Answering Common Questions

Generally, for courses that are 10 months or longer, a visa is valid for two (2) months longer than the course. If the course runs for less than 10 months, a visa is valid for one (1) month longer than the course.

Postgraduate research students are provided an additional six (6) months so they can remain in Australia during the interactive marking of their thesis.

Generally, Student visas for primary school aged students are valid for three (3) years. Students who package primary and high school study together may have a visa granted for a period of five (5) years.

Processing times for student visas vary between 36 days to 17 months, depending on your course of study. Other factors that may impact the processing time may include whether:

1. The documents and evidence you have provided are accurate and complete
2. The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) requests more information or documents, and how quickly you provide the requested additional information
3. There is a need to undergo additional health checks or additional police checks

Yes, you may change your education provider. If you have studied with your current education provider for 6 months or more, you may apply for credit transfer to the institution you are interested in transferring to.

Note: if you’re planning on changing to a lower AQF level course or non-AQF level course (with the exception of transferring from AQF 10 to AQF 9 i.e. from a Doctoral degree to a Masters degree), you may need to apply for a new Student visa.

You may apply for a new Student visa if your current visa is due to expire and your course is still ongoing.

If you’re planning on changing to a lower AQF level course or non-AQF level course (with the exception of transferring from AQF 10 to AQF 9 i.e. from a Doctoral degree to a Masters degree), you may need to apply for a new Student visa.

A Confirmation of Enrolment is evidence that you have received an offer of a place in a course, that you have accepted that offer, and that you are eligible to enrol at university. You will need the CoE when you apply for your student visa. Your Education Counsellor will
explain the documents you will need when you apply for a student visa, including the CoE.