Changing university in Australia: the 12-month rule
UpdatesPublished Updated by Tausif Khan· 2 min read
Your student visa covers a main course, called your principal course. If you have a package of courses, this is usually the final, highest level one. Education providers (universities and colleges) are currently restricted from enrolling a student who wants to move from another registered provider before that student has completed 12 months of the principal course.
What the rule says
From 2 October 2026 to 30 June 2027, the restriction period is 12 calendar months, counted from the start of your principal course. It is a temporary extension of the usual 6 months, and from 1 July 2027 it is due to return to 6 months. After you have completed the period that applies to you, you can move to another provider without needing one of the exceptions below.
The exceptions
A new provider can enrol you earlier only in limited cases:
- your current provider gives you a release;
- your current provider, or your course, is no longer registered;
- your current provider has had a sanction placed on its registration that stops you continuing there; or
- a government sponsor of your studies considers the change to be in your best interests and supports it in writing.
Check how a release request works with your current provider, since each one has its own process.
How it affects your visa
A change of provider can affect your student visa. If you change provider and then need a new student visa to finish your course, you cannot use the course completion exemption to apply from inside Australia. You must be outside Australia when you lodge the application and when it is granted. Moving to a lower level of study can also mean a new visa is needed. Confirm your own situation with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent before you move.
Our advice
Choose the university and course you actually want to finish before you enrol. Your counsellor will help you plan the full pathway, including any foundation or diploma, so you do not need to change provider early.
Official sources
Rules change. Check the current details on the official pages below.
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Tausif Khan