Most eligible Cairnmillar students who are enrolled in a full fee-paying place may use a FEE-HELP loan to defer their tuition fees. FEE-HELP is a loan under the Australian Government’s Higher Education Loan Program (HELP) that is available to eligible students enrolled in full fee-paying places.
HECS-HELP is different from FEE-HELP. HECS-HELP is available to eligible students who are enrolled in a Commonwealth supported place (CSP) and is used to pay the student’s contribution amount. A CSP is a subsidised place where the Australian Government pays part of the cost of the student’s study.
In summary:
- HECS-HELP – for eligible students enrolled in a Commonwealth supported place (CSP). It covers the student’s contribution amount.
- FEE-HELP – for eligible students enrolled in a full fee-paying place. It can be used to pay all or part of their tuition fees.
Most CSPs are available for undergraduate study, although some providers offer CSPs for selected postgraduate coursework courses. CSPs are not available for higher degrees by research. Whether a CSP is available depends on the provider and course.
Many Australians use the term “HECS” colloquially when referring to HELP loans generally. However, HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP are different types of HELP loans, and the type of loan available depends on whether the student is enrolled in a CSP or a full fee-paying place.
See also: Does Cairnmillar offer CSPs?
For more information about the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP), including HECS-HELP and FEE-HELP, visit Study Assist.
Updated: 18/09/2026