Australia Bans Student Transfer Commissions 2026 — What It Means for You
Bottom Line Up Front: Yes — you can still transfer to a new school in Australia after March 31, 2026. The ban only stops education agents from earning commissions on your transfer. You are free to contact schools directly, get a release letter, and move on your own terms.
What Changed on March 31, 2026?
From 31 March 2026, the Australian Government banned education agents from receiving commissions for onshore student transfers. The policy — part of broader reforms to the education agent model — means agents can no longer be paid a "transfer fee" or commission when they help a student already in Australia move from one provider to another before completing their principal course.
This is a significant shift. For years, the agent-commission model created a financial incentive for agents to move students between providers — sometimes before it was genuinely in the student's interest. That incentive is now gone.
What this does NOT mean:
- It does NOT stop you from transferring schools.
- It does NOT make transferring illegal.
- It does NOT mean you must stay with your current provider.
What it DOES mean:
- Agents have less financial reason to actively encourage you to transfer.
- You have more reason to research and choose your own path.
- Schools that accept direct enquiries are now easier to find and approach.
Can You Still Transfer If You Are Within 6 Months of Your Principal Course?
Yes — and this rule has not changed.
Under Standard 7 of the National Code 2018, if you have been studying with your principal course provider for less than six months, you generally need a release letter before you can enrol with a new provider. This applies regardless of whether March 31, 2026 has passed.
The six-month rule exists to prevent "course hopping" purely for visa extensions. But it has always included an exception: if your current provider ceases to be registered, if you have a genuine complaint, or if there are other special circumstances, you may be able to transfer earlier with evidence.
If you are past the six-month mark, you generally do not need a release letter — you can apply directly to a new provider and the new CoE will be issued.
Step-by-Step: How to Transfer Schools Without an Agent in 2026
Step 1: Decide Why You Want to Transfer
Before doing anything, be clear with yourself. Are you transferring because your course is not meeting your expectations, you found a better option elsewhere, or your circumstances changed? Having a clear reason matters if your current provider asks for it, and it will help you avoid making a hasty decision.
Step 2: Research New Providers Directly
Without an agent, you use the same tools employers use — Google, provider websites, and official course databases like training.gov.au and the CRICOS register.
Key things to check for each potential new provider:
- CRICOS registration (for international students on a visa)
- Course start dates and location
- Whether they are currently accepting direct enrolments
- Their process for international student transfers
Clinton Institute accepts direct enquiries for transfers. You can enquire at: Transfer Your Course to Australia
Step 3: Get Your Release Letter (If Needed)
If you are within six months of your principal course, contact your current provider and request a release letter in writing.
Your provider must consider your request and respond in writing. They can refuse, but only on specific grounds — for example, if transferring would breach your enrolment conditions or if you have outstanding fees.
If they refuse and you believe the refusal is unreasonable, you can seek advice from the Overseas Students Ombudsman — a free dispute resolution service.
Step 4: Get Your New CoE
Once you have your release letter (or once you are past the six-month window), accept an offer from your new provider. They will issue you a new Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
Step 5: Update Your Visa If Needed
If your new course is at a different qualification level or extends your stay significantly, you may need to apply for a new student visa. Contact the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent for advice specific to your situation.
If your new CoE is for the same or a similar qualification and does not extend your stay, you may be able to simply continue your new course without a new visa application. Check your conditions.
What About Offshore Students?
The March 2026 ban applies specifically to onshore transfers — students already in Australia. Offshore students applying from their home country continue to use education agents under the existing framework. The commission ban does not affect your ability to use an agent for an initial student visa application if you are applying from overseas.
Why Are Some Schools Better for Direct Enrolment?
Not all schools are set up to handle direct enquiries efficiently. Smaller boutique providers and newer institutions often prefer direct enrolments because it reduces their agent commission costs — which means the savings can sometimes be passed on to students in the form of more competitive fees.
Clinton Institute accepts direct student enquiries for a range of courses, including aged care, business, and ICT. Enquire directly to discuss your situation, your current course, and your goals.
Key Facts Summary
| Topic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Commission ban effective | 31 March 2026 |
| What is banned | Agent commissions on onshore student transfers |
| Can students still transfer? | Yes — directly, without an agent |
| Release letter needed | Only if within 6 months of principal course |
| New CoE required | Yes — from new provider |
| New visa may be needed | Only if course/visa conditions change |
| Free dispute resolution | Overseas Students Ombudsman |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still transfer schools in Australia after March 2026?
Yes. The March 2026 ban only prevents education agents from receiving commissions on your transfer. You can still transfer by contacting schools directly, getting a release letter if needed within six months, and obtaining a new CoE from your new provider.
Do I need a release letter to transfer if I am within six months of my course?
Generally yes. Under Standard 7 of the National Code 2018, students who have been studying with their principal provider for less than six months need a release letter before enrolling with a new provider. If you are past six months, you can apply directly to a new school.
Can I change my student visa course without using an agent in Australia?
Absolutely. You can contact any CRICOS-registered provider directly, receive an offer, get your new CoE, and — if your visa conditions require it — apply for a new student visa. You do not need an agent at any stage of this process.
What should I do if my current provider refuses to give me a release letter?
Your provider can only refuse on specific grounds under the National Code. If you believe the refusal is unreasonable, you can lodge a complaint with the Overseas Students Ombudsman, which provides free dispute resolution for international students in Australia.
Will I need a new student visa if I transfer to a different school?
Not always. If your new CoE is at a similar qualification level and does not materially change your visa conditions or extend your stay, you may not need a new visa. If the new course is at a different level or changes your situation significantly, you should check with the Department of Home Affairs or a registered migration agent.