Student Loans To Keep Your Studies On Track
Last Reviewed and Updated: October, 2025
You have a census date coming, a laptop that quit mid‑semester, or placement that means fewer shifts for a month. A 
CashLend student loan keeps study moving by covering the gaps that government programs do not. Apply online in minutes, get a quick decision, and if approved and signed, funds typically arrive within 24 hours. Repayments line up with your pay cycle so the budget stays predictable while you focus on uni, 
TAFE, or a short course.
What Is a Student Loan and How It Differs From Government Study Loans
Government support such as 
HECS‑HELP, FEE‑HELP and VET Student Loans usually pays tuition at approved providers and is repaid through the tax system. A CashLend student loan is a 
personal loan for the other costs of studying, like devices, textbooks, transport and short rent gaps. It sits alongside government help, not instead of it, and comes with fixed repayments and a clear finish date.
What a CashLend Student Loan Can Cover
- Course fees that are not covered by HECS‑HELP or FEE‑HELP, short course fees, or private provider invoices.
- Textbooks, study software, a second‑hand laptop or tablet, and repairs to keep your gear working.
- Travel to campus or placement, Opal or Myki top‑ups, short stays for block mode, and internet bills during exam periods.
- Everyday essentials during intensive weeks when work hours dip.
How to Apply for a Student Loan at CashLend
- Start your application. Tell us the amount you need and share basic details about your study and income.
- Provide documents. Upload ID and allow read‑only access to the last 90 days of bank statements so we can verify income and regular expenses.
- Get an outcome. We assess affordability from your income, expenses and recent banking and send a clear summary of the offer if approved.
- Review, sign and receive funds. Check the total cost and all repayment dates, sign electronically, and funds typically arrive within 24 hours after approval and signing.
Eligibility and Documents
You are at least 18, an Australian citizen or permanent resident, with regular income for the last 90 days and an active mobile and email. Have a current photo ID and an Australian bank account in your name. We may verify credit information with Equifax, Experian or illion as part of responsible lending.
Costs, Timing and Repayments
You will see the amount, fees, term and the total payable before you agree. Repayments are set by direct debit weekly, fortnightly or monthly to match your pay cycle, and you can make extra payments or pay out early with no fee.
The fund transfer timing depends on when you apply and how quickly verification completes, but approved and signed loans typically fund within 24 hours. If your roster changes or placement begins, contact us early so we can adjust dates and help you stay on track.
Make the Most of Your Loan During Study
Buy prescribed textbooks where possible, use student concessions on transport, and plan around census and placement dates so repayments do not clash with low‑income weeks. Keep an eye on the remaining balance in your CashLend dashboard and trim the term with small extra payments when shifts pick up.
If Your Roster Changes or Placement Begins
Applications are assessed under the National Consumer Credit Protection Act 2009 and the 
National Credit Code. 
ASIC licenses and supervises credit providers. If a complaint arises, we will investigate promptly; if we cannot resolve it together, the 
Australian Financial Complaints Authority can help on 1800 931 678. 
MoneySmart explains student finance options and managing repayments. For privacy questions, see the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner.
Student Loan FAQs
Can I use the loan if my course is not HECS‑HELP eligible?
Yes. Personal student loans can fund courses and providers that are outside government schemes, plus related study costs.
Do I need to be full‑time to apply?
No. We consider full‑time, part‑time and online study. Affordability is based on your current income and expenses.
Will casual work count as income?
Yes. We review your last 90 days of banking to see average earnings so repayments stay realistic for a variable roster.
Can Youth Allowance or Austudy be considered?
These payments may be considered alongside wages or other income where the combined amount supports the proposed repayments.
How soon could I receive funds?
For approved and signed offers, funds typically arrive within 24 hours. Public holidays and late evening approvals can add time.
Can I pay the loan out early?
Yes. You can make extra repayments at any time and pay out early with no fee, which reduces the total you pay.
Will you check my credit file?
We may check credit information with Equifax, Experian or illion as part of responsible lending. Current banking and affordability carry the most weight.
What if I need to change a repayment date during exams?
Contact us before the due date. We can move a date or adjust an instalment for a short period so you can focus on exams.
Can I apply if I live away from home for placement?
Yes. You can use funds for travel, short stays and extra costs linked to placement, subject to affordability.
What happens if I miss a payment?
Late fees can apply and your credit profile may be affected. Tell us early if a payment looks tight so we can discuss options under the National Credit Code.
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