NEWS: New Rules for Onshore Student Transfers in Australia from 31st March 2026
Australia has introduced new regulations banning education providers from subsidising education agents for onshore student transfers after a student has already commenced studies in Australia. The change, effective for new enrolments after 31 March 2026, aims to reduce non-genuine transfers and improve sector integrity. While students can still transfer between providers, many education agents may no longer be able to assist as schools are no longer able to subsidise transfer applications
If you’re studying in Australia on a student visa, you may be wondering: “Can I change my course after I’ve already started?” The short answer is yes—but there are important rules and conditions you must follow. Making the wrong move could impact your visa status and potentially affect your future migration options.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
When you can change your course without applying for a new visa.
What happens if you want to switch providers before 6 months.
How changing courses may impact future visa applications.
1. Visa Conditions for Changing Courses
Your student visa is linked to the course you are enrolled in at the time the visa is granted. Whether you need to apply for a new visa when you change course depends on the level of the new course:
Same level or higher: You can usually remain on your current visa, provided the new course is CRICOS-registered and will finish before your student visa expires.
Lower level course: If you downgrade (e.g. from a Master’s to a Bachelor’s, or a Diploma to a Certificate IV), you will generally need to apply for a new student visa before starting the new course.
💡 Tip: Always confirm that your new course is CRICOS-listed, otherwise you might breach your student visa conditions.
2. Provider Restrictions (6-Months Rule)
If you want to transfer to a new education provider:
You must complete at least 6 months of your “primary course” (the highest qualification in your visa package, such as a Bachelor’s or Master’s) before you can move to another institution.
If you haven’t yet reached six months, you’ll need to apply for a release from your current provider. Approval isn’t automatic—providers will only grant a release in certain circumstances.
📌 Example: If you start a Bachelor’s degree and want to transfer to another university after three months, your current provider must agree to release you before you can enrol with your newly chosen university.
3. How Changing Courses Affects Future Visa Applications
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) may review your study history when you apply for another visa. Frequent course changes or downgrading qualifications may raise concerns about whether you have been a genuine student.
To avoid potential issues in the future:
Ensure your study pathway is logical and aligns with your career goals.
Keep evidence of your reasons for changing (e.g. academic performance, career direction, provider issues).
Be prepared to explain your decision in future visa applications.
Final Thoughts
Yes—you can change courses on a student visa in Australia, but the rules vary depending on your course level, provider, and timing. Always check visa conditions, confirm CRICOS registration, and think carefully about how the change aligns with your long-term goals.
👉 Need expert advice? Book a Free Consultation with our team to make sure your study pathway and visa remain on track.
