Look, if you are in Australia and planning to apply for a student visa, the rules changed on 1 January 2025. You now need a Confirmation of Enrolment to apply. A Letter of Offer is no longer enough.
This is not optional. Without a CoE, your application will be invalid. That is it.
What Changed for Student Visa Applications
From 1 January 2025, the Department of Home Affairs requires all onshore student visa applicants to submit a valid Confirmation of Enrolment.
If you submit your application without a CoE:
• The Department will not review it
• Your application will be deemed invalid
• You will not qualify for a Bridging visa to remain lawful while sorting it out
I have seen people caught out by this already. They thought a Letter of Offer would buy them time. It does not. Not anymore.
Why the Government Made This Change
The government wants to ensure genuine commitment to education. Requiring a CoE in advance shows you are serious about studying at a particular institution. It also provides stability to the education sector and reduces speculative applications.
This is part of a broader tightening of student visa requirements that started in 2024.
Exceptions to the CoE Requirement
The CoE requirement may not apply if you are:
• Studying International Relations
• Studying Defence
• A secondary school transfer student
For everyone else, a CoE is mandatory. No exceptions.
What You Should Do Right Now
Here is exactly what you need to do:
1. Secure your enrolment now: Contact your chosen institution and complete enrolment to get your CoE. Do not wait.
2. Watch your visa expiry: If you cannot get a CoE in time, you may have to leave Australia or explore other visa options
3. Understand the restrictions: Visitor visa holders cannot apply for student visas onshore since July 2024. Check whether your current visa allows onshore student visa applications
If your application is refused because you got this wrong, you may have appeal options. But prevention is better than cure.
Do Not Risk an Invalid Application
If you are in Australia and want to study, get your CoE sorted before you apply. An invalid application means wasted time, wasted fees, and potentially becoming unlawful.
Not sure about your options? Book a consultation and we will assess your situation and guide you through the process.
This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice on your specific circumstances, book a consultation.
