Frequently Asked Questions

Where is RMIT?

RMIT University located in Melbourne, Australia. We have a large central campus in the centre of Melbourne and smaller campuses in Brunswick and Bundoora. RMIT also has offshore campuses in Vietnam and delivers program through leading Universities in the world, offering students global study and research opportunities.

Why choose RMIT?

RMIT University is one of Australia’s original and leading educational institutions, producing some of Australia’s most employable graduates. As an innovative, global university of technology and design, with its heart in the city of Melbourne, RMIT has an international reputation for excellence in work-relevant education and high quality research, and engagement with the needs of industry and community.

With more than 70,000 students studying at RMIT campuses in Melbourne, in Vietnam, online, and at partner institutions throughout the world, the University is one of the largest in the country. It has built a worldwide reputation for excellence in professional and vocational education and research. A vibrant alumni community now stretches across more than 130 countries.

RMIT is also a member of the Australian Technology Network (ATN). The ATN is a coalition of five large universities across Australia that share a distinction of collaborating and working with industry and technology to deliver career-driven programs in all disciplines. These universities are united with one vision for higher education, research and development capabilities.

What type of programs does RMIT offer?

Programs are offered at pre-university, TAFE (certificate, diploma, advanced diploma), bachelor degree, double degree, honours, graduate diploma, masters by coursework, masters by research, professional doctorate and doctorate by research level. More program information is available online.

Are RMIT programs recognised internationally?

RMIT qualifications are highly regarded, both nationally and internationally, by leading industry bodies across all fields. RMIT programs are developed in close consultation with industry to ensure that graduates are work-ready and highly sought after by employers. RMIT University was ranked 86th in the world for employment outcomes for students by the 2010 QS World University rankings. Check the RMIT Alumni site for past students’ achievements.

Am I an international student?

You are considered an international student if you are:

• Not an Australian citizen or permanent resident
• Not on a temporary protection visa
• Not a citizen of New Zealand

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What are the academic entry requirements?

Academic entry requirements vary depending on the program. You must satisfy all entry requirements including academic, English and extra requirements before being admitted to the program of your choice. View entry requirements for international students.

What are the English language entry requirements?

English entry requirements at RMIT are generally set by study level (there are a couple of exceptions to this). You must satisfy English language requirements before being admitted to the program of your choice. View English language entry requirements for international students. Some students may be exempted from providing English proficiency tests – refer to the English equivalency website.

Do all students need to provide evidence of English language proficiency?

All applicants are required to demonstrate English proficiency suitable for the program that they are applying. Typically this is done through providing results of approved English tests. If you have studied at an institution where the language of instruction is English you may be eligible for an English waiver - – refer to the English equivalency website.

What are the application closing dates?

There are no specific closing dates. We advise you to send your application as early as possible as:

• Some programs meet quotas very quickly.
• Student visas can take up to 6 months to process if you are from a level 3, 4 or 5 passport country.
• Some programs have special entry requirements which must be assessed before you application will be processed, for example an interview or portfolio may be required.
• Some programs require Supplementary forms to be filled in.
• You can apply as long as there are seats available in the program of your choice.

How do I apply for a research application?

The process of applying as an international research candidate at RMIT is as follows:

• Identify an area of research that is of interest to you and contact a suitable research supervisor. Find a research supervisor.
• Develop a research proposal to submit with your application and send it to the supervisor for approval.
• Once the proposal is approved, submit an application form to RMIT International, including evidence of correspondence between yourself and your proposed research supervisor, your research proposal and certified copies/original transcripts and statements of academic completion for all studies previously undertaken. Refer to the How to apply website for international students.

What happens after I have applied?

Your application will be assessed against the academic and English requirements for your preferred program. After your application is assessed, you will receive a letter advising you of the outcome of your application. If your application is successful, all payment, enrolment and confirmation of offer details will be included with this letter. A conditional offer will state that you will be accepted into a program once you have met particular requirements, for example, improved your English language level.

If I submit a scanned application do I need to send it by post as well?

We will require certified copies of your transcripts and completion certificates. If you are able to scan colour copies please do so, otherwise we will require certified copies to be sent by post. Alternatively, if you are an international student in Melbourne, bring both the originals and photocopies to the Info Corner, our staff will certify and receive the photocopies.

How will I find out about the outcome of my application?

You will be notified of the outcome of your application either by email if you have applied directly, or through your agent.

What if my application is not successful?

If your application is not successful for your first preference we will recommend an alternative pathway into your chosen area of study.

Can I gain advanced standing/credit for past studies?

If you have completed prior studies or have significant work experience in the area that you are applying to study in you may be eligible to apply for credit exemptions. Credit exemptions are assessed on a case by case basis. If you are applying for credit exemptions you will need to provide evidence of prior studies such as course syllabi, certified transcripts and/or professional references.

Can the application fee be waived?

The application fee can be waived in certain circumstances, for example if you are an RMIT student or graduate. Please contact RMIT International for further information.

Can I apply for packaged programs?

Yes, all students are able to apply for an appropriate packaged program. A packaged program is a preliminary program followed by a principal program of study. An example of a package is: an English language program; followed by a Foundation Studies program; followed by a Bachelor Degree.

How do I defer my offer/acceptance?

You will need to complete a Deferral of Offer/Acceptance form and email it to the address listed on the form or submit it at the Info Corner.

How do I apply for another program?

You will need to complete a Change of Preference form and email it to the address listed on the form or submit it at the Info Corner.

What if my application is not successful?

Often applications are unsuccessful because entry requirements are not met. RMIT can advise you on appropriate study levels and other options that can lead you to your preferred career.

What scholarships are available for international students?

RMIT offers a range of scholarships to current and commencing international students across all fields of study. Scholarships include financial support for students from diverse backgrounds, rewards for academic excellence and full scholarships for research students. For information on the scholarships offered to international students, please refer to the Scholarship website

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What should I do after I receive an offer?

You will need to formally accept your offer in order to secure a place in the program. You must submit payment receipt and a fully completed Offer Acceptance Form. You should also submit a certified copy of your passport. For further information, please refer to How to accept your offer website.

Can I defer my offer?

Yes, you are able to defer your offer for up to one year, provided that an appropriate intake is available. To defer your offer you will need to complete a Deferral of Offer form and submit to RMIT International. A new offer will be issued to you once we receive the form.

If you are unable to commence your program in the intake that you have been offered we advise that you defer your offer for a later intake.

Where do I send my acceptance documents?

You can either submit your acceptance documents to us in person (RMIT Building 22, 330 Swanston Street, Melbourne) or send them via email to isacceptances@rmit.edu.au

Can I accept a conditional offer?

Yes, however you must read the refund policy carefully before accepting your offer.

I have packaged offers. Do I have to accept all of them?

You can accept your future offers at a later stage providing the programs are still open. By accepting all offers in a package at the same time you are able to apply for a visa that covers the full duration of all your programs, saving the need to reapply each time you accept a new program in the package. The offer that you accept also affects the visa subclass you are applying for.

Do I have to pay for Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)?

Yes, if you are applying for a student visa, you must arrange health cover for the full duration of your visa. This is a requirement of the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC). For further details, please refer to the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) website.

I already have OSHC. Can I top up my current policy?

Yes, providing your cover is with Medibank Private we are able to top your OSHC up. Please contact us with your policy number and expiry date, so we can quote you the correct amount to pay.

Do I have to pay for OSHC through RMIT?

No, you can pay through another approved provider. Please complete the details of your policy (if available) on the Offer Acceptance Form.

I am on a bridging/spouse/temporary resident visa, do I need to pay OSHC?

No. You only need to arrange OSHC if you are applying for a student visa.

Is there an acceptance deadline?

There are no official deadlines for acceptance, however places are limited and programs will close once they have no remaining places. You are therefore encouraged to accept your offer(s) as early as possible to avoid disappointment. You also need to ensure that you allow enough time to apply for a student visa, organise flights and accommodation so that you are ready to commence study at the start of Semester.

Can I send the Offer Acceptance Form first to hold my place, and pay later?

No. Whenever payment is required, Offer Acceptance Forms must always be received with payment evidence.

Can I pay the deposit in instalments?

No. You can pay using multiple payment methods but you must send evidence of the full payment at the time of accepting.

What payment methods are accepted?

EFTPOS (in person only), credit card (Visa or Mastercard), bank cheque and telegraphic transfer. See the Offer Acceptance Form or refer to the How to accept your offer website for specific details

What currencies can I pay in?

All payments must be received in Australian dollars.

How long do I need to wait for my eCOE?

We aim to issue eCOEs within two working days of receipt of all required acceptance documentation. If an eCOE has not been issued, the reason will be listed on the acceptance letter.

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How do I apply for my visa?

You will need to apply for your visa directly through the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) by contacting 131881 (Australia only). RMIT does not assist students to apply for visas however RMIT does issue you the electronic confirmation of enrolment (eCOE) that you need as part of the student visa application.

How do I get my eCOE?

If you are commencing a new program, you will receive your eCOE after you have accepted your offer and paid the requested deposit. If you are a current student who needs to extend their program duration and apply for a new student visa you need to apply for your eCOE through RMIT International. The form and instructions are available at the Visa renewal process webpage.

Will I get my money back if my visa is rejected?

Yes, if evidence from DIAC is provided. Please refer to the RMIT refund policy

I am on a bridging visa and I want to study part-time. How do I apply as a part-time student? How much will I need to pay?

Please submit a full application as normal. The additional documents we require for a part-time application are:

• a copy of your passport
• a copy of your current visa indicating that you have full study and work rights
• a letter or email stating the reason you wish to apply to study part time, and how many courses you intend to study per semester. If you also wish to apply for a reduced deposit, please state this. The deposit is calculated on a pro-rata basis.

Can I convert my tourist or business class visa to a student visa while I am in Australia?

Students from country assessment level 1 only are usually permitted to convert to a student visa in Australia. However, the decision is entirely up to Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC). For more information please refer to Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC).

Will the Australian Embassy accept a faxed copy of my electronic confirmation of enrolment (eCOE)?

Yes. Australian Diplomatic Posts can access this electronically. This form is submitted electronically via the Provider Registration and International Students Management System (PRISMS) which the Australian Diplomatic Posts and DIAC offices have access to.

If I am under 18 years of age, will I be permitted to study in Australia?

Yes, if you have approved Guardianship arrangements in place. Your student visa will not be granted until these arrangements are approved. For more information please visit the Accommodation and welfare for students under 18 or the Department of Immigration and Citizenship's website.

What do I do if I change my address?

If you have condition 8533 labelled on your student visa, you must notify RMIT University of your new address within 7 days of arrival. You need to fill out the Change of Address form (PDF 44kb) and submit it to an RMIT Hub.

If you change address, you must notify RMIT within 7 days of moving to the new address. Fill out the Change of Address form (PDF 44kb) and submit it to an RMIT Hub.

If you have condition 8506 labelled in your visa, you must notify the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) and RMIT at least two working days before you move to your new address.

As a student visa holder, can I enrol into any program at RMIT University?

No. As an international student visa holder, you can only enrol in programs that have a CRICOS code. This is a Government accredited code. For a list of CRICOS-registered program, please go to the international student webpage for programs and fees.

Can I enrol in an online course of study?

Yes. However, there are limitations:

• in a compulsory study period, you must be enrolled in at least one face-to-face course; and
• your total program cannot have more than 25% of online and distance courses.

For more information, please visit the International Students and the National Code webpage

Can I change my program after I have enrolled at RMIT University?

Yes. You must apply to change your program, and this must be approved by the Head of Department/School. You can apply by filling out the Change of Program form (PDF 74KB 1p) and submitting it to RMIT International If you change education sectors (for example from a bachelor degree to a TAFE diploma), you will be required to submit a new visa application. For further information please contact the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) or RMIT International.

Can I withdraw from a course and re-enrol in summer/winter school?

Summer/winter school courses are subject to availability. You must find out if the course will be offered before altering your enrolment. You must complete your program within the expected duration, so you cannot withdraw from courses if this means you will not complete on time.

However, you can enrol in summer/winter school courses to repeat a failed course or to finish your program more quickly. Approval to study a summer/winter school course is given by your Program Coordinator. All enquiries should be referred to your Academic Program Coordinator.

Can I repeat a course/subject more than once?

Yes, subject to program structure and rules. Talk to your Program Co-ordinator for more details.

Can I leave RMIT and change to another education institution?

You must remain enrolled at RMIT for at least six calendar months in your principal program unless you are eligible to apply for a release letter. For more information please refer to the International Students and National Code webpage.

How do I apply for a release letter?

You must have an offer letter and a personal statement plus evidence of a compassionate/compelling circumstance. Release letters take up to 10 working days to assess and process. For more information please refer to the International Students and National Code webpage.

Can I underload or study part time after I’ve enrolled?

International students on a student visa are required to complete their study within the expected program duration as stated on their offer letters and eCOEs. You may seek written School approval for a reduced study load in a semester only if compassionate/compelling or academic circumstances apply. You cannot just drop courses without School approval.

Do I have to leave Australia if I cancel my enrolment or RMIT cancels my enrolment?

If you cancel your enrolment or RMIT cancels your enrolment (eg exclusion, failure to re-enrol), then RMIT University will report this to DIAC almost immediately and you will need to leave Australia within 28 days. RMIT is not permitted to delay sending these reports so you must seek approval from Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) to stay in Australia after this time.

If you cancel your enrolment or RMIT cancels your enrolment and then you enrol at another education provider, please notify the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) for visa advice.

I want to apply for Permanent Residency (PR), can RMIT help me?

No. RMIT University is not legally permitted to advice on PR applications. Please contact DIAC for further advice about PR.

How can I obtain more information on Australian Government regulations relating to International Students?

The Australian Government's legal requirements of education providers and international students are contained in two key documents:

• The Education Services for Overseas Student (ESOS) Act 2000
• The National Code of Practice

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Can RMIT pick me up from the airport?

Yes, if you are an international student arriving to commence your program of study at RMIT, please complete the Arrival Services form.

How do I find accommodation?

Most RMIT University students choose one of four accommodation options:

• Rent your own apartment, flat or house
• Share an apartment, flat or house
• Live in a private hostel
• Homestay / full board.

RMIT International can arrange temporary hostel accommodation before you arrive in Melbourne. The RMIT Housing Advisory Service also has housing advisers at each campus. These university staff will help you look for suitable permanent accommodation after your arrival.

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What are RMIT University’s semester dates?

RMIT has two main semesters in the academic year. Semester dates are:

• Semester 1: Starts in early march
• Semester 2: Starts in mid July

You will need to arrive on the enrolment date specified on your offer letter. Enrolment is typically held 2 weeks prior to the official start of semester. For detailed enrolment information, refer to the registration and enrolment website

What are the dates for semester breaks?

Please consult the RMIT Academic Calendar.

How and where do I enrol?

Please refer to the registration and enrolment website for this information.

Where can I find the timetable?

At the time of enrolment you will be shown how to access the timetabling system. This information is not available beforehand.

Can I enrol online, or can a friend or relative enrol on my behalf?

No. If you are a newly commencing international student, you must attend the necessary registration and enrolment sessions in person. Proxy enrolments are not permitted for newly commencing international students.

I’m an RMIT student? Do I have to attend registration and enrolment in person again?

Yes, for every new program you enrol in (including a Change of Program), you must register and enrol in person as proxy enrolments are not permitted for international students.

What should I bring to registration?

Please bring your:

• Passport and visa
• Firm (not conditional) acceptance letter
• eCOE (if issued)

What should I bring to the enrolment session?

Please bring the items listed above. If you have applied for exemptions, please also bring original/certified copies of the documentation (academic transcripts, syllabi etc).

How can I find out which courses have I been granted credit exemptions for?

Please contact rewint@rmit.edu.au. Please note that credits are not confirmed until the time of enrolment, at which point you will officially apply for Recognition of Prior Learning.

Can I enrol late in my ELICOS program?

This will depend on the length of your ELICOS program, and whether you requested it or require it. Please contact rewint@rmit.edu.au to check. If you are permitted to enrol late, you will not need a late letter - simply take your ELICOS acceptance letter directly to RMIT English Worldwide (REW).

Can I enrol late in my RMIT program?

If you are unable to attend your scheduled enrolment, please contact RMIT International (+61 9925 5156) or email isu@rmit.edu.au Please note that you may not be permitted to enrol if you arrive later than the last official enrolment date, and if you are permitted to enrol late, you may have a limited choice of timetable. Please refer to the registration and enrolment website.

What are the Orientation details?

Student Wellbeing Advisory Service organises orientation programs that will help you succeed at RMIT and adjust to life in Australia. Orientation program details are generally posted online one month prior to the commencement of the major intakes.

Can I speak to current students or students from a specific country or a specific program?

Our facebook and twitter pages provide you with the opportunity to meet and interact with currently enrolled RMIT students, and ask questions about study and student life at RMIT. For enrolled students, RMIT’s Student Wellbeing Advisory Service runs the Mates program.

Can I change my program after I have enrolled at RMIT University?

Yes. You must apply to change your program, and this must be approved by the Head of Department/School. You can apply by filling out the Change of Program form, getting the form approved by the School or College and submitting it to RMIT International If you change education sectors (for example from a bachelor degree to a TAFE diploma), you will be required to submit a new visa application. For further information please contact the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) or RMIT International.

Can I enrol in an online course of study?

Yes. However, there are limitations:

• in a compulsory study period, you must be enrolled in at least one face-to-face course; and
• your total program cannot have more than 25% of online and distance courses.

For more information, please visit the International Student and the National Code website.

If you are interested in completing an RMIT qualification online please refer to Open Universities Australia.

Can I withdraw from a course and re-enrol in summer/winter school?

Summer/winter school courses are subject to availability. You must find out if the course will be offered before altering your enrolment. You must complete your program within the expected duration, so you cannot withdraw from courses if this means you will not complete on time.

However, you can enrol in summer/winter school courses to repeat a failed course or to finish your program more quickly. Approval to study a summer/winter school course is given by your Program Coordinator. All enquiries should be referred to your Academic Program Coordinator.

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What will living costs be?

For information on typical living expenses and program fees, please visit the Money you’ll need website.

Do the tuition fees include books, accommodation etc?

No. For further details, please visit the Other expenses website.

Can I work during my studies?

All international student visas have condition 8101 (‘No Work’) attached. Visa holders with this condition can apply for permission to work only after they have commenced their studies. For more information please visit the New permission to work arrangement for student visa holders website.

Can my dependants work while I am studying in Australia?

Yes. Contact the Department of Immigration and Citizenship for more information.

Do I need a tax file number and how do I apply for one?

Yes, it is recommended. You will need a tax file number for banking and if you get a job. An application form can be picked up from at any Australia Post Office.

Can I work in Australia after I complete my program?

No. Overseas students who study in Australia are granted a student visa on the basis that they are seeking temporary entry for study purposes, have the financial ability to meet the likely costs of studying, and will leave on completion of their course and before their student visa expires.

Exceptions: Students who seek employment in Australia after graduation will need to find an Australian employer to sponsor them. For more information contact the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) or your nearest Australian diplomatic post.

Does RMIT provide childcare facilities?

RMIT has two childcare centres that are available to staff and students. For further information, please refer to the Childcare website

Is my child able to attend School in Australia while I am studying at RMIT?

International students studying Undergraduate, TAFE, Postgraduate (Coursework) will need to pay for their children’s education whilst they are in Australia. However, dependents of international postgraduate research students receive full exemption from tuition fees in government primary and secondary schools; see Primary and Secondary School fee exemptions

For further information, please refer to the Victorian Government Schools for international students.

What special help is there for international students?

• RMIT International provides help and advice on health insurance, obtaining your visa, airport pickup, accommodation and program information.
• Student Wellbeing Advisory Service provides support and advice for international students.
• International students are provided with information to help them before they arrive.
• Faculty and department student advisers provide information, advice and assistance. They can also help you get in touch with other international students.
• Check online for more information about RMIT support and services.

Where are classes held?

RMIT Melbourne has campuses in the City, and in the outer suburbs of Brunswick and Bundoora. To check which campuses the program you wish to study will be held at, please visit the Programs and Fees for international website

How are coursework programs delivered?

All RMIT University lectures and classes are taught in English. Depending on the subject, classes may be taught in a combination of lectures or seminars, tutorials (discussion groups), and practical/laboratory sessions. Assessment of students’ work may include written assignments, seminar presentations, design folios and examinations. The number of class hours varies between each program. Generally classes are held during the day with some programs, particularly at postgraduate level, held in the evening. For more information check the studying in Australia page.

How are research programs delivered?

Research candidates at RMIT work closely with academic Supervisors to develop and guide their independent research at both a Masters and PhD level. Research programs are largely self directed and require the candidate to undertake independent study in close consultation with their Supervisor(s) and School.

When will I get my student ID card?

The card will be issued to you by The Hub once you have enrolled.

When will I get my Medibank membership card?

If you have paid for OSHC through RMIT, please visit the Medibank website where you can update your postal address and register to receive your card.

Where can I get more information?

If you have more questions about becoming an international student at RMIT, contact RMIT International.

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Is attendance monitored?

Attendance of international students is monitored in Pre-University programs like Foundation Studies, ELICOS programs and VCE.

Is there a minimum attendance requirement?

Students in these programs are required to attend a minimum of 80% of scheduled contact hours. This is a condition of international student visas issued by the Australian Government. Other programs such as TAFE may also have attendance requirements specifically for the program, but attendance requirements for student visa purposes only relate to Foundation, ELICOS and VCE.

What happens if I am a Foundation Studies / ELICOS / VCE student and my attendance falls below 80%?

Your Program Coordinator will attempt to contact you, either by phone or email.

You will be required to provide reasons and evidence for non-attendance. You may also be required to enter into a negotiated plan of action so that you do not go beneath the 80%. If you do not respond to the correspondence or fail to comply with the plan of action, the School will forward advice to the Student Visa Coordinator at RMIT International.

RMIT International will then inform you of its intention to report information about your breach of the student visa to DIAC. You will have 20 working days to appeal with evidence. If you do not access the appeals process, or the appeals finding is against you, RMIT will make its report to DIAC and send you a formal letter on behalf of DIAC called a Non-Compliance Notice which may result in the cancellation of your student visa. You will have 28 days to respond to that notice to DIAC (not to RMIT).

What happens if I am away for more than five consecutive days?

You should contact your Program Coordinator immediately. You may be required to provide documentary evidence such as medical certificates. Approval must be attained from your Program Coordinator for any absences exceeding five consecutive days.

Can I do an Open Universities Australia (OUA) course?

No. International students can only study at education providers that are listed on the CRICOS register.

While studying at RMIT, can I study at another educational institution?

Yes. You may wish to undertake a course or program in addition to your study at RMIT. However you must still study full-time at RMIT and complete your RMIT program within the expected duration.

As part of my study RMIT, can I study one or two courses at another University?

This is called cross-institutional study and can only be approved when your School has formal arrangements in place with the other educational provider. Refer to the Current Student’s cross-institutional webpages or ask your Program Coordinator.

Can I enrol in more than one program?

Yes. You may wish to undertake a course or program in addition to your study at RMIT. However the second program must be a CRICOS registered program, you must still study full-time in your principal program plus complete your principal program within the expected duration on your eCOE. Secondary programs will only be approved in exceptional circumstances with the approval of your school.

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What academic progress must I make to meet student visa requirements?

The Australian Government expects international students to progress through their studies at a pace that will ensure completion within the duration stated on your eCOE.

For example, if your program requires three years of full-time study, your eCOE and visa will have been granted for three academic years and you will be expected to complete your program within this time period.

What is 'unsatisfactory progress'?

The Australian Government's requirements state that international students' academic progress may be regarded as unsatisfactory if it appears likely that the program will not be successfully completed within the minimum standard time due to the failure of a number of courses.

RMIT University has specific policies governing unsatisfactory academic progress as well as intervention strategies to help you improve.

What will happen if my academic progress is “unsatisfactory”

RMIT will notify you if it determines your progress to be unsatisfactory and you will be given opportunities to discuss and implement improvement strategies.

If progress continues to be unsatisfactory you will be asked to “show cause” as to why you should be permitted to stay enrolled at RMIT. If you are unable to provide sufficient evidence as to why you have not progressed and how you will improve, or you do not respond to the correspondence RMIT sends you about your progress, RMIT may decide to “exclude” you.

What will happen if I am excluded from RMIT for unsatisfactory progress?

RMIT International will be notified of your exclusion. As this is a breach of your student visa, RMIT is required to report this to DIAC. RMIT will make its report to DIAC and send you a formal letter on behalf of DIAC called a Non-Compliance Notice which may result in the cancellation of your student visa. You will have 28 days to respond to that notice to DIAC (not to RMIT).

What should I do if I think my academic progress might be 'unsatisfactory'?

You should contact your Program Coordinator or your School or Departmental International Student Advisor to discuss your progress as soon as possible. Do not ignore correspondence you receive from RMIT about your academic progress.

Assistance and advice is also available from staff in the following areas:

• Student Wellbeing Advisory Service
• Study and Learning Centre
• Current Students Services

Cancellation of Enrolment

If you want to leave RMIT after you have enrolled, you must formally cancel your enrolment by the prescribed dates otherwise you may have to still pay fees. Refer to the Current Student’s website for more details.

RMIT may also decide to cancel or suspend your enrolment for the following reasons:

• Unsatisfactory academic progress, as defined in RMIT's policies
• Misconduct, as defined in RMIT’s policies
• Failure to comply with any applicable standards of conduct, statutes, regulations, policies and procedures of the University which provide for enrolment deferral, suspension or cancellation as an outcome of such failure to comply.

Can I defer my studies?

You can only defer the start of your program. If you have not yet enrolled, and you want to defer, please visit the Deferring your program webpage

Once you have enrolled and you want to take a break from your studies, you need to apply for a Leave of Absence.

Can I have a break from studies or take a Leave of Absence?

Yes you may take one or more semester’s break if you meet specific circumstances. For more information, please visit the International Student and the National Code webpage

Can I cancel my enrolment and study somewhere else?

You are restricted from transferring to another Australian education provider if you have not finished 6 calendar months of study in your principal program. (If you are here to study a single program, that program is the principal program. If you are here to study more than one program, the principal program is the final program of a packaged offer.)

If you want to transfer before you have done 6 calendar months of study in the principal program, you have to apply to RMIT International for a Release Letter. For more information, please refer to the International Student and the National Code webpage

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If I finish my program early, can I stay in Australia until my visa expires?

No. If you finish your program early, RMIT University will report this to DIAC almost immediately after results are released and you will need to leave Australia within 28 days. If you wish to stay longer you must seek approval from the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC).

Can I renew my student visa to stay in Australia for graduation?

If your visa has expired you will not be able to get a new student visa to attend graduation. You will also not be able to stay in Australia to attend graduation if you have been reported to DIAC for completing your program earlier than expected. If you want to stay in Australia for graduation you must contact DIAC to apply for a new type of visa.

Can I apply for a tourist visa after completing my program?

You must contact the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC).

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Can I work in Australia while I am studying?

All international student visas have condition 8101 (‘No Work’) attached.

Visa holders with this condition can apply for permission to work only after they have commenced their studies. For more information, please refer to the New permission to work arrangement for stude

Can my dependants work while I am studying in Australia?

Yes. Contact the Department of Immigration and Citizenship for more information.

Do I need a tax file number and how do I apply for one?

Yes, it is recommended. You will need a tax file number for banking and if you get a job. An application form can be picked up from at any Australia Post Office.

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Can I study overseas on an exchange program as part of my RMIT degree?

If you are an international student studying at RMIT, you may be able to undertake a student exchange with another university for one or two semesters, which would be coordinated through Education Abroad Office. We have agreements with many universities around the world, and partnerships with several overseas institutions.

Can I study in Australia for only one or two semesters?

Yes, you may be able to as either a Study Abroad or Exchange Student. See Education Abroad Office for further information.

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