Changing Your Course or Education Providers in Australia: All International Students Need to Know

January 13, 2026

Executive Summary

Changing Your Course or Providers in Australia – International students in Australia have the flexibility to change courses or education providers, but this process is governed by specific student visa conditions and Department of Home Affairs regulations. This guide explains Australia student visa change rules, the six-month rule, release letters, CoE updates, visa changing implications, and course transfer processes.

Whether you are moving from diploma to university, planning changing courses, exploring transferring universities Australia, or checking can we change course in Australia, understanding compliance is essential to avoid visa refusal.

Key Takeaways:

Students can change course after completing 6 months of their principal course without a release letter
Transfers before 6 months require provider approval
Moving to a lower AQF level may require a new visa
Student visa extension in australia may be required if the new course exceeds visa validity
Continuous enrolment and PRISMS reporting are mandatory

Who This Guide Is For (Intent Clarification – Google Critical)

This guide is designed for:

Subclass 500 international students in Australia
Students planning course transfer, uni transfer, or university transfer
Students asking can you switch universities or how do i transfer universities
Diploma, bachelor, master, and PhD students

Introduction

Changing Your Course or Education Providers in Australia – Choosing the right educational path is crucial for your future, and sometimes circumstances require a change in direction. Whether you’re an international student realizing your current course doesn’t align with your career goals, or you’ve discovered a better program at another institution, understanding the rules around course change in Australia is essential.

This guide covers everything international students need to know about:

Changing your course within the same provider
Transferring to a different education provider
Understanding visa requirements and conditions
Navigating the release letter process
Avoiding common mistakes that could jeopardize your student visa

The Australian education system offers flexibility, but that flexibility comes with responsibilities. Let’s explore how to make course changes correctly while maintaining your visa status.

Can We Change Course in Australia on a Student Visa?

Yes – can we change course in Australia is one of the most common questions, and the answer is yes, provided student visa conditions are met.

The belief that international students in australia cannot change courses under new law is incorrect. The new rules for course change in australia regulate timing and eligibility — they do not ban course changes.

Types of Course Changes

There are three main types of course changes international students might consider:

Changing subjects or specializations within your current course
Changing to a completely different course at the same provider
Transferring to a different education provider (changing universities or institutions)

Each type has different requirements and implications for your student visa. Understanding which category your intended change falls into is the first step in the process.

What You Can Do

Change courses within the same education provider
Transfer universities after completing 6 months
Move from diploma to university as a structured pathway
Apply for visa extension australia if required

What You Cannot Do

Change providers before 6 months without approval
Create study gaps
Ignore AQF level regression rules

Important Note: The statement that “international students in Australia cannot change courses under new law” is misleading. While regulations have become more structured, changing course is still permitted under the right circumstances and with proper procedures.

When NOT to Change Your Course

You should not change courses if:

You have already changed providers multiple times
Your academic record shows poor progress
The change causes AQF regression
You are close to course completion
The change increases visa refusal risk

Frequent changing courses may negatively affect future visa assessments.

Student Visa (Subclass 500) Conditions You Must Know

Your ability to managing change courses is directly tied to your student visa conditions. The Subclass 500 student visa comes with specific obligations that continue to apply even when you change courses.

Key Visa Conditions

Your visa grant remains valid only if you comply with:

Condition 8202 – academic progress & enrolment
Condition 8516 – notification & OSHC

Use vevo check visa status or immi visa check via online immiaccount or immi gov australia log in.

Relevant authorities:

Department of Home Affairs Perth
Department of Immigration Office Sydney
Department of Immigration Australia Melbourne
IMMI Office Brisbane
DHA Australia

Understanding CRICOS Registration

Every course you enroll in must be registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). This registration ensures:

The course meets Australian education standards
The provider is approved to teach international students
Your visa conditions can be monitored through the Provider Registration and International Students Management System (PRISMS)

When changing courses, always verify the new course has a valid CRICOS code. Your education provider will report your enrollment changes to the Department of Home Affairs through the PRISMS system.

When You Can Change Your Course

After 6 Months (Principal Course)

No release letter required
You can transfer university australia
New CoE required

Before 6 Months

Provider may refuse based on academic or financial reasons

Release letter mandatory

Same Provider – Same or Higher AQF Level

This is the simplest scenario for changing courses:

If you want to change to another course at the same institution, and the new course is at the same or higher Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) level, the process is straightforward:

No release letter required
Visa typically remains valid (if duration permits)
Faster processing time
Still requires a new Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

Example: Changing from a Bachelor of Business to a Bachelor of Information Technology at the same university.

Changing Provider After 6 Months

Once you’ve completed 6 months of your principal course, you have more freedom:

No release letter needed from your current provider
Can transfer to another provider offering the same or higher AQF level
Must obtain a new CoE from the new provider
The new provider will issue a release through PRISMS

Principal course refers to the main course of study for which your student visa was granted. If you have a packaged visa (multiple courses), it’s typically the highest qualification.

Changing Provider Before 6 Months

If you want to change providers before completing 6 months of your principal course:

You MUST obtain a release letter from your current provider
Your provider is not obligated to grant the release
Valid reasons must be provided (academic, personal, or financial)
Without a release letter, you cannot enroll with a new provider

Exceptions to the 6-month rule:

Your current course has ceased to be offered
Your provider has lost CRICOS registration
Compassionate or compelling circumstances exist
Government-sponsored students may have different requirements

What Counts as a Course Change

Understanding exactly what qualifies as a “course change” helps you determine the correct procedure to follow.

Scenarios That Require Course Change Procedures

Qualification Level Change
- Certificate to Diploma
- Diploma to Bachelor’s degree
- Bachelor’s to Master’s degree
- Master’s to PhD
Field of Study Change
- Engineering to Business
- Nursing to Information Technology
- Arts to Science
Provider Change
- University A to University B
- TAFE to University
- Private college to public institution
Course Package Modification
- Removing a course from a packaged visa
- Adding a course to your study plan
- Changing the sequence of packaged courses

What Doesn’t Count as a Course Change

Changing elective subjects within your current course
Taking summer or winter units
Completing optional internships or placements
Deferring your studies temporarily (with provider approval)

When You Need a New Visa

Not all course changes can be accommodated under your existing student visa. Certain circumstances require applying for a new Subclass 500 visa.

When You MUST Apply for a New Visa

A new visa is required if:

You change to a lower AQF level
Your visa expires before course completion
Study gaps exceed limits

This includes cases like:

Switching to tradie courses
Moving into building course tafe
Certain course of trade programs

Situations Requiring a New Visa Application

Scenario	New Visa Required?	Why?
Changing to lower AQF level	Yes	Moving backwards in qualification level
Current visa expires before new course ends	Yes	Insufficient visa duration
Significant study gap (>28 days)	Possibly	May violate continuous enrollment
Changing from non-award to award course	Yes	Different course categories
Changing after visa cancellation	Yes	Need to reestablish visa status

Moving to a Lower AQF Level

The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) ranks qualifications from Level 1 (Certificate I) to Level 10 (Doctoral Degree). Generally, student visas are granted with the expectation of progression or maintenance at the same level.

Example of AQF levels:

Certificate I-IV: Levels 1-4
Diploma: Level 5
Advanced Diploma: Level 6
Bachelor Degree: Level 7
Graduate Certificate/Diploma: Level 8
Master’s Degree: Level 9
Doctoral Degree: Level 10

Changing from a Bachelor’s degree (Level 7) to a Diploma (Level 5) requires special circumstances and likely a new visa, as this represents educational regression.

Study Duration Changes

If your new course extends beyond your current visa validity:

Check your visa expiry date in your ImmiAccount or via VEVO (Visa Entitlement Verification Online)
Apply for student visa extension before your current visa expires
Note that student visa extension fees apply (check current fees on the Department of Home Affairs website)
Ensure continuous OSHC coverage for the extended period

Steps to Changing Course (Practical Step-by-Step)

Follow this comprehensive process to ensure a smooth course change without risking your visa status.

Step 1: Evaluate Your Reasons

Before initiating any change, clearly identify why you want to change courses:

Academic reasons (course too difficult/easy, wrong field)
Career goal alignment
Financial considerations
Personal circumstances
Better opportunities at another institution

Document your reasons, as you may need to explain them to your current provider, new provider, or immigration authorities.

Step 2: Research Your Options

Identify potential new courses or providers
Verify CRICOS registration of the new course
Check AQF level compatibility
Research credit transfer possibilities
Consider location, fees, and reputation

Step 3: Consult Your Current Provider

Schedule a meeting with:

Your course coordinator
International student advisor
Student services office

Discuss:

Your intention to change courses
Whether a release letter will be needed
Any outstanding fees or obligations
The formal process at your institution

Step 4: Check Your Visa Conditions

Review your current visa status:

Check expiry date via VEVO or your ImmiAccount
Verify you’ve completed 6 months if changing providers
Ensure you understand Conditions 8202 and 8516
Calculate if visa extension will be needed

Step 5: Obtain Release Letter (If Required)

If changing providers before 6 months:

Submit a formal written request to your provider
Provide valid reasons and supporting documentation
Allow processing time (varies by institution)
Your provider must respond in writing within a reasonable timeframe

Your provider may refuse a release if:

You haven’t met financial obligations
Course completion is imminent
They believe the change is not in your best interest
You’re attempting to avoid disciplinary action

If refused unfairly, you can appeal through your provider’s complaints process or contact the Overseas Students Ombudsman.

Step 6: Apply to Your New Provider

Once you have approval to transfer:

Submit application to new provider
Provide academic transcripts
Apply for credit transfer where applicable
Pay application and enrollment fees
Attend any required interviews or assessments

Step 7: Obtain New Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

Your new provider will issue a CoE once you’ve:

Been accepted into the course
Paid required fees
Met all entry requirements
Provided evidence of release (if applicable)

Critical: Do not cancel your current CoE until you have your new CoE confirmed.

Step 8: Notify Department of Home Affairs

Your new provider will typically:

Report your enrollment through PRISMS
This automatically updates your visa record
The Department of Home Affairs receives notification

You should also:

Log in to your ImmiAccount
Update any changed details (address, course information)
Keep records of all documentation

Step 9: Check Visa Validity and Extend If Needed

If your new course extends beyond your current visa:

Apply for a visa extension promptly
Do not wait until just before expiry
Prepare required documents (CoE, financial evidence, OSHC)
Note current student visa extension fees
Allow processing time (varies, typically 1-3 months)

Step 10: Cancel Old Enrollment and Transition

Formally withdraw from your old course (after new enrollment is confirmed)
Return any library books or equipment
Settle outstanding fees
Request academic transcripts
Transfer any applicable credits
Organize transition logistics (housing, transport if changing cities)

Release Letter – What It Is & When You Need It

The release letter (also called Letter of Release or Transfer Letter) is a formal document that can significantly impact your ability to change providers.

What Is a Release Letter?

A release letter is written permission from your current education provider allowing you to transfer to another provider before completing 6 months of your principal course. It’s also known as a “letter of release” in the National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students.

When You Need a Release Letter

Situation	Release Letter Required?
Changing provider before 6 months	YES
Changing provider after 6 months	NO
Changing course within same provider	NO
Provider loses CRICOS registration	NO (automatic release)
Course is no longer offered	NO (automatic release)

Grounds for Requesting a Release

Valid reasons providers typically accept:

Academic mismatch: Course is significantly different from what was advertised
Financial hardship: Cannot afford current course fees
Personal circumstances: Family emergency, health issues requiring relocation
Course quality concerns: Legitimate concerns about course delivery
Career pathway change: Need to switch fields for valid reasons

What If Your Release Is Refused?

If your current provider refuses to grant a release:

Request written reasons for the refusal
Review your provider’s appeal process (must be clearly outlined)
Lodge an internal appeal if you believe the refusal is unfair
Contact the Overseas Students Ombudsman if internal appeals fail
Consider whether waiting until the 6-month mark is feasible

Providers must follow the National Code and cannot unreasonably refuse a release.

Processing Time for Release Letters

Most providers process release requests within:

10-20 business days for standard requests
Longer if additional documentation is required
Faster in cases of provider default or course cessation

Plan ahead and don’t leave this to the last minute, especially if your new course has firm start dates.

Study Package & Visa Implications

Understanding how course changes affect your overall study package and visa is crucial for maintaining legal status in Australia.

What Is a Study Package?

A study package is multiple courses listed on a single student visa. Common packages include:

English language course + diploma + degree
Foundation program + bachelor’s degree
Diploma + bachelor’s degree (often called a “pathway program”)

Your principal course is typically the highest qualification in the package and determines the 6-month calculation.

Maintaining Continuous Enrollment

Critical Rule: You must not have gaps in enrollment longer than the approved course break periods (typically 28 days outside scheduled breaks).

Avoid these gaps:

Between canceling old course and starting new course
During visa processing if applying for extension
Due to administrative delays

How to maintain continuity:

Time your course change for semester breaks when possible
Ensure your new course start date is within the permitted break period
Keep your current enrollment until your new enrollment is confirmed
Maintain OSHC coverage continuously

Academic Progress Requirements

Even when changing courses:

You must continue meeting satisfactory academic progress requirements
Your new provider will assess your progress in the new course
Previous poor performance may affect your ability to transfer
Multiple course changes may raise red flags with immigration

PRISMS Reporting

The Provider Registration and International Students Management System (PRISMS) is how your enrollment is reported to the Department of Home Affairs.

Your provider must report within 14 days if:

You discontinue your course
Your enrollment is terminated
Your course completion date changes
You breach visa conditions
You fail to commence studies on the agreed date

When changing courses:

Your old provider reports your discontinuation
Your new provider reports your new enrollment
Both actions should coordinate to avoid gaps
The Department of Home Affairs monitors these reports

Common Mistakes Students Make

Avoiding these common pitfalls can save you time, money, and potential visa problems.

Mistake 1: Not Verifying CRICOS Registration

The Problem: Enrolling in a course that isn’t CRICOS-registered means your student visa conditions aren’t being met.

The Solution:

Check the CRICOS website before applying
Verify the specific course code (not just the institution)
Ensure registration is current and hasn’t expired

Mistake 2: Assuming All Credits Transfer Automatically

The Problem: Expecting credit for previous studies without formal assessment.

The Solution:

Apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or credit transfer formally
Provide certified transcripts and course descriptions
Understand that credit transfer decisions are at the provider’s discretion
Get written confirmation of any credits granted

Mistake 3: Not Checking If You’ve Completed 6 Months

The Problem: Attempting to transfer thinking 6 calendar months have passed, when the rule refers to 6 months of the principal course (which may exclude breaks).

The Solution:

Count from your actual course commencement date
Exclude mid-semester breaks
Check with your provider for the exact calculation
If in doubt, request clarification in writing

Mistake 4: Waiting Too Long to Start the Process

The Problem: Starting the course change process too close to semester start dates or visa expiry.

The Solution:

Start planning at least 3-4 months before intended transfer
Allow time for:
- Release letter processing (if needed)
- New application and acceptance
- Visa extension (if required)
- Credit transfer assessments

Mistake 5: Not Updating Visa Details

The Problem: Failing to ensure the Department of Home Affairs has correct information about your new course.

The Solution:

Log in to ImmiAccount regularly
Verify your details are updated after enrollment changes
Keep copies of all CoEs and correspondence
Respond promptly to any Home Affairs requests

Mistake 6: Creating Study Gaps

The Problem: Having breaks between courses that exceed permitted periods.

The Solution:

Plan transfer dates carefully
Ensure continuous OSHC coverage
Coordinate end and start dates with both providers
Document any unavoidable gaps with valid reasons

Mistake 7: Not Consulting a Migration Agent

The Problem: Making complex visa decisions without professional advice.

The Solution:

Consult a registered migration agent for complex situations
Use the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA) website to find registered agents
Get advice before making changes that could affect your visa
Consider professional help especially for lower AQF changes or visa extensions

Mistake 8: Ignoring Provider Policies

The Problem: Not following your current provider’s specific transfer or withdrawal procedures.

The Solution:

Read your provider’s transfer policy carefully
Follow formal notification procedures
Get everything in writing
Meet all deadlines and requirements

What Doesn’t Change With a Course Change

Understanding what remains constant can provide reassurance during the change process.

Your Visa Type Remains Subclass 500

Unless you’re applying for a completely new visa, your visa subclass doesn’t change:

You remain on a Subclass 500 student visa
Work rights remain the same (typically 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, unlimited during scheduled breaks)
Travel conditions remain unchanged
Dependent family members’ rights continue

Your OSHC Requirements Continue

Overseas Student Health Cover must remain valid:

Coverage must extend for the entire duration of your visa
If extending your studies, extend your OSHC accordingly
You can transfer OSHC between providers if needed
Maintain continuous coverage with no gaps

Your Financial Requirements

You still need to demonstrate:

Sufficient funds to support yourself
Ability to pay tuition fees
Capacity to cover living expenses
Financial requirements may be reassessed if applying for a new visa

Your Compliance History

Your student visa compliance record follows you:

Previous breaches remain on record
Good compliance history helps with future applications
Multiple course changes may be scrutinized
Maintain excellent attendance and academic progress

What Happens After You Change Course

Successfully changing courses is just the beginning. Understanding the ongoing implications helps you plan effectively.

Impact on Study Timeline

Changing courses may:

Extend your time in Australia if the new course is longer
Shorten your studies if you receive significant credit transfers
Delay graduation if changing mid-year requires starting from semester one
Affect your study plan if prerequisites or sequencing differ

Effect on Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

The Temporary Graduate visa allows international students to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily after completing their studies. Course changes can impact this:

Key Considerations:

You must complete at least 2 years (92 weeks) of CRICOS-registered study in Australia
Study for a single qualification or multiple qualifications (packaged)
All study must be while holding a student visa
Credit transfers may reduce your total study duration below the 2-year threshold

Example Impact: If you complete a 1-year diploma, then transfer to a 1.5-year bachelor’s degree but receive 6 months of credit, your total study time in Australia is 2 years (1 + 1.5 – 0.5) = 2 years. However, if credit reduces it further, you might not meet the 2-year requirement.

Regional Study Considerations: Studying in regional Australia can provide additional post-study work rights. Changing from a regional to metropolitan provider (or vice versa) affects these calculations.

Migration and Permanent Residency Planning

If you’re considering migration pathways:

Your chosen course should align with skilled occupation lists
Some occupations require specific qualifications from accredited courses
Check if your new course leads to professional accreditation
Consider state nomination requirements if pursuing skilled migration
Changing fields may restart your migration pathway planning

Course Duration and Completion

After changing courses:

You’ll receive a new expected course completion date
Your visa must be valid until this date (plus the standard visa period)
Plan for any remaining semesters or academic years
Consider if you’ll need to study during summer terms to catch up

Special Situations and Considerations

Some course changes involve unique circumstances that require special attention.

Changing from ELICOS to Degree Programs

English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) are often packaged with degree programs:

Completing ELICOS earlier than expected may allow early progression
Not meeting ELICOS requirements may require extended language study
Changing your degree program after ELICOS completion is usually straightforward (as you’ve completed the language component)
Ensure the new degree program accepts your ELICOS completion as meeting English requirements

Changing to Shorter or Longer Course Durations

Shorter Course:

Ensure your visa remains valid for the new duration
Consider impact on post-study work eligibility
Check if you need to notify Home Affairs of earlier completion

Longer Course:

Almost certainly requires visa extension
Apply for extension before current visa expires
Demonstrate continued financial capacity
Provide new CoE showing extended duration

Diploma to University Pathways

Many students use diploma programs as pathways to bachelor’s degrees:

Common Scenario: Complete a diploma at TAFE or private college, then transfer to university with credit.

Key Considerations:

Most universities have formal pathways from specific diplomas
Credit transfer is typically 1 year (out of a 3-year degree)
Ensure the diploma and degree are in related fields
Confirm pathway arrangements before enrolling in the diploma
This is considered a progression, not a course change, if packaged correctly

Changing on Personal, Medical, or Compassionate Grounds

If you need to change courses due to:

Health issues: Provide medical certificates and practitioner recommendations
Family circumstances: Document emergencies or compelling situations
Financial hardship: Demonstrate changed financial circumstances
Harassment or safety concerns: Report to appropriate authorities and document

These grounds may:

Justify a release letter before 6 months
Support visa extension applications
Explain gaps in study
Mitigate compliance breaches

Document everything thoroughly and seek advice from:

Your provider’s student services
A registered migration agent
Relevant support services (counseling, financial aid)

Government-Sponsored Students

If you’re on a scholarship or government sponsorship:

You may have additional restrictions on course changes
Your sponsor’s approval is typically required
Sponsorship agreements may specify allowable changes
Changing without approval could result in scholarship loss or visa cancellation

Always consult your sponsoring agency before initiating any course changes.

Understanding the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF)

The AQF is critical to understanding course changes and visa implications.

AQF Level Structure

AQF Level	Qualification Type	Typical Duration
Level 1-4	Certificate I-IV	6 months – 2 years
Level 5	Diploma	1-2 years
Level 6	Advanced Diploma, Associate Degree	1.5-2 years
Level 7	Bachelor Degree	3-4 years
Level 8	Bachelor Honours, Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma	1-2 years
Level 9	Master’s Degree	1-3 years
Level 10	Doctoral Degree	3-4 years

Why AQF Level Matters

Moving between AQF levels affects:

Whether you need a new visa
Your eligibility for post-study work
Immigration pathways
Professional recognition
Credit transfer possibilities

General Rule: Moving up or staying at the same level is easier than moving down.

Transferring Universities: Special Considerations

How to transfer universities in Australia involves unique steps beyond general course changes.

How to Transfer from One University to Another in Australia

How to Transfer Universities in Australia (Clean Intent Separation)

Students searching:

how to transfer universities in australia
how to transfer from one university to another in australia
how do i transfer universities

must follow these steps:

Apply to the new university
Receive offer & credit assessment
Secure new CoE
Cancel old CoE only after confirmation
Update via immiaccount application

This applies to:

uni transfer
university transfer
transfer student
student transfer

Special Case: Transfer to RMIT

Students planning transfer to rmit must confirm:

CRICOS course code
AQF alignment
Diploma articulation pathways

Step-by-Step for University Transfers:

Research destination universities
- Check rankings, course offerings, and reputation
- Review transfer credit policies
- Consider location and cost differences
Check transfer agreements
- Some universities have formal transfer pathways
- Certain credits may be guaranteed under agreements
Meet entry requirements
- Some universities have higher entry standards
- You may need to demonstrate academic achievement at your current university
Understand how to transfer from university to university
- The process is similar to other provider changes
- University application processes may be more comprehensive
- Allow longer processing times for larger institutions

How Do I Transfer Universities Mid-Year?

Transferring mid-year is possible but has challenges:

Mid-year intakes: Check if your desired course has July/August intake
Subject availability: Not all subjects are offered every semester
Credit timing: Some credits may only apply if you start in semester one
Release timing: Ensure you can get your release letter before mid-year applications close

Can You Transfer Universities in Australia?

Yes, you can transfer universities, but consider:

Academic standing: Most universities require good academic standing
Credit loss: You may lose some credits in the transfer
Cost implications: Different fee structures between institutions
Location change: May require relocating to another city

Transfer University Australia: Popular Pathways

Common university transfer scenarios:

TAFE to university: Many TAFE diplomas provide pathways to university degrees
Private college to public university: Often possible with appropriate credits
Regional to metropolitan universities: Common for students wanting city experiences
Between Group of Eight universities: Australia’s top research universities

How to Transfer to RMIT

If specifically targeting RMIT University:

Check RMIT’s Credit and Recognition of Prior Learning process
Review their specific course requirements
RMIT has strong pathways from TAFE diplomas
Apply through RMIT’s international application portal
Contact RMIT’s international student support for guidance

Vocational Education and TAFE Considerations

TAFE, Trade & Vocational Transfers

Includes:

tafe carpentry courses
tafe nsw courses 2025
en courses tafe
let training

Note: Practical components may not fully transfer.

Let Training and Vocational Pathways

Specialized training providers like Let Training and others:

May have limited credit transfer to other providers
Often focus on specific industry sectors
Check accreditation carefully
Ensure courses lead to recognized qualifications

Financial Considerations

Course Fees and Refunds

When changing courses:

Tuition refunds: Check your provider’s refund policy
Application fees: New provider may charge application fees
Student visa extension fee: Currently several hundred dollars (check current rates)
Second time visa application: May cost more if applying for subsequent student visas

Student Visa Extension Fee Second Time

If you need to extend your student visa multiple times:

The fee remains the same for each application
Check current fees on the Department of Home Affairs website
Budget for health checks and other requirements
Consider timing to minimize the number of extensions needed

OSHC Extension Costs

Extending OSHC:

Contact your OSHC provider early
Costs vary by provider and coverage level
Can sometimes extend OSHC online through your provider
Keep evidence of continuous coverage

Administrative Processes and Tools

Using Your ImmiAccount

Your ImmiAccount is crucial for managing your visa:

How to access:

Visit the Department of Home Affairs website
Log in with your credentials
If you don’t have an account, create one using your visa details

What you can do:

Check visa conditions and expiry via VEVO
Apply for visa extensions
Update your details (address, course information)
Check application status
View correspondence from the Department

VEVO – Visa Entitlement Verification Online

VEVO check visa status:

Free service to check your visa conditions
Access through ImmiAccount or as a separate service
Provides information on:
- Visa type and expiry date
- Work entitlements
- Travel permissions
- Study restrictions

Contacting the Department of Home Affairs

Department of Immigration Office Sydney and Other Locations:

Most services now online via ImmiAccount
Phone services available: 131 881 (within Australia)
Department of Immigration Australia Melbourne and other offices handle specific in-person appointments
Home affair jobs and general inquiries through the DHA website

Department of Home Affairs Perth and Regional Offices:

Limited face-to-face services
Book appointments online where available
Use online channels for most inquiries

Checking Application Status

ImmiAccount application and IMMI Office Brisbane and other processing centers:

Log in to ImmiAccount regularly
Processing times vary (check the DHA website for current times)
Respond promptly to any information requests
Keep copies of all documents submitted

Latest News on Immigration Australia

Stay informed:

Subscribe to Department of Home Affairs updates
Check official DHA website for latest news immigration Australia
Follow government announcements about policy changes
Monitor Home Affairs media releases

Professional Support and Resources

When to Consult a Registered Migration Agent

Consider professional help when:

Changing to a lower AQF level
Your situation involves visa breaches or complications
You’re applying for a visa extension with unusual circumstances
You’re unsure about any aspect of the process
You’ve had previous visa refusals

Finding a registered agent:

Search the Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA) website
Verify registration numbers
Check for specialization in student visas
Get quotes and compare services

Student Support Services

Most education providers offer:

International student advisors
Course counseling services
Academic support
Wellbeing and mental health services
Financial hardship assistance

Don’t hesitate to reach out – these services exist to help you navigate challenges.

Overseas Students Ombudsman

If you have complaints about:

Your education provider’s handling of your transfer request
Unfair refusal of release letter
Course quality or delivery issues

Contact the Overseas Students Ombudsman:

Free and independent service
Can investigate complaints
Provides recommendations
Visit their website for the complaint process

Checklist Before You Submit Your Course Change Application

Use this comprehensive checklist to ensure you’ve covered all bases:

Course and Provider Verification

[ ] Confirmed new course has valid CRICOS registration
[ ] Verified CRICOS code is current and matches intended course
[ ] Checked new provider’s reputation and accreditation
[ ] Reviewed course structure and subjects
[ ] Confirmed AQF level (same, higher, or lower)

Timing and Eligibility

[ ] Calculated if 6 months of principal course completed
[ ] Checked course start dates align with your timeline
[ ] Verified you can complete the change without study gaps > 28 days
[ ] Confirmed visa validity covers new course duration

Release Letter (if required)

[ ] Submitted formal request to current provider
[ ] Provided valid reasons with supporting documentation
[ ] Received written release or refusal

Continuing from your checklist section

Understood release conditions clearly
Considered appeal options if release is refused

Visa & Immigration Compliance

Checked visa expiry date via VEVO immigration
Logged into online immiaccount
Reviewed visa grant conditions
Confirmed need for visa extension australia (if applicable)
Budgeted for student visa extension fee second time

Financial & Health Cover

Confirmed tuition fee implications
Extended OSHC if required (extend oshc)
Reviewed tafe payment plans if applicable

Course Change vs University Transfer – Quick Comparison

Aspect	Change Course (Same Provider)	Transfer University Australia
Release letter	Not required	Required if < 6 months
Visa impact	Minimal	Moderate
AQF level check	Mandatory	Mandatory
PRISMS update	Yes	Yes
Visa changing risk	Low	Medium
Common examples	Course of trade, en courses tafe	Transferring universities UTS, degree transfer ANU

How to Transfer Universities in Australia (Detailed Guide)

Many students search how to transfer universities australia, how to transfer universities in australia, or how to transfer from one university to another in australia because university transfers involve more steps than standard course changes.

How Do I Transfer Universities?

To answer how do i transfer universities, follow this structured approach:

Identify the target institution
Apply for admission and credit assessment
Receive conditional or unconditional offer
Secure new CoE
Ensure compliance with australia student visa change rules
Update records via immiaccount application

This applies whether you are planning uni transfer, university transfer, or transfer student status.

Special Case: Transfer to RMIT

Many students specifically search transfer to rmit due to RMIT’s strong industry alignment.

Key points:

RMIT accepts diploma to university pathways
Strong articulation with TAFE NSW courses 2025
Credit depends on course alignment
Common pathways include building course tafe → bachelor programs

Always confirm CRICOS codes before confirming enrollment.

TAFE, Trade & Vocational Course Transfers

Students enrolled in tradie courses, tafe carpentry courses, or course of trade programs must consider practical components.

Key Considerations

Practical hours may not fully transfer
Some courses require let training compliance
en courses tafe usually allow smoother progression
Trades often align with transfer employment opportunities

Visa, Immigration & Government Touchpoints

International students often search:

immigration government au
government immigration australia
dept of immigration australia
department of home affairs perth
immi office brisbane
department of immigration office sydney
dha australia

Important Tools You Must Use

Tool	Purpose
vevo check visa status	Check visa expiry & conditions
immi gov australia log in	Access visa services
http online immi gov au	Official visa portal
my australian	Linked government services
immi visa check	Visa entitlement verification

Impact on PR, Post-Study & Career Planning

Changing courses may impact:

Post-study work eligibility
Skilled migration planning
Employer sponsorship

Nursing, Trades & Higher Education

Common searches covered:

bachelor in nursing australia
how to study nursing in australia
masters in melbourne
phd cost australia
find a phd australia

Ensure your course aligns with visa and immigration australia planning.

Important Timing & Miscellaneous Searches (Explained)

Students often search unrelated but timing-based queries during transitions:

when will the time change in australia
change time in australia
when time change in australia
how many months until july

These usually arise during semester intake planning and do not affect visa status directly.

Financial & Administrative Considerations

student visa extension fee second time applies if extending again
Maintain OSHC – extend oshc if needed
Use http online immi gov au for official applications

Additional FAQs (Expanded for AI Engines)

Frequently Asked Questions (Keyword Placement Safe Zone)

Can you transfer universities?

Yes, if visa rules are met.

How to transfer uni or how to transfer unis?

Follow the university transfer steps above.

Is PTE valid for 3 years for immigration?

Validity depends on visa type.

When will the time change in australia / change time in australia?

These are seasonal timing questions and do not affect visa status.

Can we change course in Australia more than once?

Yes, but repeated changing courses may raise concerns with department of immigration australia melbourne during future visa assessments.

Can you switch universities while waiting for visa granted status?

Only after receiving a valid visa grant and CoE alignment.

Does changing courses affect OSHC?

No, provided you extend oshc and maintain continuous coverage.

Is PTE valid for 3 years for immigration?

Many students ask is pte valid for 3 years for immigration; validity depends on visa type and purpose.

Can international students change courses under new law?

Despite confusion, international students in australia cannot change courses under new law is misleading. Changes are allowed if rules are followed.