The Australian government has set laws to ensure quality education and consumer protection for international students so they have a safe, enjoyable and rewarding study experience in Australia.
These laws, known as the ESOS Framework, includes the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000 and the National Code 2018.

The ESOS Act requires all international student training institutions to be registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). CRICOS registration guarantees that the course and education provider meets the high standards necessary for overseas students.

For information on the ESOS Framework and students’ rights and obligations refer to the ESOS Framework website.

For information about student visa requirements refer to the Department of Home Affairs website: https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/trav/stud

Tuition Protection Service
Australia has an excellent reputation for quality education. However, sometimes an education provider may close altogether, fail to start a course that students are enrolled in or stop offering it part-way through. Closing, failing to start, or stopping a course part way through is called a default.
If your education provider defaults, the TPS may be able to help you. If your education provider has recently closed, please check our closures and defaults listings for specific information about the next steps you need to take.
The TPS Overview – how does it work for international students?
Your education providers stops providing or does not start providing your course as agreed and does not meet their default obligations

1. The TPS contacts you and creates an account for you
2. Register with or log-on to the TPS
3. You provide proof of identity
4. The TPS will assist you to find options for completing your course in Australia or online
   1. If there no suitable alternative courses*, you may apply for a refund of the amount of any ‘unspent’ tuition fees you have paid to your provider. These are any tuition fees you have already paid that are directly related to the course which you haven’t yet received. *Ceasing study may affect your visa. Contact immi.gov.au for assistance.
   2. Any remaining unspent tuition is refunded to you
5. Contact providers and apply for preferred course
6. Accept preferred suitable offer
   1. TPS transfers any unspent pre-paid fees to your new provider.
   2. Any remaining unspent tuition is refunded to you
7. You commence study as agreed

For further information visit the TPS Website