Changing Universities International FAQs
If you're a current international student looking to change to CQUniversity, our frequently asked questions (FAQs) below may help answer your questions about the process, scholarships, credit transfer, fees and more.
Alternatively, you can register your interest to get more information or speak to our friendly adviser.
How do I apply?
Apply directly online through iStart. If you need more information on how to apply, please visit our Apply page.
How long will my application take to be assessed?
If you are applying for credit assessment as part of your application, International Admissions will also review this during assessment of your application. Applications without credit assessment generally take less than 5 business days while applications with credit assessment may take an additional 5-10 business days.
Will I receive the same amount of credit recognised by my current institution?
You can apply for credit during the application process. Instructions are provided on the relevant screen in iStart during the application. Your transfer credit will be assessed and may vary due to the varying course structures for different degrees across universities. A database of existing credit precedents exist within the CQUni Credit Calculator however, please note the calculator is not exhaustive and you should submit your credit application regardless in your application.
I’ve already studied a year at my current institution. Can I receive credit for units/subjects studied?
Please see response above.
What should I do first if I wish to change my institution?
Refer to the Study in Australia website for detailed information regarding changing your course, level of qualification or institution. If you have an authorised recruitment agent, your agent can assist with further information. CQUniversity authorised agents are listed on our Find an Agent page. Please submit an application to CQUniversity and our International Admissions team will advise on any documentation required.
Will transferring to another institution impact my student visa?
If accepted to CQUniversity, you will be issued with a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), which is required to lodge your student visa application for study in Australia. If you change your level of qualification, you may need to apply for a new student visa as your visa subclass may change. Please refer to the Department of Home Affairs for further information.
Do I need a release letter from my current institution?
If you have not completed six months of your principal course of study, you will need to contact your current institution to apply for a letter of release. You will require a letter of offer from CQUniversity in order to apply for a letter of release from your current institution. Once you’ve applied to study at CQUniversity, International Admissions will assess your application and if a letter of release is required, you will be issued an offer conditional upon obtaining the letter of release from your current institution.
Can I apply for a scholarship and what does the scholarship offer?
You may be eligible for the International Merit Scholarship. The scholarship value ranges between 15% to 25% depending on your previous academic performance or your English language proficiency.
My grade average is not published as a percentage. What is the grade point average (GPA) out of 4 or 7 I need to have obtained to be eligible for the scholarship?
Our International Enquiries team will be able to provide advice on this. Please email international-enquiries@cqu.edu.au or call 03 9616 0606.
I will be moving city/state to study with CQUniversity. Does CQUniversity offer a travel or relocation bursary to assist me?
CQUniversity does not offer a travel or relocation bursary to students.
I am struggling in my studies at my current institution and failing some units/subjects. Will I still receive an offer from CQUniversity?
We understand everyone’s circumstance may be different. We recommend you submit an application to CQUniversity with a strong Statement of Purpose for assessment by International Admissions and attach all supporting documentation including evidence of enrolment. Guidelines for writing a Statement of Purpose can be obtained from International Admissions at the time of application if required.
I am currently excluded at another institution. Will I still receive an offer from CQUniversity?
Students currently excluded or restricted from study at other institutions must meet those restriction periods first in order to be eligible to meet entry requirements to CQUniversity. If you are unsure if you are eligible, please submit an application to CQUniversity and International Admissions will assess your application.
Do I have to complete a Statement of Purpose?
A Statement of Purpose is not required from all applicants. International Admissions will advise at the time of application if this is required.
I am a tourist visa holder in Australia. Can I apply onshore (within Australia) to CQUniversity?
If you are onshore, you can apply to study at CQUniversity if you indicate you will lodge your student visa offshore. In this case, we will consider to assess and issue an offer based on offshore assessment guidelines. We will not issue a COE if you apply onshore and insist on lodging your student visa onshore.
How much deposit is required to accept my offer and receive a Confirmation of Enrolment?
If you are applying onshore (currently in Australia), you will be required to pay A$8,000 and the cost of your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your course(s), if you require it through CQUniversity. If you are applying offshore (outside of Australia), please refer to your Letter of Offer for the required deposit to receive your Confirmation of Enrolment.
Do you have a payment plan for paying tuition fees?
Typically, students must pay the balance of the term fees by Census Date each term. Term dates can be found in our Academic Calendars.
CQUniversity offers limited payment plans for continuing students who face financial hardships or extenuating circumstances. To be eligible for a payment plan, you will need to meet certain criteria:
- You are ineligible for Commonwealth assistance e.g. International and/or Non-Award students.
- You are a continuing Higher Education or Research student. First-term, brand-new students are not eligible.
- You can demonstrate genuine financial hardship or unforeseen extenuating circumstances with supporting documentation.
- A deposit (50% of the terms of the tuition fee) will be required for the payment plan which must be paid to CQUniversity prior to submission of the form.
- Regular repayments will be required.
- International students are required to enquire on campus in order to receive the document required to apply.
- Collection agreement applications for student fees must be submitted on campus no later than the due date listed on the application form (this is usually prior to census date).
Is there a financial check/declaration required by CQUniversity on my access to funds?
In some cases, you or your agent will be required to complete a Financial Declaration Form. International Admissions will advise at the time of application if this is required.
What incentives or discounts are available to international students?
If you’re a new student, you may be eligible for the International Merit Scholarship, which is valued between 15% to 25% depending on your previous academic performance or English Language proficiency.
