Friday, September 26, 2014

CISA Talk 1: The ESOS Act

The ESOS act is an act which not many students know about, but the uni certainly does know a lot about it. Uni's don't explain this act fully or not at all so students have no idea about their rights under Australian law. Claudia explains this issue.

International student. Image by RMIT Newintstudents
A lot of students in universities don't really understand and know what ESOS is about. ESOS is the Education Service for Overseas Students act. This act is a fairly lengthy act sets out the rules and responsibilities of students and their education provider.

So who is an Education provider?
Under the ESOS act they can be a private college, school, University or TAFE that takes students. In 2009 there were some very dodgy ones which left people out in the cold. In 2012 after numerous complaints about these colleges the Tuition Protection service was formed.

So what is this TPS (Tuition Protection Service) and what does it do for me?
The tuition protection service is a service for all international students which protects them from unscrupulous things and can help to get your money back if the college closes. They also can help if the college no longer offers that particular course and you are in the middle of doing that course.
Tuition monies. Image courtesy of RMIT Newintstudents

Written agreements
This is a legal document which states how much you need to pay the uni and what for. It is a contract which you must sign when accepting your offer.


What are my obligations as a student?
As a student you have to maintain 80% class attendance and you also have to maintain satisfactory progress in your course. If for some reason you cannot maintain 80% class attendance you should explain to the uni in writing as to why. Many unis have processes for deferring your course or special consideration. You can extend your studies you just have to tell the uni.

If you do not maintain satisfactory course progress or attendence the uni will ask you to attend a show cause meeting. If however you still fail your courses or not maintained attendance the uni will report you to DIAC via PRISMS (their reporting system). Note: the uni does not cancel a student's visa only DIAC does that.

You also have to pay your fees on time. If you don't and you don't have a good explaination for this again the uni can report you to DIAC.

If you want to change courses you need to wait six months or otherwise you will need a release letter. This may affect your visa. You should discuss this with your student service as they know a lot about this issue.

If you change address you must tell your uni and DIAC. 

Can DIAC kick me out straightaway?
The answer is no. DIAC will give you a chance to explain yourself and if you have good reason then they may let you stay on.

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