If you are seeking support with lodging your international study application, an education agent could be an excellent resource.

What is an education agent?

Education agents provide international students with information, support and assistance to lodge an overseas study application.

An education agent can give you information about your options for studying and living in Victoria and help you with your study application.

Agents have up-to-date course information from many Victorian education providers and an understanding of the international education system in Australia. This means they can give you accurate information that is tailored to your needs.

An agent can also guide you through the process of accepting your offer.

If possible, compare more than one agent. This helps you choose an agent that's right for you.

Do I need an education agent?

While using an education agent is usually voluntary, in some cases your educational institution may require you to apply through an agent. Check with your prospective education provider directly to find out.

Choosing the right agent

Here are some tips and considerations for choosing an agent:

• Only use the services of a registered education agent listed on the Qualified Education Agents (QEA) list. You can use the interactive map on the QEA website to find a list of registered education agents near you.
• Remember that some agents are paid by one or more institutions. If they are, that might mean they are mainly interested in promoting the institutions that pay them. To be sure you are getting the best advice about all the course options available, you may wish to consider working with an independent agent.
• Never sign a contract without thoroughly reading it first. When engaging an agent, read the agreement carefully to ensure you are clear about costs involved. If your agent does not charge you a fee, it might be because they are being paid by universities on a commission basis for enrolments.
• If you can, work with an agent who specialises in the Australian education system. The more familiar your agent is with Australia’s education system, the more insights they will be able to share with you.

If your education provider does not have a preferred agent, ask family and friends if they can recommend one.

Study tours

An education agent may be able to arrange for you to go on a study tour. A study tour is usually a short visit that combines a course and some fun activities that help you learn about Victoria, Australia.

For example, an English language study tour might include English lessons in the morning and visits to tourist attractions in the afternoon. Speak to your education agent to find out what's available.

Written agreement to study

You must sign a written agreement with the university or other course provider before you pay any course money. The written agreement should include information about the course you are enrolling in, conditions and any applicable fees.

When you work with an education agent they will help you complete and submit the written agreement.

It is very important to read this agreement carefully before signing it to ensure you understand your rights. We also recommend checking payment and refund arrangements.

What if I have to change my agent?

If you wish to change agents, you may be able to do so, depending on your agreement or contract. To start the process, your first point of contact should be your education provider.

It is important to note that some institutions only allow you to switch agents under extreme circumstances. Others do not permit you to nominate a new agent at all. If you can’t nominate a new agent, you may be able to apply to become a direct applicant and manage your enrolment yourself.

Your institution is also the best place to go to make a complaint about an agent. Agents are required by law to comply with the National Code of Practice. If they do not, it could constitute grounds for a complaint. You will likely need to lodge a formal complaint, and you may have to wait to receive an outcome. Your institution must respond to complaints about their education agents.