Stuck in the Wrong Course? 7 in 10 Students Consider Transferring—Here’s How to Do It Right
More than 70% of international students consider changing their university or course during their studies. Some want a lower tuition fee, others aim for a better PR pathway, and many simply realise their current degree isn’t the right fit.
Here’s the good news: you don’t have to start over.
Thanks to the AQF credit transfer system, many Australian universities recognise previous study—making it possible to switch institutions without losing all your progress.
Let’s begin with the basics—can you actually switch universities in Australia without starting from scratch?
Yes—you can transfer universities in Australia and keep some or all of your completed subjects, thanks to a system called credit transfer.
A credit transfer means your completed subjects (units/modules) at one institution are recognised by another university—so you don’t have to repeat them. This reduces both the length and cost of your new course.
The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is a national policy that allows consistent recognition of qualifications across institutions. It sets clear rules for:
This makes it easier to transfer between different types of providers—like from a private college to a public university—or between states.
For international students, it’s important to choose a CRICOS-registered university that accepts credit under AQF rules. Both your current and future institutions must be on the CRICOS register to maintain visa eligibility.
If you’re unsure, PickMyUni can check your credits, map your subjects, and recommend compatible universities—saving you time and avoiding visa issues.
You'll need to request:
The new uni will:
Here are the main types of credit that Australian universities may accept:
💡 Important Note:
Each university applies its own rules to what qualifies. The best way to know what you’ll get is by submitting a formal credit transfer request with all supporting docs—or ask PickMyUni to help you map it out in advance.
Credit transfers are possible—but only under the right conditions. Here's what matters most:
✔️ Credit Limits
Most universities allow up to 50–67% of a course to be credited.
✔️ Timeframe
Subjects should be completed within the last 5–10 years to be eligible.
✔️ Course Compatibility
Units must closely match the content and level of the new program.
✔️ Failed Subjects Aren’t Transferable
Only passed units are considered for credit.
✔️ Formal Application Is Required
You’ll need to submit a credit transfer form, transcripts, and subject outlines.
✔️ CRICOS & Visa Compliance
Your new university must be CRICOS-registered. Changing unis may require a new CoE and visa update.
Each uni makes its own decision. PickMyUni can help you map your credits and choose a course that works for your PR and study goals.
Several factors determine how much credit you’ll actually get:
✔️ Similarity of Courses
The more your old and new units align, the higher the credit chance.
✔️ Academic Performance
Only passed subjects are eligible—no credit for fails or incomplete units.
✔️ University Policies
Each university applies different rules. Some are strict, others more flexible.
✔️ Switching Fields
Transferring within the same field (e.g. IT to Cybersecurity) is easier than switching disciplines (e.g. Nursing to Business).
✔️ Visa Implications
Changing course length or level may affect your student visa and PR timeline.
PickMyUni helps you review your transcript, map out credit potential, and avoid risky transfers.
Transferring universities doesn’t need to be complicated. Here’s how PickMyUni helps students make smooth, smart transitions:
➤ Free Credit Evaluation
We assess your transcript and identify where you can carry over completed subjects.
➤ Course Matching with PR Focus
We recommend affordable, PR-aligned universities based on your academic background and visa goals.
➤ CoE and Visa Support
We help you manage the paperwork—new CoEs, course switches, and visa updates if required.
➤ Faster Transfer Turnaround
We work directly with universities to avoid delays and missed intakes.
Thinking of transferring?
→ Contact PickMyUni Today – It’s free, expert-led, and visa-safe.
❓ How long does a credit transfer take?
Typically 2–6 weeks, depending on the university and time of year.
❓ Will I lose my visa if I switch universities?
No, but you’ll need a new CoE and may need to update your student visa based on the new course duration.
❓ Can I transfer from a private to a public university?
Yes—as long as both institutions are CRICOS-registered and the course levels align under AQF.
❓ Can I get credit for online or overseas study?
Possibly. If your subjects match AQF standards and you provide proper documentation, it may be recognised.
❓ What if I don’t get full credit?
You can still transfer. You’ll just need to complete any unmatched subjects at the new uni.
Still unsure about your eligibility?
👉 Ask PickMyUni’s Experts — Free advice. Fast answers.
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