Step 1: Identify the “Reason for Denial”

RMIT will always provide a reason for the rejection in your outcome email. In 2026, the most common reasons include:

• Insufficient Evidence: Missing bank statements for all accounts (including savings and credit cards).
• Ongoing vs. Short-Term: The grant is for “unexpected and recent” situations. If your hardship looks like a permanent budget deficit rather than a one-off crisis, it may be denied.
• Eligibility Timing: Being in your first semester of study or having overdue RMIT tuition fees.

The Fix: If your rejection was due to “Insufficient Evidence,” do not start a new application. Prepare the missing documents (PDF format only) to attach to your appeal.

Step 2: Book a “Financial Welfare Advice” Appointment

You should never appeal alone. In 2026, the success rate for appeals increases significantly when a Student Welfare Advisor advocates for you.

• How to Book: Log into the Student Connect Portal and select “Student Welfare” as the service.
• The Goal: The advisor can review your original application and tell you exactly what was missing. They can also provide a “Support Letter” that carries weight during the review process.
• City Campus Hack: If online slots are full, visit Building 10, Level 4 at 9:00 AM for a same-day drop-in session.

Step 3: Submit a Formal “Request for Review”

Instead of a new application, you must request a review of the original decision.

1. The Timeline: You generally have 10 working days from the date of the denial to lodge an appeal.
2. The Evidence: Provide “Significant New Information.” If you were rejected for a medical cost, provide a 2026 Impact Assessment Statement from your doctor. If it was for rental arrears, provide a formal Notice to Vacate or a letter from your landlord.
3. The Submission: Reply directly to your outcome email or submit a new enquiry via the Student Connect portal with the subject line: “Appeal: Hardship Grant Refusal – [Your Student ID]”.

What if the Appeal is Still Denied?

If the Hardship Grant is not an option, your Welfare Advisor can pivot you to these 2026 alternatives:

• Emergency Vouchers: Immediate $50–$100 Coles, Myki, or Prezzee vouchers that do not require the same level of evidence as a cash grant.
• RUSU Student Rights: Contact the RMIT Student Union (RUSU) Student Rights team for independent advocacy if you believe the university has breached its own hardship policies.
• External Material Aid: Referral to Ask Izzy or local Melbourne crisis centers that provide food and housing support to international and domestic students.