ESOS Frequently Asked Questions
- Program Registration
- Scholarships
- Enrolment and credit for previous studies
- Visa issues
- Work while studying
- Assistance for students
- Ask an ESOS question
Program Registration
A new program is on the drawing board and all the documents are ready to be submitted to the Academic Board. A staff member is going overseas to meet with agents and prospective students before the Academic Board decision is known. Can this program be advertised with a proviso that accreditation is pending?
No. Before a program can be advertised to international onshore students it must be CRICOS registered. Before a CRICOS code is requested a program must be approved by the Academic Board.
A program information brochure is in circulation and some program changes have been approved. What needs to be done?
Once program changes are approved by the Academic Board, UniSA International updates Program and Fees on the University website. It is a good practice to have a reference to the Program and Fees link in all the brochures.
Scholarships
A school offers scholarships to local students. Can a scholarship be offered to an international student?
Yes, if it is offered on the basis of merit not hardship. DIAC requires international students to provide evidence about sufficient financial funds before they are granted a Student Visa. Therefore they are expected to be able to cover their tuition and living expenses during a period of their studies.
Enrolment and credit for previous studies
A student has commenced their program and realised that some material of the program has been covered before. The student applies for credit and can complete their program earlier than expected. What needs to be considered in relation to the ESOS legislation?
Once the credit is granted and entered on UniSA system, if it will decrease the duration of a student's program Campus Central will issue the student a new CoE to reflect the new duration of the program.
Due to credit granted in the middle of studies a student completes a program earlier than their visa is due to expire. Can they remain in Australia on a student visa to travel/ work?
No. A Student Visa is granted ONLY for study purposes. If a student completes earlier the University will notify the Department of Immigration about early completion. It is likely that a student visa is cancelled upon receipt of this report. It is advisable to approach the Department of Immigration to apply for another type of visa if you intend to travel.
Is a student allowed to undertake some studies overseas during Summer?
A student can undertake studies overseas during summer school as long as they come on time for the next Study Period. It needs to be discussed with a Program Director whether or not these studies will be counted towards a UniSA program.
Visa issues
A student seeks advice on how to apply for PR. To what extent the University staff are allowed to advise the student?
Only registered migration agents can provide advice on various types of visas including permanent residency. The University staff can only refer a student to the DIAC website or Yellow Pages for a list of registered migration agents.
Work while studying
All exams and assignments have been finished before the official break period. Can a student work full-time?
No. Full time employment is permissible only during official study breaks. A student takes their own risk if they start working full time before the official break.
What if the program I was offered differs significantly from the program which I am now studying?
The rights of international students in Australia are protected under the Education Services for Overseas Students Act. You can approach the Learning and Teaching Unit to discuss your situation and find out a solution.
Have not found an answer to your question? Please submit your question and we will respond within three (3) business days.