Managing expenses
Budget planner
The best method of assessing your financial needs is to have a budget. A budget planner will help you prepare for the coming year. You can ensure that you don't run out of money for those important things that you need to pay for during the year.
The MoneySmart online budget planner gives you an overall picture of your money; where it is coming from (e.g. Centrelink, Job, parents, savings) and how you are spending it (e.g. text books, mobile phone, transport, with friends).
Costs to keep in mind
Costs associated with Uni don't just involve fees! You should consider living expenses, books, transport, technology and more. Careful budget planning is important for uni students. Deakin Financial Support can provide advice.
Buying a computer and technology equipment
One of the expenses many students face at commencement of University studies is the purchase of a computer and related technologies. Deakin University works in an online environment and all students are required to have computer access. We provide on site technology laboratories for students to use.
If you are looking to buy technology equipment shop around and keep an eye out for specials and sale items. To assist you with buying the right package details of recommended computer standards for Deakin students are available. Software and applications are available from the Deakin Software Library.
There are a number of not for profit companies who sell refurbished PC's from government and business organisations to students. For example, Green PC's have recycled personal computers that are refurbished and repackaged into usable, Internet-ready computers, and then made available to low-income communities, individuals and community organisations. The only qualification for an individual or family to have access to a Green PC computer is that they be holders of a current Health Care Card or are able to verify low income status in some other way.
Financial preparation for placement/practicum
As part of your course you may be required to undertake a placement or participate in experiential learning. There can be additional costs associated with this and it is good to be prepared. If your course has a placement component you should consider:
- where the placement will be and whether you will need to pay for accommodation and living expenses
- whether additional travel expenses will be involved
- if you have the right clothes (you want to be making the right impression) and if you will need to buy appropriate clothing
- whether you will need your own specialised equipment
- additional child care – if you normally pay for child care for 3 days and placement is 5 then you will need additional arrangements.
Finding out at the beginning of the year if you will be facing these expenses allows you to budget and plan your purchases without having to borrow. For tips on budgeting, contact the Financial Support team.
Deakin University Library fines
The library has a process for overdue items and penalties. For further information and tips to avoid overdue items, penalties and encumbrances see 'borrowing information for students'.
If you are unable to meet a fee payment, you are encouraged, in the first instance, to contact the Customer Service team. The Customer Service team is able to answer your queries in relation to fees and charges and can assist you to identify the steps you need to take.
Government Assistance
The Government site Study Assist is a source for prospective and continuing higher education students. There is information about the Higher Education Loan Schemes such as HECS-HELP, FEE-HELP, SA-HELP, OS-HELP, scholarships and other essential information to assist in making decisions about higher education in Australia.
- Study Assist - Commonwealth HELP schemes
Study Assist - Information for international students
University fees and costs
To find everything about tuition fees and other fees and charges associated with studying, refer to the Fees website.