Exceptional circumstances fee extensions

We recognise that some students may experience difficulties paying their fees due to exceptional circumstances. 

Students who meet the eligibility criteria can apply for an exceptional circumstances fee extension.

Applying for an exceptional circumstances fee extension does not guarantee that an extension will be approved. Please read the information on this page before starting an application.

If your application is not approved, you will need to pay your fees by the due date.

Eligibility for an exceptional circumstances fee extension

The following students are eligible to apply for an exceptional circumstances fee extension:

  • Domestic VET students (certificates 1–4, diplomas and advanced diplomas) who cannot defer fees via a VET Student Loan.
  • International higher education/VET students on a student visa (subclass 500).

Student visa holders (subclass 500) are not eligible for an exceptional circumstances fee extension if they:

  • have not paid for their first 4 units of their course
  • are sponsored by an employer or Government
  • have overdue outstanding fees
  • are enrolled in a summer or winter unit
  • have been granted an overload of studies
  • are studying a non-award or cross-institutional unit.

Exceptional circumstances, for the purpose of a fee extension, are defined as:

  • exceptional in nature
  • unforeseen
  • outside your control
  • occurred on or when your fees were due.

Apply for an exceptional circumstances fee extension

  1. Complete the exceptional circumstances fee extension (A49c) application form, including the budget/expenditure sheet on page 4.
  2. Write a personal statement that describes your exceptional circumstances, including details of the date you can pay your fees in full.
  3. Obtain the required documentation (see examples of accepted supporting documentation in "Section 4 Reason for Fee Extension" on page 2).
  4. Phone +61 3 9919 5400 to book an appointment with Student Welfare at least 5 working days before the due date shown on your Statement of Account.
  5. Submit your application form, personal written statement and supporting documents via email to [email protected] before your appointment.

At your appointment, a Senior Welfare Advisor will advise you of the outcome of your application.