QTAC's Educational Access Scheme (EAS) offers assistance to applicants who have experienced difficult circumstances that have negatively impacted on their studies. If you've applied for a course at QUT via the Educational Access Scheme (EAS), you'll have access to free, confidential, ongoing support once you are enrolled.

The EAS has five categories, and we offer support and benefits to students in each category.

QTAC's Educational Access Scheme (EAS)

Financial hardship

  • If you are eligible in this category, you will be awarded a QUT Equity Scholarship valued at $3,500 (paid in two instalments). You can also apply directly to the Equity Scholarships Scheme to be considered for a computer. You can only receive an Equity computer every third year (e.g., if you received one in 2021 or in 2022, you can't receive one in 2023).
  • Smith Family Learning for Life students who apply to the Equity Scholarships Scheme are guaranteed an Equity Scholarship, and an Equity computer if starting study in Semester 1.
  • Welfare Officers are available via QUT Student Counselling to assist you with issues relating to Centrelink payments, accommodation, budgeting or tenancy, and can refer you to other community resources. All appointments are free and confidential. Our Welfare team recommend that:
    • you make sure you are receiving the maximum Centrelink (Department of Human Services) benefits you are entitled to. They also offer Start-Up and Relocation scholarships, if you receive Centrelink benefits (even partial payments) you might be eligible.
    • you know your HECS-HELP options; low-income students should consider deferred payment options. Deferring your HECS-HELP has no effect on your academic progress, it just means you pay your fees back once you graduate and begin working.
  • The QUT Guild offer support including a food bank and tax help program.
  • Other free services for students include the QUT Medical Centre.

Home environment and responsibilities

  • If you want to improve your efficiency and confidence with study there is academic help and several workshops on offer, including Academic Skills Workshops through the QUT library.
  • QUT Student Counselling provide free, confidential support to students who need help when personal circumstances interfere with their studies. Welfare Officers are also available to assist you with issues relating to Centrelink payments, accommodation, budgeting or tenancy, and can refer you to other community resources.
  • If you are looking for somewhere to live, our various accommodation services can provide information about searching for rental properties, emergency accommodation, and everything between.
  • The QUT Guild offers free legal advice.
  • Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander students should make contact with the Oodgeroo Unit to access a wide range of services including the Centralised Assessment Selection Program, learning and academic extension programs, personal and cultural support and access to common rooms and computer labs.
  • If you are part of the Smith Family Learning for Life program, or have recently left foster care or out-of-home care you can access free career counselling through the Your Future Careers team.

English language difficulty

  • If you speak English as an additional language, Academic Language and Learning Services provide assistance with assessments, academic writing and speaking, professional communication skills, and general study skills.
  • The East West Centre celebrates and acknowledges the diversity of QUT. Attend one of their events to meet other students and learn about each other in a safe and supportive environment.
  • The QUT Guild has a number of cultural and language student clubs enabling students to share their culture.

Personal illness and disability

  • Prospective and enrolled students with a disability, injury or health condition (permanent, temporary, episodic or fluctuating) should make contact with Disability Services as soon as possible. In free, confidential appointments, Disability Advisers work with students to develop and maintain a service plan to ensure you get the most from tertiary study. Examples of adjustments include:
    • adaptive equipment (and training if required)
    • Auslan interpreter services
    • captioning
    • access to Assistive Technology Labs
    • alternative formatting
    • provision of and training in assistive software.

School environment

  • The QUT Library offers free Academic Skills Workshops and consultations to students who would like help with writing assignments. The sessions are interactive and focused on practical strategies to help you improve your efficiency and confidence with study.
  • If you're from a rural, regional or remote area, Student life contains useful information like tips on finding accommodation, employment, and adjusting to tertiary study at QUT.
  • Our various accommodation support services can provide advice on finding and securing accommodation. They can also provide assistance if you have any problems arising from your accommodation.