Navigating University Transfers in Australia: A Complete Visa-Safe Guide

Changing universities or courses in Australia is a common scenario for many international students, but it’s crucial to handle the process carefully to avoid visa complications. Your student visa is tied to your enrollment, and any missteps—like failing to update your details or switching to a non-compliant course—could risk your legal status. At DT Consulting, we’ve helped countless students transition smoothly between institutions while ensuring full compliance with Home Affairs regulations.

The process begins with understanding your visa conditions, particularly the rules around course level and duration. If you’re moving to a higher qualification level, such as from a diploma to a bachelor’s degree, your visa will usually remain valid. However, switching to a lower-level course or changing institutions within the first six months of study requires careful planning. You’ll need a new Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) and must notify the Department of Home Affairs to avoid automatic visa cancellation.

 

We guide you through every step, from securing a release letter (if required) to submitting the necessary paperwork on time. Our expertise ensures you don’t face unexpected study gaps or legal issues. For example, we recently assisted a client who wanted to transfer from a business diploma to a computer science degree. By carefully managing the CoE updates and communicating with both universities, we ensured their visa stayed valid throughout the transition.

 

Whether you’re seeking better opportunities or adjusting your academic path, this guide helps you make informed decisions. With the right support, changing universities doesn’t have to be stressful—it can be the start of a brighter future.