International Student Support

If you’re an international student at Adelaide University and thinking about changing your enrolment, this page is here to help. Whether you’re considering deferring your studies, taking a break, switching programs, or transferring to another education provider, we’ll guide you through what’s possible and what steps to take. It’s important to understand how these changes might affect your student visa, so we’ve included links to support services and visa information to help you make informed decisions. If you’re unsure about anything, our International Student Support team is here to chat.

If something unexpected happens during your studies (like illness, a family emergency, or a major event back home) you might be eligible for support under what the University calls “compelling and compassionate circumstances”. This page explains what situations qualify, what documents you’ll need, and how these circumstances can affect your enrolment and visa. If you're unsure whether your situation applies, our International Student Advisers are here to help you talk it through and explore your options.

If you're studying in Australia on a student visa, it's important to understand and follow your visa conditions. This page explains what you need to know: like keeping your visa and passport up to date, enrolling in the right number of courses, and making sure your study plans match your visa requirements. It’s your responsibility to stay on top of these rules, but you’re not alone - our International Student Support team is here if you need help or have questions about your situation.

As an international student in Australia, understanding your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is essential to ensuring you’re supported throughout your studies. OSHC is a mandatory part of your student visa and provides access to medical services including hospital care, general practitioner visits, emergency ambulance services, and some prescription medicines. Adelaide University partners with Bupa to deliver this cover, making it easy to access support, claim benefits, and manage your health with tools like the myBupa app and on-campus assistance. This guide will help you navigate your OSHC and make the most of the services available to you.

At Adelaide University, your wellbeing is a top priority. Whether you're adjusting to a new culture, managing study stress, or facing personal challenges, free and confidential counselling is available to support you. You can also access tailored assistance through Access and Inclusion Services if you have a disability, health condition or caring responsibilities. In emergencies, both on-campus and after-hours support is available. And to help you stay safe, we offer guidance on recognising and avoiding scams - especially important when settling into a new country.

Working part-time while studying can be a great way to gain experience and earn extra income, but it’s important to understand how it fits within your visa conditions and academic commitments. Adelaide University provides clear guidance to help you stay informed about your work rights, visa restrictions, and how to find fair and legal employment. Before starting a job, make sure you know the limits on working hours, how to protect yourself in the workplace, and where to find support and resources to balance work and study successfully.