Course transfer and your visa (changes to AQF level)

If you need to change your Australian Qualifications Framework AQF level while on a student visa (subclass 500) in Australia, there are specific conditions to be aware of:

• Same or higher AQF level: If you want to change to a course at the same or a higher AQF level, you generally do not need to apply for a new student visa.

• Lower AQF level: If you wish to change to a course at a lower AQF level (e.g. from a Master degree to a Bachelor degree), you will need to apply for a new student visa. This is because moving to a lower AQF level is considered a significant change in your study situation.

• Exceptions: If you are moving from an AQF level 10 (doctoral degree) to an AQF level 9 (Master degree), you may not require a new visa.

• Packaged courses: If you are enrolled in a package of courses, you can change courses within the package without needing a new visa, as long as you remain enrolled in the principal course with the highest AQF level.

Before you apply

There may be additional application requirements as well as potential Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and visa implications for you to consider.

We recommend seeking advice from ASK La Trobe who may refer you to an International Student Advisor.

How to apply

Refer to the International Course Transfer Applications section on our Course Transfer page for more information.

While waiting for the outcome of your course transfer application, you must continue to meet all requirements of your current course and other study conditions attached to your student visa.