Australian Government 
Australia Education International

Frequently Asked Questions
for International Students and Education Providers

Who can I talk to about my personal situation?
The best person to speak to is the student adviser at your institution. They can talk you through the options and services that are available.
   
If you are unable to pay your tuition fees, you should talk to your student advisor or international office to discuss payment plans or a possible payment extension.  

Applications will be assessed by your institution on a case by case needs basis. 

Contact your University International Office for direction to your student advisor. 

If you are studying at a Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institution please contact the International Student Officer or the Student Administration Office within your institution for assistance.

Can a student apply for a course deferral or for a reduced study load on compelling and compassionate grounds?
Under Standard 9 of the National Code, a provider may allow an international student to study at a reduced load or put a deferral in place.  This would require an extension of the Certificate of Enrolment for compassionate or compelling reasons, i.e. circumstances beyond the control of the student and which affect the students’ course progress or wellbeing.  

Your institution will make a case by case decision based on its internal policies and procedures under the National Code.  For further information see the National Code.

If I defer my course of study or reduce my study load can I increase the hours I am permitted to work under the conditions of my student visa?

If students are permitted to defer their course of study, their course is considered “out-of-session” and there is no restriction on hours of work permitted.
 
Higher Degree by Research students (visa Subclass 574) have unlimited work rights once their Master or PhD by Research course has commenced.

Students are also permitted to apply to their institution to reduce their course load to part time and retain their student visa status.  Work restrictions still apply but this avenue could reduce the financial cost of tuition fees per semester.

Under the Knight Review changes, students’ permitted work hours are now calculated on a fortnightly basis rather than weekly.  When a course is in session students are permitted to work up to 40 hours per fortnight (previously 20 hours per week).  You may not work more than 40 hours per fortnight during any fortnight when your course is in session. 

Students are permitted to remain in Australia on a student visa if they have agreement from their institution for an agreed period of course deferral.

More information. 

What if I am not currently working, how can I find a job?
For information on employment opportunities you should consult the International Office at your institution.  They will be able to provide you with information on the employment services they have to assist you to find work.

The Study in Australia website also includes some practical advice that may assist you in finding work. 

What can the Australian Government do to help me get my money from Iran? 
From 1 March 2012, all financial transfers valued at AUD$20,000 or more between Australia and Iran require prior approval. The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade can assist in providing you with information on how to apply for an authorisation of your financial transactions.  
More information