Avondale Policies
International Student Policy [S.16]
[S.16]
International students special regulations
Student visas
International students planning to study in Australia need a passport and an Australian student visa. Visa conditions vary from country to country see the DIAC (Department of Immigration and Citizenship) website: http://www.immi.gov.au/students/index.htm
. Applicants from many countries must provide evidence of English language competence. The IELTS test is the preferred English language assessment test for student visa applications. Avondale College s Admissions Office is happy to assist with information and guidance on visa matters.
Academic load
A student visa requires full-time enrolment (24 credit points) in a registered course of study. Student visa holders in undergraduate courses are normally expected to progress through their course at a rate of at least 75% (18 credit points) per semester. Avondale College expects students to enrol in the Christian Studies subjects prescribed for their course (maximum of three). This requirement may be waived where a student has already completed similar subjects at another Seventh-day Adventist higher education institution.
Attendance at classes
Avondale College is required to inform DIAC if an overseas student's attendance at classes is unsatisfactory (less than 80%). Visa cancellation may result. Student visa holders must inform the Academic Office of any change in their ability to attend classes.
Overseas health insurance cover
All student visa holders are required to have Australian Overseas Student Health Cover. Evidence of current cover must be produced before the beginning of each semester as a condition for continuing enrolment at Avondale College.
Change of course or course duration
Avondale College is required to inform DIAC of any change of course or course duration by an international student. Student visa conditions require the written approval of Avondale College to change from one course to another. If a student visa holder finishes a course prior to the scheduled completion date, he/she must either enrol with another institution within 28 days, or obtain a different visa, or leave Australia.
Academic performance
Avondale College is required to notify DIAC if student visa holder fails a subject twice.
Change of address
Student visa holders must inform the Academic Office of any change in their address or telephone number. If an international student fails to satisfy course requirements relating to attendance or satisfactory academic performance, the Academic Office is required to notify the student of this, and that the student must report to the DIAC office named in the notice within 28 days. If the student's address is not up to date and the student does not receive this notice, automatic visa cancellation could occur without the student's knowledge. Such cancellation may not be revoked if it has occurred because the student failed to keep Avondale College informed of his/her address and other contact details. A student visa holder must also notify DIAC at least two working days before any change of address.
Renewal of student visas
Student visas should be renewed at least six weeks before the current visa expires. Failure to renew before the current visa expires will result in deportation.
Deferral of study program
Student visa holders may only defer their studies on the following grounds:
- illness documented by a medical certificate,
- other exceptional compassionate circumstances beyond the control of the student (eg bereavement).
Details
Description:
International Students Special Regulations Updated 17 April 08
Approved By:
Handbook 2007-2008
Approval Date:
January 2007 (updated 17 Apr 08)
Upload Authorised By:
VP (A&R)
Replaces:
Review In:
Dec 2008
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