Student responsibilities (US Direct Loans)

Understand your responsibilities when studying at Melbourne with a US Direct Loan.

Cost of living

The cost of living and study in Melbourne may be higher than in the United States, so we strongly advise that you do some research on housing options and living costs.

Pay close attention to the tuition fees outlined in your letter of offer, and plan a budget. Most students live on a very limited income while they are studying, as their capacity to earn money is reduced by study requirements and visa conditions.

On arrival

When you arrive in Melbourne, you will need to pay various costs in advance (sometimes for up to 4 weeks), such as:

  • Rent, bond and letting fees
  • Utilities costs (e.g. telephone, electricity and gas)
  • Books and materials for your course.

You will need to have access to sufficient funds to cover these initial costs, as your first loan disbursement will not take place until after you commence your studies.

It is your responsibility to know the facts about funding your studies, including what you are going to be required to pay, and when you are required to repay any loans.

During your studies

In order to remain eligible for Direct Loan funds, you agree to take on certain responsibilities as a condition of your loan(s).

These responsibilities can be found on the University of Melbourne Direct Loan Application form, and include:

Changes to your loan

Your loan disbursements will cease, or you may be required to return funds, if:

Exit counselling and repayments

The debt levels of each student reflect individual choices and knowledge about the usage of the loan program options. We are committed to ensuring that students leave the University with the lowest amount of debt possible, and we will actively work with you to ensure this.

When your enrolment drops below half-time or ceases, you must complete online Direct Loan exit counselling.

You will have a six month grace period before you are required to begin repayment of your Subsidised, Unsubsidised and Graduate PLUS loans. There is no grace period for Parent PLUS loans. You must repay your loans. Harsh penalties can apply for defaulting on loan payments.

For further information on repayments, sample loan repayment schedules, forbearance, or consolidation of your loans refer to the Guide to repaying your Federal Student Loans.

Need help?

  • For further details on available financial assistance programs, contact the relevant government agency in your home country.
  • For information on how these programs work at the University of Melbourne, contact our International Financial Aid team.

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