Can I change my course or university on an Australian student visa?

Yes, you can change your course or university while on an Australian student visa, but there are rules and conditions you must follow.

Changing universities or institutions:
- You can transfer to a different CRICOS-registered provider, but if you are in the first 6 months of your principal course, you generally need written permission from your current provider before transferring (unless your provider is closing, or there are extenuating circumstances).
- After the first 6 months, you can generally transfer freely.
- You will need a new Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your new provider.

Changing courses at the same institution:
- Usually straightforward — notify your institution and they will update your CoE.
- If the new course is at a lower AQF level than your current course, you may need to justify this to the Department of Home Affairs.

Impact on your visa:
- Your current student visa generally remains valid as long as you remain enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course.
- If your new course ends later than your current visa expiry, you will need to apply for a new student visa.
- Changing from a higher-level to a lower-level course (e.g., from a Masters to a Diploma) may attract scrutiny about genuine student intent.

Financial implications:
- Check refund policies at your current institution before transferring.
- Compare OSHC coverage dates and update accordingly.

Notify the Department: Significant changes to your study arrangement may need to be reported. When in doubt, contact a MARA-registered migration agent or your institution's international student office.