What you should do if your school closes in the middle of the school year as an international student in Australia.
It is understandable and very important for international students to plan ahead of time and that includes scenarios when your school closes down in the middle of the study. There are specific procedures in place to protect you and your education. Continue reading to learn what the Australian government has established to ensure international students are supported during such situations.
1. Seek Support
Immediately notify your education agents as soon as the news of school closure arises. If you do not have an education agent, do not hesitate to contact Pathway to Aus education agents for free assistance. Our dedicated education team is more than happy to assist you all the way.
2. Tuition Protection Service (TPS)
Australia’s Tuition Protection Service (TPS) is a government-run organisation solely to protect international students. The TPS will work with you to find a similar course at a different education provider and you can transfer your studies to another institution. This process ensures that your education continues with minimal disruption. If you cannot find an alternative course or do not wish to continue your studies, the TPS will arrange for a refund of the unused portion of your tuition fees.
The TPS will help you transfer to another institution offering a similar course. The new provider may offer credit for the units you’ve already completed ensuring you don’t lose any academic progress. The new provider may also allow you to continue your studies under similar conditions (fees and duration), depending on availability.
3. Student Visa Considerations & Updating ImmiAccount
Your student visa remains valid if your school closes. However, it’s important to ensure you remain compliant with the conditions of your visa which include being enrolled in a registered course. Once you find a new course, you need to update your visa information via ImmiAccount to reflect the new provider and course details.
4. Time Frame to Act
Once your school closes, you will have a limited time to enrol in a new course. It is important to act quickly and work with your education agent and the TPS to ensure that you transfer to a new course or institution. If you take no action, your visa could be affected leading to possible cancellation.
5. Support from Education Provider
If your school has planned the closure, they may offer assistance before the shutdown. They might offer transfer recommendations, academic records, or connect you with the TPS early on to ease the transition process.
6. Documentation and Academic Records
Make sure to secure all your academic records (transcripts, certificates, etc.) as soon as possible. These documents will be important when transferring to a new course or applying for a refund through the TPS.
7. Costs and Fees
While the TPS may assist in processing your refund portion of your tuition fees from the closed school, any costs associated with transferring to a new institution (e.g., different course fees, relocation expenses) might not be covered. It’s essential to clarify all fee-related questions with your new provider, education agent, and the TPS.
Key Actions You Should Take:
- Contact TPS and your education agent: As soon as your school notifies you of its closure, contact your education agent and visit the TPS website to contact their support team.
- Look for Alternative Institutions: Work with the TPS to find alternative study options that align with your course and academic goals.
- Notify the Department of Home Affairs: Once you transfer, update your visa details via ImmiAccount.
- Gather Academic Records: Ensure you collect all necessary documentation from your school before it closes.
By keeping notes on the pointers above and working with the TPS, you can minimise disruption to your studies and ensure a smooth transition to a new education provider. Should you have any questions or concerns feel free to contact Pathway to Aus.
