Utilities
how much does uni cost?
Don't let money be an obstacle
Many students may face financial hardships, which can make it difficult to keep up with studies and balance any paid work and family responsibilities. Understanding what's involved can help you plan ahead.
Financially, scholarships can assist students to manage their personal and academic life more smoothly, and some institutions offer access to free or reduced rate support services such as counselling, child-care and study skills advice programs.
Some options
There are part-time and reduced loading (of subjects) options that can allow you to spend more time working or attending to family commitments. The Indigenous Higher Education Unit (IHEU) (sometimes referred to as an Indigenous academic support unit) at your university will assist you with working out the best option for you.
The wider variety of career paths that are open to a graduate are also a good incentive to stick with your goals. Once armed with your degree, jobs that you aspire to and jobs with a secure income will become much more accessible.
Living away from home
Some students will find it difficult living far from home, family and friends, but encountering a new set of friends and living arrangements can be as exciting and rewarding as it is challenging.
There are also distance education courses offered at some universities which allow students to complete a course with minimum attendance at the institution itself, by receiving and submitting educational materials by post or email.
This option may be useful for students who have children or a job which restricts their time substantially or it may be preferable for those who wish to study at home without having to move to another location. Scholarships are also available to help with relocation and travel costs.
Professor Steve Larkin