If you're an international student in Australia wondering "Can I change my course in Australia?" — the answer is yes, but there are rules to follow. Many student visa holders choose to change courses due to cost, interest, or a faster path to graduation. But switching your course or education provider under a subclass 500 visa needs proper planning.

This guide explains how to change your course of study, apply for a new student visa if needed, and ensure you stay compliant with student visa requirements.

1. Can an International Student Change Course on a Subclass 500 Visa?

Yes, an international student in Australia can change their course of study under the student visa in Australia, as long as:

  • You remain enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course

  • The new course is at the same or higher AQF level

  • You get approval if you wish to change to a lower-level course

If you plan to transfer to a non-AQF course or lower-level course, you may need to apply for a new student visa.

2. Course Change Requirements for Subclass 500 Visa Holders

The course change requirements include:

  1. Checking your visa was granted for your current course

  2. Speaking with your education provider or international student advisor

  3. Ensuring your study situation supports the transfer

  4. Meeting any requirements to stay in Australia legally

3. Changing Your Education Provider: First Six Months Rule

If you are in the first six months of your main course of study, you must:

  • Get a release letter from your current provider

  • Provide a valid new confirmation of enrolment

After completing six months of study, you can change providers without needing permission. This is part of the changing your education provider policy by the Department of Home Affairs.

If you've done less than six months, the release letter requirement still applies.

4. Steps to Change Your Course or Provider

Follow these steps if you want to change your course:


  1. Speak to your international student advisor

  2. Apply for a new course

  3. Get a new CoE (confirmation of enrolment)

  4. Inform your current provider

  5. Check if you need a new visa

  6. Inform the Department of Home Affairs if necessary

This ensures your student visa to cover your new course stays valid.

5. When Do You Need to Apply for a New Student Visa?

You need to apply for another student visa if:

  • You change to a lower-level AQF course

  • Your course package changes significantly

  • You plan to leave Australia and re-enter for study

Changing courses to a lower AQF level may void your current visa, making it essential to apply for a student visa again.

6. Changing Courses or Institutions: What to Know

Some important reminders:

  • Always confirm course is CRICOS-registered

  • Ensure your visa within its validity period covers the new course

  • Review if your visa may be affected by the change

If you transfer to a course that delays your graduation, make sure your visa requirements still align.

7. Does Changing Course Affect Your Post-Study Path?

Yes, switching your main course of study might affect:

  • Temporary Graduate Visa eligibility

  • Compliance with six months of study rule

You must complete at least two years of study in Australia in an eligible course. Programs like Hospitality Management Diplomas or Cooking Courses for International Students can still support post-study options. 

Post-study visa impacts:

Only studies at the Bachelor level or higher (and in some cases, Diploma-to-Advanced Diploma with clear career pathways) will be eligible for the 485 Post-Study Work Stream. Hospitality/cooking students are not eligible for this stream, but may apply under the Graduate Work Stream.

8. How the Course Packaging in Australia Affects You

When enrolled in packaged courses, you need to:

  • Keep all CoEs active

  • Monitor primary course of study

Switching courses mid-way could impact your visa application charge, visa timing, or future education in Australia plans.

9. Helpful Examples for International Students in Australia

Example 1: John was enrolled in a Level 10 course but wanted to switch to a diploma. He had completed less than six months and needed to get a release letter and apply for a new student visa.

Example 2: Rina, an overseas student, transferred from a business diploma to technical skills in hospitality after six months. She remained compliant and continued to study in Australia without any issue.

10. Who to Contact for Help?

If your request to change course is denied unfairly, contact the Ombudsman or the Overseas Student Ombudsman in your state or territory.

You can also:

 

Final Thoughts: Change Course, Stay Informed

If you want to change your course in Australia as an international student, remember:

  • Know your visa requirements

  • Talk to your education provider

  • Follow the course change requirements

  • Make sure your visa covers the new course

Explore cost-effective, faster options:

Need more help deciding on your next step? Leave a comment, contact an advisor, or share this guide with a friend who's also studying in Australia!

FAQs

Can I transfer my course to another university in Australia?

Yes, especially after completing six months of your current course.

Can I change my major in Australia?

Yes, as long as it complies with student visa in Australia conditions and AQF level.

Do I need a new visa if I change to a lower-level course?

Yes. You must apply for another student visa if you change to a lower-level course.

What happens if I change courses too often?

It may affect your study situation, future visa applications, or even stay in Australia.