ESOC (Act)

International students studying in Australia are covered by the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) system, which includes:

Until enrolling, you have the right to obtain current and correct information from your institution and its agent about the courses, rates, modes of study, and other information.

Before paying fees, you have the right to sign a written agreement with your organisation that outlines the services to be offered, the fees to be charged, and specifics about course money refunds. Make a copy of your written agreement and keep it secure.

The Tuition Protection Service (TPS) is an international student placement and refund service that is enabled if your institution is unable to teach your course.

The roles of the organisations

The ESOS structure establishes the minimum requirements that Australian education providers must meet when providing education and training to international students. The role of providers in maintaining their education agent network is also outlined in ESOS and the National Code.

These guidelines cover a wide variety of information and resources that you have a right to receive, including:

Orientation and access to support services to help you study and adjust to life in Australia.
Contact details of officers available to help international students.
If you can apply for course credit.
When your enrollment can be deferred, suspended or cancelled.
What your institution’s requirements are for satisfactory progress in the courses you study and what support is available if you are not progressing well.
If attendance will be monitored for your course.
A complaints and appeals process.
 
Your duties and obligations
 

As an overseas student on a student visa, you have responsibilities to:

Satisfy your student visa conditions.
Maintain your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the period of your stay.
Meet the terms of the written agreement with your institution.
Inform your institution if you change your address.
Maintain satisfactory course progress.
If attendance is recorded for your course, follow your institution’s attendance policy.
If you are under 18, maintain your approved accommodation, support and general welfare arrangements.