Navigating visa requirements when changing courses in Australia
When you first move to a new city and institution, sometimes things simply don’t feel right. You can be looking for a completely another study route, the course might not be appropriate for your ideal employment, or you might just no longer be interested in it.
It’s okay if you begin your education in Australia and then decide it’s not the best match for you and go for change course in Australia. The option of changing courses is available to international students in Australia, but there are a few considerations to make. Whether your long-term goals are related to your future career, education, or personal aspirations, you must make sure that your new plan fits them better than the prior one when switching to a new location, institution, or course.
How to change course in Australia
Students who wish to study in Australia frequently find themselves forced to accept admission to their second-best choice after being denied admission to their first choice for a number of different reasons. Other times, students choose to transfer to another Australia university if their present institution, programme, or curriculum does not fit with their objectives. In order to attend a university that better fits their professional aspirations, students are deciding to transfer from one Australia university to another. Not only are these kids seeking a school with the same courses or curriculum, but they are also seeking a setting in which they feel at ease.
Can I make a U-turn?
Yes! If you believe that what you’re presently studying isn’t the greatest choice for you or your professional aspirations, you may be eligible to change courses as an international student in Australia on a Student visa (subclass 500).
However, there are a few factors to consider before deciding to switch study programmes or courses:
I’ve been studying my initial course for at least six months.
You do not need to apply for a new student visa if you have been enrolled in your original degree for six months or more and desire to course change in Melbourne to a similar-level or higher-level Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) programme at your present institution.
I’ve only recently started studying my initial course.
The same regulations apply if you want to switch courses at your present educational institution after less than six months of study in your initial course.
switching to a non-AQF or lower-level course
You must submit an application for a new student visa if you wish to enroll in a lower-level or non-AQF programme or want to course change in Melbourne. There are certain exceptions if you’re switching from a programme at AQF level 10 (Doctoral degree) to a course at AQF level 9. (Masters’s degree).
Be aware that the start of your primary course may influence your ability to transfer if you are enrolled in a packaged course (such as Foundation studies and university courses packaged together).
Can I switch universities?
You can switch educational institutions if you have completed six months or more of study and want to enroll in a course with the same or a higher level of the AQF. In most cases, you can receive course credit at your new university for topics you’ve already finished. If you are considering transferring to an Adelaide university, you may find out if you qualify for credit transfer at the school you want to attend.
Can I simultaneously enroll at two universities?
You simply need a single school provider’s Confirmation of Enrollment when requesting a subclass 500 visa. To study simultaneously at another university after starting your studies in Australia, you should speak with your initial institution immediately as it can affect your student visa.
Can I relocate interstate for school?
You could be looking for a place like Adelaide that provides a more balanced living. The good news is that you may relocate inside Australia to attend university. The procedure will resemble switching institutions in most ways.
What paperwork is required for my transfer to a new university?
Before transferring, there can be certain papers needed; each school has different requirements. You will need an official letter of release from your present school, as well as any other essential paperwork required by the university’s transfer policy, if you have studied there for fewer than six months. A student adviser should be contacted since they can walk you through the transfer procedures and rules.
Your education provider will notify the Department of Home Affairs about your change to a same- or higher-level AQF course if you have been studying for more than six months, and your ImmiAccount will be updated automatically. Connect with our team at E2VS consultant and Ritika Chawla will help you out in understanding everything related to the process.
