ESOS LEGISLATION  

The ESOS (Education Services for Overseas Students) Framework Act is an Australian law that regulates the delivery of education to international students studying in Australia on a student visa. The primary purpose of the ESOS Act is to safeguard the rights and well-being of international students and ensure the quality of their education experience through the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000 and the National Code 2018.

The ESOS framework serves as the benchmark that Australian education providers adhere to when delivering educational services to international students. It mandates that education providers furnish students with comprehensive information regarding the school or course, encompassing: 

• Adequate orientation for students concerning school and course requirements. 
• Access to substantial support services to facilitate effective studying and adjust to life in Australia. 
• Disclosure of information about designated contact officers for overseas students. 
• Clarification of the student’s eligibility for course credit. 
• Specification of conditions under which enrolment may be deferred, suspended, or canceled. 
• Provision of information regarding the school’s procedures for handling complaints and appeals. 

PROTECTION FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS  

International students holding a student visa must select a course and education provider listed on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). CRICOS registration ensures that the course and education provider meet rigorous quality standards for overseas students. Therefore, it is imperative for students to verify that the course details and school location align with CRICOS. 

The ESOS framework safeguards your entitlements, including: 

• The right to receive accurate and current information about courses, fees, study modes, and related details from the education provider before enrollment. For students under 18 years old, a visa will only be granted if there are suitable lodging arrangements and ample welfare support. 
• The right to enter into a written agreement with the provider detailing the services, fee payments, and information about course fee refunds. It is essential to retain a copy of this written agreement. 
• The entitlement to receive the quality of education promised, as the ESOS framework ensures consumer protection. In the event that the education provider fails to deliver as advertised, you have the right to either receive a refund or be transferred to another course. 

For further information about the ESOS Framework, kindly refer to the ESOS Factsheet available for download > ESOS Framework Factsheet