Switching Universities: Options For International Students In Australia

International students in Australia are allowed to change universities, but this process has become more difficult due to changes in student visa regulations. Students must remain enrolled in a course at the same or higher level as the one their visa was granted for. Before changing universities, students must check their visa status and conditions, and they may need to apply for a new visa if their new course is at a lower level.

If students have completed less than six months of their main course, they can only change universities in certain circumstances, such as the loss of a family member, a major disaster in their home country, or a traumatic experience. In this case, they must contact their current education provider before enrolling at another institution. If students have completed six months or more of their main course, they can change their course or university without applying for a new visa if their new course is at the same or higher level.

Changing the course at the same institution

While changing courses within the same institution may be less complex than transferring to a different one, there are still specific requirements to meet. For instance, you may need to meet certain academic standards or provide documentation supporting your request for a course change. Additionally, the availability of seats in the desired course is crucial, and even top-performing students may not secure a spot in high-demand majors.

If you're considering changing your course within the same institution, it's advisable to proactively reach out to the relevant department and inquire about their policies and procedures. Being well-informed about the process, requirements, and any necessary paperwork will increase your chances of a successful course change.

It's also important to note that changing to a lower-level qualification, such as switching from a bachelor's degree to a diploma, generally requires applying for a new student visa. However, transitioning to a course at the same or higher level usually doesn't necessitate a new visa application, provided your current visa is still valid.

Changing the level of qualification

If you're considering changing your course at the same education provider, the following conditions apply:

• If your new course is at the same or higher level of qualification, or you are moving from a doctoral degree to a master's degree, you can simply make arrangements with your provider and won't need to apply for a new student visa. However, if your current visa is expiring and you need more time, a new visa will be necessary.
• If your new course is at a lower level than your previous one (e.g. moving from a bachelor's degree to a diploma), you must apply for a new student visa.

In addition, if you're considering changing your education provider entirely, the process becomes a little more complex. If you have completed less than six months of your main course, you can only change providers under certain circumstances, such as a loss of a family member, a major disaster in your home country, or a traumatic experience. In this case, you must contact your current provider before enrolling at a new institution, and they will decide whether or not to permit your transfer.

On the other hand, if you have completed six months or more of your main course, you can change your course or provider without needing to apply for a new student visa, as long as your new course is at the same or higher level. If you move to a lower-level course, you will need to apply for a new visa.

It's also important to note that changing courses may affect your student visa. If the end date of your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) changes, you must apply for a new visa within 28 days of completing your principal course to avoid visa cancellation.

Lastly, if you hold a student visa (subclass 500) and wish to change to a lower level or non-Australian Qualifications Framework course, you can do so but will need to apply for a new student visa, unless you are moving from a doctoral degree to a master's degree.

In conclusion, while it is possible for international students in Australia to change the level of their qualification, it's important to carefully consider the impact this may have on their student visa status and to follow the correct procedures to ensure a smooth transition.

Changing the institution

If you are considering changing institutions, you can speak with your current institution for information on doing this. In most cases, your new institution will be restricted from enrolling you if you haven't completed a minimum of six months of your main course of study (the course for which your student visa was granted).

If you wish to change institutions before completing the first six months of your main course, you must contact your current institution for permission. You will require a letter of offer from the new institution to apply for a letter of release from your current institution.

If you have completed six months or more of your main course, you can inform your current provider, and they will inform the Department of Home Affairs. You will not need to apply for a new student visa if your new course is the same as or higher than your current course. However, if you are transferring to a lower-level course, you must apply for a new student visa.

It is important to check the Department of Home Affairs website, as conditions can vary depending on your visa subclass and circumstances.

Visa requirements

International students in Australia are allowed to change their course of study, institution, or level of qualification. However, there are certain visa requirements that must be met to do so. The type of student visa held will determine the specific conditions that must be fulfilled.

Student Visa Requirements

As per the Australian government's student visa policy, international students must maintain enrolment in a course at the same or higher level as the course for which their visa was granted. This means that students cannot switch to a lower-level qualification without applying for a new student visa. For example, changing from a bachelor's degree to a diploma would require a new visa application.

It is important to note that students may need to obtain permission from their current education provider before transferring to a different institution. Additionally, the new institution may have specific entry requirements that must be met.

Visa Subclass

The visa subclass may change if an international student decides to change their level of qualification. For instance, moving from a diploma to a bachelor's degree or vice versa, In such cases, a new student visa application is typically required.

Visa Expiry

If an international student's current visa is expiring and they need more time to complete their new course, they must apply for a new student visa. This ensures that they have valid visa status throughout their studies.

Streamlined Student Visa

International students who have been granted a streamlined student visa in Australia are restricted in terms of transfer options. They can only transfer to universities that are eligible for this type of visa. Transferring to an institution that is not eligible for a streamlined student visa may require cancelling the current visa and reapplying for a different type of visa.

Visa Conditions

It is crucial for international students to check their specific visa conditions and requirements before making any changes to their course or institution. The Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system can be used to review visa details and conditions.

Minister's Approval

In certain cases, international students may need approval from the Minister to change their course of study, thesis, or research topic. This applies specifically to graduate certificates, doctorates, and any linking courses required for master's or doctoral programs. The Minister's consent is necessary to ensure that the student does not pose a risk to the country's national security.

Financial obligations

International students in Australia have various financial obligations to consider. Firstly, it is important to note that international students are required to demonstrate sufficient financial capacity when applying for a student visa. As of May 10, 2024, the Australian Department of Home Affairs increased the savings requirements for student visas to align with the national minimum wage, ensuring better financial stability and reduced exploitation. This adjustment aims to reflect the accurate cost of living for students in Australia.

During their studies, international students must also pay tuition fees, which can be covered through scholarships, grants, or bursaries offered by the Australian Government, education providers, or other public and private organisations. It is advisable for students to discuss their financial options with their education provider's admissions team or international office.

In addition to tuition fees, international students in Australia often take on casual or part-time jobs to cover their living expenses and gain industrial experience. It is important for students to be aware of their working rights and obligations. They are entitled to reasonable breaks, a safe working environment, and a minimum wage, which is currently $19.49 per hour. Students should also be aware of potential exploitation, such as unpaid work trials or not being provided with a payslip.

Furthermore, international students in Australia need to consider their tax obligations. If they reside in the country for more than six months, they are considered 'residents for tax purposes' and must obtain a Tax File Number and lodge an income tax return annually.

Overall, international students in Australia have several financial obligations, including visa requirements, tuition fees, living expenses, and tax responsibilities. It is important for students to be proactive in understanding and fulfilling these obligations to ensure a smooth educational experience in Australia.

Frequently asked questions