Private ruling: Work-related expenses - self-education
Date of advice: 9 October 2020
Published: November 2020
Ruling period: Income year ending 30 June 20XX
Date scheme commenced: 1 July 20XX

Ruling: Q1: Are you entitled to claim a deduction of $XX,XXX for the costs incurred in relation to your university studies completed during the period covered by this ruling under section 8-1 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 ? | A1: Yes. Based on the information provided the Commissioner accepts that your self-education expenses in relation to the university units are deductible, as it is accepted the study meets the requirements detailed in Taxation Ruling TR 98/9. Further information about self-education expenses can be found by searching 'QC 31970' on ato.gov.au.

Relevant facts and circumstances: You came to Australian to commence studying for a master's degree at an Australian university. After several months you commenced working part-time at Company A in a position in the same field as covered in the master's degree. You enrolled for X units covered by this ruling during the period covered by this ruling and completed your master's degree in near the end of 20XX. While you were studying for your master's degree, specifically during the final semester, your understanding of the subjects covered by the master's degree increased your knowledge and skills in relation to your employment with Company A and you were able to apply it in relation to your employment. You consider that you became more efficient and capable when handling client's work and performing your duties more efficiently and productively through connecting your learnings from the master's degree and applying them in practice in relation to your employment. You incurred $XX,XXX consisting of amounts relating to the cost of the X units completed during the period covered by this ruling, and students and amenities fees. You completed your studies at the end of 20XX you were offered a full-time position at Company A and after several months you were promoted. The Director of Company A provided a letter includes the following information: · You were offered full-time employment after you had finished your degree; and · You had been working efficiently in a full-time position due to your studies which had resulted in you being promoted.

Relevant legislative provisions: Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 Section 8-1