What is my Student Learning Entitlement (SLE)?

Your Student Learning Entitlement (SLE) is the time period during which the Commonwealth Government will support your studies. You can only gain a SLE if you are a Commonwealth supported student.

Time Limits

From 1 January 2005, all Commonwealth supported students receive a Student Learning Entitlement (SLE). This gives access to seven years (equivalent) full-time study (to be extended on a pro-rata basis if studying part-time) in a Commonwealth supported place.

Additional SLE to this seven year SLE entitlement may be granted in circumstances where you have consumed all your standard seven year SLE and you are undertaking an undergraduate course in which the normal enrolment period is longer than six years, or an honours course or a graduate entry bachelor degree or a postgraduate course (that is Commonwealth supported). If you are undertaking an enabling course (i.e. a course of study provided to you that enables you to undertake future study towards an award course) you will not be required to use your SLE.

If you have consumed all your SLE, you may opt to continue your studies as a full fee-paying student.

Consumption

When you enrol as a Commonwealth supported student during the teaching period census date, you consume part of your SLE.

Your Commonwealth Assistance Notice (CAN) details the amount of SLE consumed (shown as unit weight or EFTSL) for the relevant semester. Once your SLE has been completely 'consumed', you are no longer permitted to enrol as a Commonwealth-assisted student. If your enrolment is approved by the University, you must pay your tuition fees directly to UWA. The information regarding Commonwealth assistance contained in this notice is only correct insofar as you have correctly advised UWA of your entitlement to that assistance under the Higher Education Support Act (2003).

It is your responsibility to check your SLE balance for your Commonwealth supported place on the Going to Uni website. You are only eligible for Commonwealth support if you have sufficient SLE.

See also:
What is a Commonwealth Assistance Notice (CAN)?
When will I receive my Commonwealth Assistance Notice (CAN)?
Will my previous studies affect my Student Learning Entitlement (SLE)?
Am I eligible for a Commonwealth Supported Place?