Starting study: the basics - Study Assist, Australian Government

Getting ready to start higher education study can raise lots of questions and options to consider.

Starting study: the basics provides key information about higher education study in Australia and will help you understand important study dates, new concepts and terminology.

Starting or continuing study

Higher education: overview

Understand how higher education in Australia works.

Getting into higher education

Discover the pathways available to access higher education.

Postgraduate and returning to study

What to consider when returning to study.

Courses and providers

Compare courses

What you need to consider when choosing a course.

Providers offering Commonwealth assistance

Know which providers offer Commonwealth assistance to study.

Important basics

Your USI / CHESSN

Learn about unique reference numbers required for Commonwealth assistance.

Your tax file number (TFN)

Understand the importance of having a TFN to access Commonwealth assistance.

Key dates and terminology

Know key dates and terms used in higher education.

Indexation and loan increases

Understand what indexation is.