Effective January 1, 2025, Australia will require all onshore student visa applicants to submit a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) at the time of application. The Department of Home Affairs has announced that all onshore student visa applicants will now be required to submit a CoE at the time of application.
This move replaces the previously accepted Letter of Offer and aims to streamline the visa application process for both onshore and offshore students.
Understanding Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
An Australian educational institution issues a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) to confirm a student’s acceptance into a course. Students need this document for their visa applications to demonstrate genuine enrollment and commitment.
What Does the New Policy Mean?
Under the new rules:
- CoE Requirement: Applications lodged within Australia must include a CoE, replacing the previously accepted Letter of Offer.
- Invalid Applications: Submissions without a CoE will be deemed invalid.
- Timeline: Only applications submitted on or after January 1, 2025, are affected. Those using a Letter of Offer before this date remain valid.
Additionally, students without a valid CoE will no longer qualify for a Bridging visa, leaving them vulnerable to gaps in their visa status.
Also Read: Australia Revokes Student Caps and Introduces Prioritized Visa Processing
Why This Change?
The Department of Home Affairs emphasizes that this policy shift aims to:
- Strengthen commitment: Requiring a CoE demonstrates a stronger commitment from students to their chosen institution.
- Enhance integrity: This change is intended to bolster confidence in Australia’s international education sector and ensure the integrity of the Student Visa program.
- Curb “visa hopping”: The Department may also introduce additional restrictions for certain visa holders who wish to transition to a student visa while in Australia.
Boosting Confidence in Education Sector
The Department of Home Affairs emphasized that this policy underscores a student’s commitment to their chosen educational institution. “This change reflects our commitment to strengthening confidence in Australia’s education system,” the Department stated.
Who Is Exempt?
It’s important to note that this CoE requirement does not apply to Foreign Affairs, Defence, and secondary exchange students: These categories of students can continue to provide alternative evidence of enrolment.
What Should Students Do?
Both international students and education providers are urged to familiarize themselves with these new rules.
Secure CoE in advance: Ensure that CoEs are obtained well in advance of any planned student visa application.
Plan accordingly: Without a valid CoE, applications will not be processed, potentially impacting study plans and requiring applicants to explore alternative visa options or depart from Australia.
Rising Costs for International Students
Adding to the challenges, Australia increased its international student visa fees in 2024. The fee hike, from AUD 710 to AUD 1,600, applies to all new applications and places an additional financial burden on students.
Final Thoughts
Australia’s new student visa policy is a significant step toward enhancing the credibility of its international education sector. Students should act quickly to understand the updated requirements and avoid disruptions to their study plans.
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