International students

In response to COVID-19, Australian regulators have agreed to provide additional study flexibility, enabling students to study online in Australia or from outside Australia, without impacting visa requirements or their ability to attain their Australian qualification.  

That means that if you are unable to attend campus and wish to continue studying remotely, you will not be penalised for doing so.    However, your study progression or graduation may be delayed if you are required to complete practical-based learning activities on campus at a later date. 

It is important to think carefully about your personal circumstances if you decide to return to your home country, because the continuing travel restrictions may mean you are unable to return to Australia for some time. 

 If you decide to return to your home country, please contact your Course Coordinator as soon as possible to discuss the impact on your studies. 

If you have specific questions relating to your area of study and the options available to you, please talk to your  Program Manager. 

You’ll find all current information about the Australian Government’s student visa requirements, including temporary changes to requirements in response to COVID-19,  on the Department of Home Affairs student visa webpage.

You may also seek advice from an Education Agent, Migration Agent, or Lawyer who is registered by the Migration Agent Registration Authority (MARA). 

If you're an international higher education or vocational education student, you may reduce their study load or take a leave of absence if you can demonstrate compassionate or compelling reasons, including the impact of COVID-19. These changes may require a visa extension at a future time. 

Before reducing your study load, it is important to seek advice from your School or Course Coordinator about how these changes could impact your progression and whether there will be opportunities to catch up in an accelerated mode later. 

It’s also important to keep comprehensive records of any evidence submitted or agreements made with your School or Course Coordinator about reducing your study load or taking a leave of absence, because you may need this information to extend your student visa and apply for a new electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) in the future. 

If you are under 18 years of age and living in an RMIT-approved accommodation or homestay, your application will be subject to the approval of your parent or guardian.  A leave of absence period without this approval may breach your visa conditions.  

If you are studying on a scholarship, you will need to obtain permission from your scholarship provider. 

You must apply to reduce your study load or to take a leave of absence by your census date to avoid fees or penalties. Find out more about how to apply to reduce your study load or  take a leave of absence. 

Temporary visa holders (including students) in Australia can depart at any time.  However, the Department of Home Affairs advises that there are only very limited circumstances under which they will be permitted to return to Australia.  

Detailed information about travel exemptions for can be found on the Department of Home Affairs website.