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Frequently-asked questions about studying at Monash University

Can I work while I study?

  • Yes, normally this is allowed, AFTER you commence your course, and after have applied for a permission to work (PTW) visa. You can seek assistance to apply for a permission to work visa by contacting the  International Student Support Unit office  on your campus or by visiting the Department of Immigration and Citizenship website.
  • When permission is granted, you can work up to 20 hours per week during semester and exam periods and full-time during official University vacations periods.

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Can I change my course preference?

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Can I apply for credit transfer?

  • Yes. It is possible to get credit for previous study if you have completed or partially completed tertiary studies at another institution.
  • Credit transfer is sometimes called 'advanced standing' or 'recognition of prior learning'.
  • Complete the Credit Transfer Application form (pdf 88kb).
  • With your application, it is essential to mail certified copies of all your official transcripts or results from previous studies plus copies of subject syllabus.
  • An application for a credit transfer must be made by you, and approved in writing, BEFORE you enrol. Otherwise you may not receive the credit. Obviously, receiving a credit will affect the duration of your study and will be reflected in your electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCOE).
  • Credit transfers are awarded at the discretion of your faculty.

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Can I defer my studies to a later date?

  • Yes, it is possible, but there are a number of details to be aware of. Firstly, your request must be in writing to International Recruitment Services office with all supporting documentation.
  • You are required to submit your request before the semester starts.
  • If you defer for more than 12 months you will be asked for details of any academic or work activities undertaken during that period before we can reassess your offer.
  • If your deferment is approved:
    • A new offer letter and start date will be sent to you.
    • A non-refundable deposit of $3,000 allocated from any prepaid fees will be retained and the balance refunded. The $3,000 retained will be offset against the commencing student fee when you recommence your course.
  • If your deferment application is rejected we will notify you.

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What if I already have a health insurance provider?

  • This is not a problem. If you already have health insurance with a provider other than the Monash preferred supplier, OSHC Worldcare, you need to provide evidence of 12 months health cover to satisfy visa requirements.
  • You will need to produce a receipt of payment when submitting your acceptance documents to Monash and then your electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCOE) can be issued.
  • It is an Australian Government rule that you must maintain suitable health insurance while you are studying in Australia.

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What if I have already paid but cannot start the Monash course?

  • It is possible to receive a refund. A full refund will be given if:
    • Monash University withdraws your offer or is unable to provide your chosen course.
    • You are unable to meet the requirements of your conditional offer.
    • You have paid your fees in advance and are excluded from Monash University through failure to successfully progress through your degree/diploma.
    • The Australian Government refuses to grant you a visa.
    • Illness or disability prevents you from accepting your place at Monash University.
    • Death of a close family member occurs.
  • Full documented evidence is required in each case before an assessment is made on your refund application.
  • A refund will normally be made in the currency of your home country and payable in that country. Exceptions include payment to another Australian educational institution, if you have transferred, or a refund to a third party who had paid fees on your behalf.
  • Refund processing with correct documentation can take approximately 20 working days.
  • If Monash University makes an offer on the basis of incorrect or incomplete information being supplied by you, the offer will be withdrawn and the tuition fees paid are refundable less an administrative fee of 10 per cent.
  • If you withdraw from your course for whatever reason after the Census date (31 March for semester one, 31 August for semester two) you are not eligible for a refund.

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Can I apply for a scholarship?

  • You are automatically assessed for a "Monash University International Scholarship for Excellence" when your application is processed, so there is no need to apply. Monash University will advise you if you are to be offered one of these.
  • Numerous other scholarships are available. And yes, you do need to apply for them.

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Can I enrol in a subject from another Monash faculty?

Yes, this is possible. Many faculties will allow you to study a subject from another faculty. Fees may be higher or lower than those stated in your original offer letter. For more detailed subject information, view Course Finder.

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What if I fail a subject at Monash?

  • You will need to repeat the subject at full cost.
  • If you are enrolled part-time and in your final semester of study, you can repeat a subject only once.

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Can I extend my degree/visa?

  • Yes, on completion of your degree course, you are often able to obtain a extension, eg to do an Honours or Masters course. Normally, different tuition fees apply to postgraduate study.
  • If you need to extend your visa to complete your course or to study other courses in Australia you must submit your visa application BEFORE your visa expires. Check the visa issuing conditions on extensions.
  • International Recruitment Services can give you information about organising a visa extension.
  • It is important to note that obtaining a visa extension is your own personal responsibility.

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Can I take leave of absence (intermission)?

  • Yes, you can defer progress in your degree, BUT you must get your faculty's permission to do this. International students on a student visa will only be given permission for intermission for compassionate grounds such as illness or severe personal circumstances.
  • Applications must have documented support.
  • Once you leave your course, Monash University is obliged by law to inform the Australian immigration authorities of your enrolment status. Normally, when you defer, you are required by the government to leave Australia.

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What if my address changes while I'm in Australia?

  • It is a requirement of your student visa that you notify Monash University of your change of address within seven days of your arrival in Australia and within seven days of any subsequent change of address.
  • If you change your address before enrolment, you should advise International Recruitment Services office in writing.
  • If you change your address after your enrolment you must advise the University or complete a change of address form available from your campus Student Services Office.

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What if I do not want to accept my offer?

If you do not wish to accept your Monash offer, please complete our online form.

Decline Offer Form