What is Lying?

If you say you haven't got something in the bank and later it is discovered that you have, then you may be in trouble. However if you say you do have something, such as $500 in the bank when you don't actually have it then you're probably safe. Estimation is not lying either - the amount of your tax return is an estimation only so you cannot be criticised for that. Also, anti-cipated income is unknown - if you do not intend to get part-time work then don't say you do. A full-time course at university is just that - full time and you are not expected to do part time work to support yourself.

If your circumstances materially alter during the year such that your bursary entitlement would be affected up or down, you are obliged to notify the Registrar. Once you have notified him your obligation ceases. The Education Department has stated:

reassessments will not be made except on the basis of a significant change in circumstances. (This means that cost increases of the order of less than $5 will not be considered).

Obviously you are better off if you have under estimated your income and over estimated your costs than the other way round. Do not lie but as long as you notify the registrar of any changes you are in the clear.

The magic figure in calculating bursaries is 37 weeks. This is the length of time you get the basic $23, and it includes the May and August vacations and examinations. The hardship grant is on top of that for the full 37 weeks and will range from nothing up to the full $20 week.