Student Visa Australia

Student Visa Answers

Can I convert my tourist or business class visa to a student visa while I am in Australia?

Applicants from Assessment Level 1 countries may well be permitted to convert to student visa within Australia.  Students are asked to contact the department of Immigration and Citizenship to determine eligibility.

Applicants from Assessment Level 2, 3 and 4 countries need to apply for a student visa from outside Australia, unless you have a special circumstance where you are permitted to apply onshore.


Will the Australian Embassy/High Commission accept a faxed copy of my
electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE)?

Yes Australian Diplomatic Posts can retrieve this electronic copy.


When do I need to provide my residential address to my education provider?

Within seven days of their arrival. Students also need to notify personals seven days prior to address change.


Who do I notify when I change my address?

Students are required to logon to OASIS and update their
address/personal details via internet.


Do I need to have Overseas Students Health Cover (OSHC)?

Definitely is it a condition that students are to maintain adequate health insurance approved by the Australian Department of Health and Aged
Care, for the duration of their program.


Can I change my program/course of study after I have enrolled at University?

If this condition is not stated on the student visa, a change of program/course of study shall be subject to the approval from the relevant Head of Department/School or Nominee. If a student visa is subject to Conditions, the student must not change their course of study without prior approval by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC).


Can I change to another education provider within the first 12 months
of my program?

If a student visa is subject to conditions on their student visa, the student must remain with the education institute with whom they originally enrolled with for the duration of the course if under 12 months, or the first 12 months of their course.

Every case is different and has different condition to the individual so contacting us with any further quires is welcomed.


What is a 'full time program of study'?

To ensure that a students degree is complete in the minimum amount of time it is vital to maintain a full time enrolment(100 credits). Students who fail to do this may be reported to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship. In some circumstances, in some cases it may be acceptable to enrol in a study load of less than 100 credits in any semester/trimester


What should I do if I have been terminated from my course/program?

International students are strongly advised to submit a written appeal
against their academic status of Terminated.


Can I renew my student visa in Australia?

While students are currently enrolled in full-time study, they may renew their student visa in Australia as long as their current student visa is not subject to Conditions 'no further stay'. It is advised that steps are taken to renew a student visa approximately one month before the existing student visa expires.


What do I do if my application for renewing my student visa is unsuccessful?

In some cases where a application is refused students may request a review of the decision.


Can I apply for a Leave of Absence?

No, international students are not permitted to take a formal Leave of Absence. In exceptional circumstances or illness, international students may be permitted to defer their studies and avoid visa cancellation.


If I cancel/withdraw from a semester or my course of study/program at
University, am I able to remain in Australia?

Students must contact the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) to determine their eligibility to remain in Australia.


Am I permitted to remain in Australia for the duration of my student visa if I complete my program one or more semesters before it expires?

No. If students wish to remain in Australia they must contact the Department of Immigration to find out eligibility.


Can I work in Australia while I'm studying?

International students who a hold student visa are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week, and unlimited hours during recognised vacation periods offered by the Education Provider.

Please note: The limit on work hours is strictly enforced by DIAC.


Can I apply for Australian citizenship after completing my studies?

You may be able to obtain a new visa to enable you to stay on and even work towards Permanent Residence and Citizenship if you are eligible.


How can I obtain more information on Australian Government Regulations
relating to International Students?

- The Education Services for Overseas Student (ESOS) Act 2000
- The National Code of Practice.

More information is also available on the Department of Immigration and Citizenship website. Contact us for more information.