Commonwealth support for your place and HECS-HELP Overview HECS-HELP   Overview If you study in a Commonwealth supported place: the Commonwealth contributes to the cost of your units of study you pay a student contribution amount towards the cost of your units of study, and  you may be eligible for HECS-HELP assistance to pay your student contribution. This section has been designed to assist you in understanding the eligibility requirements for being a Commonwealth supported student, the student contribution requirements, the payment options available to you and the process for applying for HECS-HELP assistance. HECS-HELP loan HECS-HELP loans are available to eligible students enrolled in Commonwealth supported places. A HECS-HELP loan will cover all or part of the student contribution amount. If you receive a HECS-HELP loan, the Australian Government pays the loan amount directly to your higher education provider on your behalf and your HECS-HELP debt is recorded with the Tax Office. There are no loan fees charged on HECS-HELP loans. Return to the Top of the page