Recent changes to Australian study visas are altering the landscape for international students who want to learn and work on our shores. 

To secure an Australian visa, international applicants will now need to provide the Department of Home Affairs with a confirmation of enrolment, issued by their academic institution, as proof of their study plans.

So, what does this change really mean for students?

Confirmation of Enrolment: What It Means for You

The confirmation of enrolment, or CoE, is a document provided by an academic institution, detailing relevant personal details and study information. A CoE will include course dates and specific information related to study periods and enrolment conditions. 

For students, the new CoE requirement is an extra documentation hoop to jump through, which can create a financial challenge. 

Students can only access a confirmation of enrolment document after accepting a study offer and paying relevant tuition fees, along with overseas student health cover requirements. 

Under the new system, students will need to apply and be accepted to a study institution in order to access a certificate of enrolment from a registered provider before applying for an Australian study visa. In some cases, this could mean that students need to pay some or all course fees ahead of time, before receiving confirmation of a visa that will allow them to proceed with study.

Further, students will need to maintain a valid certificate of enrolment for the duration of their stay in Australia. Any cancellation of a CoE could result in a visa cancellation. 

Why Have the Rules Changed?

It’s not all bad. 

The confirmation of enrolment system is designed to protect students from fraudulent institutions. 

By requiring students to present a CoE from a registered provider, the Australian Government can ensure that students access the highest quality of education. This also allows law enforcement to stop institutions from issuing fake certificates for non-existent courses and pocketing high tuition fees. 

A Double-Edged Sword for Students

Even still, the new CoE system stands to be a double-edged sword for international students, representing a barrier to Australian entry. 

In addition to paying for course fees, students will need large volumes of cash at hand to prove they can survive in the Australian economy for the duration of their study. And that’s not accounting for emergency funds if something goes wrong. 

Your Next Steps to Study in Australia

If you’re eager to explore study options in Australia, it’s important to do your due diligence. 

Seek legal advice to help with the CoE and visa application processes. And make sure you choose a credible course provider with strong international student offerings, such as Skills Recognition, to make your study experience as smooth as possible. 

Study online certificate courses, and access the best education Australia can deliver.