FAQ
I have received a scholarship, how do I activate it?
The scholarship is activated after the student arrives in the host country and sends the following documents to the cultural attaché office:
- A copy of the passport: data page and entry stamp page
- The student's personal data form
- Authorization letter to obtain academic reports
For students sponsored by the Ministry of Education, the scholarship includes airport reception services as part of the scholarship benefits. The scholarship also covers hotel accommodation for six nights (including stay and meals only).
The student must send a copy of their travel ticket at least one week before the arrival date so that airport reception arrangements can be made. A driver will be waiting at the airport to pick up the student. If the arrival time changes for any reason, the student must inform the cultural attaché office of the new arrival date. Failure to notify the attaché office of the change in arrival date will result in the student not receiving the reception service. Additionally, not arriving on the scheduled date will incur a fine from the hotel, and a minimum of one night will be deducted from the six nights of hotel accommodation.
What should I do if I want to change my major or university?
It is recommended that students stick to their chosen major from the start of their scholarship to avoid wasting time and money. If the student wishes to change their major or university, they must submit a request to the Cultural Attaché explaining the reasons for the change and attach a copy of the new university offer. It is crucial that the student continues their studies at their current university and program until approval for the change is received.
How many courses can I register for in one semester?
To comply with scholarship regulations and student visa requirements, students must study full-time, which means enrolling in at least four courses per semester. In some cases, three courses may be allowed if one of the courses is equivalent to two courses. Failure to maintain full-time enrollment may lead to the cancellation of the student's scholarship or student visa.
Can I withdraw from any course during my studies?
Some students may be allowed to withdraw from certain courses under limited circumstances, but they must submit a written request to the Cultural Attaché explaining their reasons. Students should not withdraw from any course without obtaining written approval from the Attaché, otherwise, they will be issued a warning, and their scholarship may be canceled.
What should I do if I am struggling with my studies and cannot complete my academic program on time?
If a student is unable to finish their academic program within the prescribed time, they must submit a written request to the Cultural Attaché requesting an extension, along with the new university offer. The student must wait for approval of the extension from their scholarship provider.
What should I do if my student visa expires?
If your student visa expires, you must immediately inform the Cultural Attaché to receive assistance. To renew your student visa, you need to obtain a copy of your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the university and take it, along with your passport, to an Australian immigration office to apply for a new student visa. This process requires the student to attend the immigration office in person, in accordance with Australian immigration laws.
Does my attendance affect my student visa?
During the early stages of study (language courses and foundation programs), the student’s attendance should not be less than 80%.
Does a low academic performance affect my student visa?
Yes, a low academic performance affects the student visa. If a student’s grades fall below the required level or if they fail courses, the university will issue a warning. If repeated failures or poor academic performance occur, the university may expel the student and report this to immigration, potentially leading to the cancellation of the student’s visa. The Cultural Attaché will also issue warnings to students who are struggling academically, and repeated failures may result in the cancellation of the student's scholarship.
If I transfer from one university to another or extend my study program, do I need to consult immigration?
Yes, students must visit the immigration office with a copy of their new Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). This applies when renewing a student visa, changing universities, or extending the academic program, as these changes affect the student's study dates and require updating immigration records.
What are the best banks to choose for opening an account?
Students are required to open a bank account to receive their allowances and financial entitlements during their scholarship period. The student is free to choose the bank they wish to open an account with.
What are the financial entitlements provided to students on a Ministry of Education scholarship?
- Travel readiness allowance (once when the scholarship begins)
- Book allowance (once every year)
- Monthly stipend (for students receiving a salary)
- Health treatment fees
- Post-graduation shipping expenses
What should a new or continuing student do to receive their health insurance card?
The student must visit the Cultural Attaché to receive their health insurance card. The Cultural Attaché provides health coverage from the moment the student arrives in the host country until their graduation.
My health insurance card has expired. What should I do to renew it?
The student must visit the Cultural Attaché to renew their health insurance card with the health insurance provider.