(Note: This article was first published in 2020 and has been updated to reflect current dates.)
By now you will have heard about the upcoming Session 1 census date, 25 March 2022. I’ve put together some key information to help you get your head around just what census is and what it means for you.
What is census?
Census date is the deadline for students to drop a course or change subjects without incurring financial or academic penalty. It’s also the deadline to apply for a Government HELP loan or pay your student contribution/tuition fees if you’re not deferring payment via a loan.
Why is it important?
After the census date you will not be able to change or withdraw from your Session 1 subjects without financial liability. Also, if you’re required to complete an eCAF and you don’t do so by census, or if you don’t pay or defer your fees, you may not be able to continue studying.
Note: if you’re an international student, you should refer to the International Refund Policy or contact your Student Liaison Officer if you need guidance.
What to do ahead of census
You have from the beginning of session until the census date to check off these important tasks:
- Add or drop any subjects / increase or decrease your study load
- Make sure you have a USI number
- If you are a domestic student, you need to complete your Commonwealth Assistance Form
- Pay or defer your Student Services and Amenities Fee (SSAF)
- Pay your subject fees or, if you’re eligible, defer your payments through a HELP loan
- Apply for a Leave of Absence for a future session if you need to
- Withdraw from your course if you need to.
Depending on the type of study you’re doing, you may have additional requirements. Check the Census checkpoint in your Student Portal for details.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and thinking about withdrawing from your course or subjects, one thing to remember is that you have options. It may be to drop back to part-time study or change some subjects to online mode. There are ways that you can make uni work for you.
If you do need to withdraw from your subjects or course altogether, make sure you follow these steps.
Who to contact for help
If you have a question, chances are it’s been asked before. AskCSU is a great database of questions with informative answers right at your fingertips.
If you can’t find an answer to your question online, or if you need to discuss your personal circumstances, get in touch with Student Central.
You can also contact Charles Sturt support services for a range of assistance to enhance your study experience.
