Australia Discontinues Dual Course Enrollment Simultaneously for International Students

Australia Discontinues Dual Course Enrollment Simultaneously for International Students

The Australian government has announced a significant change in the education sector, preventing students from enrolling in two courses simultaneously. According to the latest news, the rule is applicable for the first six months of their graduation in Australia. This decision has come in order to protect the education sector from scammy switching to lower-level courses by international students. This was done without changing visas according to the recent immigration system review commissioned by Clare O’Neil, Home Affairs Minister. However, the rule doesn’t apply to students already pursuing two courses. 

“The exploitation of the education sector by ‘dodgy’ players will stop now with the new Australian student visa rules”, according to Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil. He also says, “ The changes are important as they will help protect the education industry.” 

The government has introduced a ban on private institutions from student poaching from competitor universities and colleges in Australia by paying off agents. The “fit and proper” system will also be ensured at the highest level. The candidates will be screened based on all of the eligibility criteria to avoid cross-ownership issues between institutes and agents.

“The Universities will keep the option of dual enrollment open only for exceptional reasons from students requesting it,” said Ms Catriona Jackson, Chief Executive of Universities Australia. 

But, the students who were looking to pursue the old system will face the blow. The waiting time of six months for approval of studying two courses post arrival on an Australian student visa is going to be a long wait.

“The measures are a step forward and are welcomed in a positive spirit”, a Monash University spokesperson said. He added, “The hard work of assisting students with everything from student accommodation to providing scholarships and career counselling was in vain. The students will be able to receive the benefits of a world-class education with the new rules.”

Ms. Catriona Jackson added further, saying, “ The decision is welcomed. The ban on commissioning agents is to stop scammers without harming the quality of tertiary education”. 

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