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Picture this: You’re studying in a new country, exploring cities, making friends from around the world and living your own main-character moment. Sounds like a dream, right?
Then reality hits. Flights, accommodation, food and travel expenses don’t exactly pay for themselves.
But before you close that study abroad tab, here’s something worth knowing: there are funding options that could help you turn those overseas study plans into reality.
1. OS-HELP loans: A helping hand with overseas study expenses
Planning to complete part of your Curtin degree overseas? An OS-HELP loan could help cover some of the costs.
OS-HELP is an Australian Government loan available to eligible students undertaking overseas study as part of their degree.
It can help with expenses such as:
- Flights and travel
- Accommodation
- Other overseas study-related expenses
Who can apply?
OS-HELP is available to eligible Australian citizens, certain New Zealand Special Category Visa holders and permanent humanitarian visa holders studying in a Commonwealth Supported Place. Additional academic, enrolment and overseas study requirements apply.
Remember, OS-HELP is a loan, not a grant, meaning it adds to your HELP debt and will need to be repaid under the applicable repayment rules.
If you plan to apply for the loan, please note that applications close 30 November 2026.
2. New Colombo Plan: Explore the Indo-Pacific with financial support
Dreaming of studying in Japan, Singapore, Indonesia or elsewhere in the Indo-Pacific?
The New Colombo Plan (NCP) is an Australian Government initiative supporting eligible Australian undergraduate students to study and gain international experience in the Indo-Pacific region.
Depending on the program, opportunities can include:
- Semester-based overseas study
- Short-term study programs and study tours
- Internships and practical placements
Unlike OS-HELP, NCP grants and scholarships are forms of funding rather than student loans. Eligibility, funding amounts and availability depend on the specific program.
3. Curtin Go Global grants: Extra support for your overseas experience
Did you know Curtin also offers funding opportunities for eligible students participating in overseas exchange programs?
These include:
Go Global Exchange Grants
Designed for students accepted into a semester exchange who can demonstrate how the experience will contribute to their personal development and future employability.
Go Global Financial Assistance Grants
Designed to help students who may otherwise be unable to participate in a semester exchange due to financial hardship.
Grant availability and eligibility requirements vary, so it’s worth exploring your options early.
Before you pack your bags…
Even with financial support, planning your budget is an important part of studying overseas.
Consider how much you’ll need for accommodation, food, transport, insurance, visas and everyday expenses. Costs will vary depending on where you’re going and how long you’ll be away.
And if you’re participating in an eligible exchange at one of Curtin’s partner universities, you’ll generally continue paying tuition fees to Curtin rather than paying additional tuition fees to your host university.
Please note that the Go Global experience applications for Semester 2, 2027 closes on 15 February 2027.
What are you waiting for? Make your study abroad era happen!
