Budgeting for uni

Why university is more affordable than you think

If your teen is thinking about university, it’s natural to have questions (and concerns) about how they’re going to pay for it all. Between tuition fees, accommodation costs, textbooks, travel, placements and other expenses, the financial side of university can feel overwhelming. And if you’re unfamiliar with how things such as HELP loans, scholarships or student services work, it can be hard to know where to start.

At Griffith, we understand the financial realities many families face. That’s why we offer a wide range of support to help students manage their costs while getting the most out of university life. From scholarships and emergency support to budgeting tools and prac placement assistance, we’re here to help your teen access the education they deserve without unnecessary financial pressure.

Here’s what you need to know about the real costs of university and the many ways Griffith helps our students and their families plan, manage and stay on track.

Understanding fees and application costs

Before your teen even starts uni, there are a few key costs to be aware of, including tuition and application fees.

In Australia, most undergraduate students will study through a Commonwealth supported place (CSP), meaning the government pays a portion of the course cost. The remainder, called the student contribution, varies depending on the study area and how many subjects are taken each trimester.

To help cover this, most students use a HELP loan, which allows them to defer the cost and repay it through the tax system once they’re earning above a set income threshold. You can learn more about HELP loans here.

To apply, your teen will need to submit a preference list through the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC). Be aware there is a standard application fee involved in this process, with additional fees for late changes or new applications.

If your teen needs more preparation before starting a degree, Griffith’s free EmpowerED bridging program is a great way to build confidence and core skills without any tuition or application costs.

Scholarships: over 600 opportunities to reduce your teen’s expenses

One of the best ways to reduce the cost of university is through scholarships. These can help cover tuition, living expenses, placement travel and even the cost of laptops or other study equipment.

With more than 600 on offer each year, scholarships aren’t only for students with the highest marks. Many are designed for students who demonstrate commitment, community involvement, leadership potential or financial hardship. Others are made possible through the generosity of our community, including the more than 15 per cent of Griffith staff who support the Brighter Futures Scholarship program through regular giving. Griffith proudly matches these donations dollar for dollar, helping double the financial support available to students who need it most. There are also scholarships for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, regional and remote students and those in specific study areas.

We recommend encouraging your teen to explore the full range early and apply for anything they might be eligible for, even if they’re not sure they’ll qualify.

Building strong budgeting skills

For many students, uni is their first experience managing a budget. Griffith’s financial foundations resources help students learn how to build a realistic budget, set savings goals, track spending and plan for expenses such as textbooks, transport and groceries. These are life skills that benefit students long after graduation.

As a parent or guardian, you can support your teen by talking through basic costs together, reviewing their estimated weekly expenses or helping them create a shared budget plan for their first few months of study.

Everyday costs and cost-of-living support

Even with tuition covered by a loan, day-to-day living costs can add up quickly, especially for students who move out of home or alter their work hours to focus on study.

To help students stay on top of their budget, Griffith offers a variety of cost-of-living support, including:

• access to financial counsellors
• emergency financial assistance
• grocery and meal relief
• utility bill assistance
• budgeting workshops.

We also have a cost-of-living and study estimator tool that can help your teen (and you) plan ahead by estimating weekly living costs based on lifestyle, location and study plans.

Support during practical placements

Many degrees at Griffith include integrated practical placements or internships, which are essential for gaining real-world experience but can also be a source of financial stress.

Placements can involve travel, accommodation, uniforms and/or time away from work. That’s why we offer dedicated placement support, including financial assistance for students undertaking unpaid or rural placements. Eligible students may also receive the Commonwealth Prac Payment, a government initiative to help cover living costs during placements in teaching, nursing and social work degrees.

Accommodation options for every budget

If your teen is planning to move for university, housing will likely be one of their biggest expenses. Griffith provides support for a range of accommodation options to suit different needs and budgets, so we can help your teen weigh up the best fit for their lifestyle and finances.

Our accommodation service can provide your teen with guidance on, information about and assistance with on-campus student housing as well as homestay arrangements. See our accommodation web page for further details.

Other helpful support options

Alongside Griffith’s own support programs, your teen may also be eligible for a range of external support services:

• No Interest Loans Scheme (NILS): Small, interest-free loans for essential items like laptops, textbooks or transport
• Centrelink payments for higher education: These include Youth Allowance, ABSTUDY and other supports for eligible full-time students
• StudentVIP textbook exchange: A trusted second-hand marketplace to buy or sell textbooks at a lower cost

A smart investment in their future

University is about more than academic knowledge; it’s a place where your teen can grow personally and professionally while discovering their purpose. Although it’s natural to worry about the financial side, Griffith is here to help make the journey more manageable. With access to the right support and advice, your teen can step into university life with confidence, knowing they’re making a smart, long-term investment in their future.