course. For example, a lab coat if you’re doing science or art materials for a graphic design course.
3. Living costs
How much money you need depends on whether you stay with your family or move out of home to attend uni. Do you know how much it costs your family to feed, clothe, house and entertain you? Don’t forget to take these things into account when budgeting for uni.
Unless distance makes travel each day impossible, most students live at home while going to uni, especially for the first couple of years while they establish themselves. Universities provide information about the average cost of living. You should ask the student financial aid section of the university for this information, as costs vary. Find out how much you’ll actually need to pay up front, how much you can defer until you get a job, and how much the ongoing living expenses are.