HELP Studentships: What Are the Benefits? Media Statement

Below is an adapted version of the media statement released by DHERST per the HELP (PNG Higher Education Loan Program) studentship load program for 2020. The original version can be found via the link provided below. 

IMAGE: DHERST Media Release

Key points about PNG Higher Education Loan Program

• HELP student loan is 'interest-free' with lenient repayment plans and schedules
• Application for HELP is online via DHERST website
• Students will begin repayments on their loan about six months after their graduation
• HELP studentships will commence during the opening of the first semester of the academic year 2020.
• You DO NOT have to get the loan if you can afford to pay higher-education fees or have secured a sponsorship.
• HELP covers a wide range of students as long as the students secured a place at a tertiary institution in the country: self-sponsored, drop-outs/self-withdrawn, selected students, post-graduate students, etc

One disparity between an NBC new article (READ IT HERE) and this press release is the difference in HELP 'commencement dates'. But, understandably the date of commencement stated by DHERST (first semester of the academic year 2020) could be considered.

HELP is 'far-reaching'

Government is committed to providing financial assistance to students this year through the innovative and far-reaching HELP program that has been carefully designed with the PNG context in mind.

Whilst we wish to reward academic excellence, it should be noted that HELP will fund those students who, for different reasons, may have not met the qualifying criteria for TESAS.

To clarify the situation, during this academic year a full awareness-raising program will be carried out across all institutions of higher learning and the public at large.

The HELP program is inclusive and will also extend to those students who are self-sponsored. 

In future years the program will embrace students who have ‘dropped-out’ for whatever reason and wish to return to further their education in either government or private higher education institutions.

Government is firmly committed to the principle of equal value in education, seeing it as a fundamental right, and will ensure that no child or student is left behind.

How to apply for HELP?

Those seeking access to HELP studentships will download and complete application forms from the DHERST website once they have enrolled with, and been accepted by, an HEI for the 2020 academic year. 

During the coming year, we will register all prospective students through the issue of National Identity Cards.

The rollout of the HELP studentships will commence during the opening of the first semester of the academic year 2020.

Many people are understandably hesitant to borrow money. Any loan is a serious commitment, and should not be entered into lightly.

Having said that, student loans are often necessary to make it possible for a young person to fulfil their university or college dreams.

HELP terms and provisions

The PNG Higher Education Loan Program (HELP), offers special terms and provisions that make them a more affordable and manageable commitment for young university or collegebound students.

Around the world, most student loans offer lower interest rates, but the PNG HELP is interest-free, provides for deferred payment options together with a repayment grace period following graduation.

Under the HELP, student borrowers can also take advantage of more lenient repayment plans and schedules that are exclusive to HELP, unlike the more restrictive terms and conditions of a standard loan.

HELP studentships offer greater flexibility and more manageable terms and conditions than standard non-education loans.

For many students, an education loan will be their first major financial transaction. While taking out a studentship may seem a daunting prospect, it is also the perfect opportunity to begin to build a solid credit history.

HELP is the beginning of many students' financial history. By keeping up to date on all university or college loan repayments a student can begin to lay the foundation of a good credit score, which will prove greatly beneficial in later life.

One of the many advantages of a HELP studentship is that the student does not need to repay before he or she graduates. The HELP scheme will allow students time to seek a job before repayments commence.

Generally speaking, students will begin repayments on their loan about six months after their graduation.

Benefits of HELP Loan

There are clearly many benefits of a HELP studentship.

Naturally, there will be students who are wealthier than others and who may not need to consider such an offer. However, for most students, a HELP studentship is a means (way) of allowing them (poor students) to concentrate on their studies rather than worrying about the source of funding for their tertiary education.

Professor Fr. Jan Czuba

Secretary DHERST

Source: DHERST, HELP Studentships: What Are the Benefits? [ORIGINAL PDF DOC] released 13th January 2020

Note: The media statement was adapted for an easy read. The signed original copy can be found via the link above. 

Recommended readings for HELP students loan

Here are past news articles and information about DHERST HELP student loan programs that you should know when applying.

• Introduction of HELP student loan, 2020
• HELP Studentships: What Are the Benefits?
• TESAS and HELP APPLICATION INFO
• How to apply for 2021 - 2022 HELP Application 

Leave a comment and let us know what you think. 

How to Download TESAS List Continuing Students (And Check Your HECAS Status)

The Tertiary Education Study Assistance Scheme (TESAS) and the Higher Education Contribution Assistance Scheme (HECAS) are essential financial aid programs aimed at supporting higher education students in Papua New Guinea. For continuing students, it is crucial to understand the procedures for downloading the TESAS list and checking their HECAS status to ensure they remain eligible and receive the necessary support.

If you are a continuing student wanting to find out about the TESAS List for 2025, you've come to the right place. In this article, you'll get the latest updates and know what to expect - also check out the relevant article in the reference section to know more about the DHERST lists, launching and publication dates, and relevant information relating to you as a continuing student for 2025.

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You should read this article about DHERST expectations for Continuing Students and share it with your friends

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Steps to Download TESAS List for Continuing Students

1. Access the Official DHERST Website:

Visit the official Department of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (DHERST) website. The official website URL is typically provided in official communications or can be found through a simple web search for DHERST.

2. Navigate to the TESAS List Section:

On the DHERST website, look for a section or a link specifically labelled for the TESAS list. This section is often found under the announcements or scholarships tab.

3. Download the TESAS List in PDF Format:

Once you find the TESAS list section, there should be an option to download the list in PDF format. Click the download link and the file will be saved to your device.

Ensure you have a PDF reader installed on your device to view the document.

Check this page to download the DHERST TESAS Award list for New Intakes (SL & NSL) and Continuing students - download the PDFs here 

Important Reminders:

• Double-check that you are downloading the correct year's TESAS list (e.g., 2025).
• Save the downloaded file in a secure and easily accessible location.

How to Check Your TESAS Status?

After downloading the TESAS Award PDF, follow these five simple steps:

• Open the Continuing Students TESAS Awards List saved PDF on your device.
• Use the 'Search' Icon: Utilize the search function within the PDF viewer.
• Type in Your SLF Number, Name or Institution ID Number: Ensure you enter your full name (surname and given name) for accurate results.

Once you find your name, verify other important details like the institution, program, year, and award. This ensures all your information is correct and up-to-date.

Downloading TESAS List Issues

If you encounter difficulties finding or downloading the TESAS list, ensure you are on the official DHERST website. Look for any updates or notices that may indicate a delay or technical issue.

If your status is approved, ensure all necessary steps are followed to receive your assistance.

If additional information is required, promptly provide the necessary documents to avoid delays.

For any issues or discrepancies, contact DHERST or your institution for clarification and support.

Advisory Notice for Continuing Students - 2025

If you are a continuing student and your name does not appear on the TESAS-approved list, your name may likely be included in the Supplementary List, which is expected to be published soon.

While DHERST has not specified an exact publication date for the supplementary list, it would be advisable to check the department's website regularly for updates.

Additionally, institutions that have not yet submitted the list of continuing students are strongly encouraged to do so before the end of January 2025.

Additional Resources and Contact Information

For further information and updates, regularly visit the official DHERST website and NOAS portal. If you have any questions or need assistance, contact DHERST through the following:

Telephone Numbers: 3012076 or 3012058/3012048/3012070

Email: info@dherst.gov.pg

Reference articles for further reading:

• Introduction of HELP student loan

• HELP Studentships: What Are the Benefits?

• TESAS and HELP APPLICATION INFO

• How to apply for HELP Application 

• TESAS stands for Tertiary Education Students Assistance Scheme. There are two categories of TESAS. See this post for more info on TESAS. 

• Changes to TESAS and the introduction of the HELP student loan scheme.

• Higher Education Help Program News Article - READ MORE.

• Check this page to download the DHERST TESAS Award list for New Intakes (SL & NSL) and Continuing students - download the PDFs here 

About PNG Insight

PNG Insight is an education blog. It aims to highlight the key developments in the education sector in Papua New Guinea. Started in 2014 on Google's blogger (now self-hosted on WordPress), PNG Insight strives to be a platform for critical thinking and discussions; and a source of information.

Leave a comment and let us know about your visit. 

TESAS: Grade 12 Guide to Securing a Tertiary Institution Government Scholarship

As a Grade 12 student with a GPA above 2.00, you may have been denied the opportunity to pursue higher education. While this may be disheartening, it is important to remember that there are still options available to you.

It is important to note that if your GPA is below 2.00, it will be extremely difficult to gain admission to a tertiary institution. This post is specifically for Grade 12 students with a required GPA and self-sponsored students. We want to help you to apply for a government scholarship so that you do not have to put burdens on your family.

• If you do not know your GPA, see how to calculate it ⇦. 

• You can also find out why your choice on SLF has a big impact on selection⇦.

In fact, there are many students who tried again and were fortunate to enter universities and colleges in the country. You can also do the same to secure yourself not only space but also a government scholarship - HECAS.

Research the program of your choice thoroughly

First, research the program of your choice thoroughly. The students' services and administration officers will provide the necessary help.  Start with the answers to the following questions before completing and submitting the application form:

• What is the minimum GPA requirement? This question will help you to identify whether you are a hot, warm or cold applicant.
• How many spaces are available? Knowing the number of intakes every year gives the applicant a picture of the space there is. According to the Grade 12 stats, five students are applying for every space available under government scholarships.
• When is the closing date for submission? Getting the time right is important too - your application must not be too early or too late.
• What to do when you've made a submission? Always follow up with the Student Services or Administration for updates. 
• What if you are not selected after having applied? Do not stop there. If you have done the first three steps properly (and are convinced you are the likely candidate), go to the institution and demand the reason why your application was rejected. This must be done before the start of the academic year.

Make every effort to secure a government scholarship

Second, make every effort to secure a government scholarship for the program on successful application. It is tight to get a Higher Education Contribution Assistance Scheme (HECAS) scholarship especially if you are a non-Grade 12 school leaver. That means that you will have to sponsor yourself during the first year of your study. 

Once the door is opened for you, get in, do well academically and apply for a second-year scholarship. Make no mistake, you must perform well and maintain your GPA in the first year. 

Importantly, on successful completion of semester one ask your lecturers, Admin and Student Services staff for help with completing an application for securing your scholarship. 

Complete the application form for the tertiary student scholarship offered by the PNG government and submit the application around May/June to the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) in Port Moresby.

Follow up with DHERST Scholarship Office 

Always follow up immediately and regularly to find out about your applications. Thimon is one of the best people to help you. His email is Thimon.Bune@dherst.gov.pg. 

To ask for application forms call 301 2052  or email ask@dherst.gov.pg. More information on government yearly scholarships ( TESAS, AES, and HECAS) can be found on the DHERST website. 

About PNG Insight
PNG Insight is an education blog. It aims to highlight the key developments in the education sector in Papua New Guinea. Started in 2014 on Google's blogger (now self-hosted on WordPress), PNG Insight strives to be a platform for critical thinking and discussions; and a source of information.

You can follow us on Twitter (@PNG_Insight) for information on Education and Development in Papua New Guinea.