HECS–HELP Repayment Calculator 2025–26
If you studied at an Australian university with a government loan, you likely have a HECS-HELP debt. This guide explains exactly how HECS repayments work in 2025–26, what the thresholds are, and how to calculate your repayment amount. Use the WageCalc pay calculator to see your HECS repayment included in your take-home pay.
What is HECS-HELP?
HECS-HELP (Higher Education Contribution Scheme – Higher Education Loan Program) is an Australian Government loan that helps eligible students pay their university tuition fees. The debt is indexed annually to CPI and repaid compulsorily through the tax system once your income reaches the minimum repayment threshold.
2025–26 HECS-HELP Repayment Thresholds
Repayments are based on your repayment income — your taxable income plus reportable fringe benefits and reportable super contributions.
| Repayment Income | Repayment Rate | Annual Repayment on Threshold |
|---|---|---|
| Below $54,435 | Nil | $0 |
| $54,435 – $62,999 | 1.0% | From $544 |
| $63,000 – $69,999 | 2.0% | From $1,260 |
| $70,000 – $79,999 | 2.5% | From $1,750 |
| $80,000 – $89,999 | 3.0% | From $2,400 |
| $90,000 – $99,999 | 3.5% | From $3,150 |
| $100,000 – $109,999 | 4.0% | From $4,000 |
| $110,000 – $124,999 | 4.5% | From $4,950 |
| $125,000 – $139,999 | 5.0% | From $6,250 |
| $140,000 – $154,999 | 5.5% | From $7,700 |
| $155,000 – $174,999 | 6.0% | From $9,300 |
| $175,000 – $189,999 | 6.5% | From $11,375 |
| $190,000+ | 7.0% | From $13,300 |
How to Calculate Your HECS Repayment
Your HECS repayment is calculated as: Repayment Income × Repayment Rate. For example, if your repayment income is $75,000, your rate is 2.5%, so your annual repayment is $1,875 (or $72 per fortnight).
The easiest way to calculate your exact repayment is to use the WageCalc Australian pay calculator — just toggle on the Student Loan / HELP debt option and your repayment is automatically included in your take-home pay calculation.
Key Facts About HECS-HELP in 2025–26
- Repayments are automatically deducted through your employer’s tax withholding
- Your debt is indexed to CPI every 1 June
- Voluntary repayments can be made at any time directly to the ATO
- Your HECS debt does not affect your credit rating
- You can check your HECS balance via myGov → ATO → Loans and debts
- Overseas residents must also make repayments (Overseas Levy)
Related Calculators
Also see: Superannuation Calculator | Medicare Levy Calculator | Full Pay Calculator