Many Nepalese students arrive in Australia having prepaid a full year of tuition fees. Around the six-month mark, some find themselves approached by agents or acquaintances encouraging them to transfer to another course or institution. While a change might seem appealing, it can also lead to unexpected financial losses and visa complications if you’re not careful.
This article explains the key risks and steps to protect yourself before you decide to switch.
Why students are being targeted to change courses
International students who have already paid for a full year of study represent a large sum of “locked-in” fees. Unscrupulous operators sometimes take advantage of this by luring students into new courses or colleges with promises of faster completion or easier content—without explaining the refund rules or credit transfer process.
Understand your contract: refunds may not be guaranteed
Always read your offer letter and enrolment terms. Most Australian providers clearly state that you may not be entitled to a refund of the unused portion of your prepaid tuition fees if you withdraw early.
This means that if you switch courses mid-way:
- You might lose thousands of dollars already paid.
- You could end up repeating units you’ve already studied.
- You might stretch your completion date and risk breaching visa conditions.
If you’re unsure of your rights, TIA Global offers reliable migration and education guidance for international students.
Steps to protect yourself before changing courses
1. Use up your prepaid fees first
If possible, complete the units you’ve already paid for before transferring. This ensures you get full value for the money you’ve already spent.
2. Claim credits for completed subjects
When moving to a new course or institution, formally request credit transfers or recognition of prior learning for units you’ve already completed. This can save you both time and money.
3. Seek genuine, trustworthy advice
Talk to your university’s student support team or a qualified, registered migration or education agent who has no financial stake in moving you. For student visa and course-change guidance, visit our Student Visa information page for more details.
The benefits of careful planning
By waiting until you’ve used your prepaid fees and claiming your credits:
- You protect your finances.
- You maintain a clear study timeline, which supports your visa status.
- You reduce stress and disruption to your education.
Final thoughts
Switching courses can be a positive step if your interests have changed—but only when done strategically. Don’t let high-pressure tactics or incomplete information cost you your hard-earned money.
If you need reliable guidance tailored to your circumstances, TIA Global has dedicated advisers to help you understand your options and protect your student visa status.
