Study Assist

What is a bridging course for overseas-trained professionals?

A bridging course is one that will enable you to meet specific academic or professional requirements for entry to a listed professional occupation in Australia. If you are undertaking a bridging course as an overseas-trained professional then you may access a FEE-HELP loan if you meet the eligibility criteria.

For FEE-HELP purposes, your bridging course must not:

• lead to a higher education award;
• exceed the equivalent of one year of full-time study.

For FEE-HELP purposes, your course is not a bridging course for overseas-trained professionals if it:

• provides a qualification beyond basic entry level to your profession;
• leads to a higher education award, such as a postgraduate degree;
• provides training for an occupation that is not a listed occupation; or
• is a general English language training course.

Am I eligible for FEE-HELP for my bridging course?

In addition to the above criteria, students must also hold an assessment statement issued by an assessing body for the professional occupations listed at Appendix A of the FEE-HELP information for 2012 booklet.

Tuition fees for bridging courses for an overseas-trained professional are set by individual higher education providers. As an overseas-trained professional you may be eligible for a FEE-HELP loan to help you pay your tuition fees if:

• you are enrolled in a bridging course for overseas-trained professionals course with an eligible provider;
• your course meets the FEE-HELP eligibility criteria for bridging courses;
• you are an Australian citizen or you have a permanent visa; and
• you will reside in Australia for the duration of your course.

How do I apply for a FEE-HELP loan?

To apply for FEE-HELP, you will need to get a Request for FEE-HELP assistance form from your higher education provider.