Tuition Protection Service (TPS)
Information for international students on student visas about tuition protection, course disruption and where to get help.
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What tuition protection covers
The Tuition Protection Service is an Australian Government service. It may assist eligible international students when their education provider cannot deliver their course and does not meet its legal obligations.
The information below relates to international students on student visas. TPS eligibility and assistance depend on the circumstances of the case.
If your provider cannot deliver your course
A provider default can occur when a provider closes, does not start a course or stops delivering it before completion. The provider must notify affected students in writing and, within 14 days, place them in an alternative course or refund their unspent tuition fees.
If these obligations are not met, TPS may assist with alternative study options or a refund. Follow the instructions and deadlines TPS gives you for your case.
Your study and refund options
Before accepting another course, discuss credit for completed study, entry requirements, the study format, the remaining duration and fees with the alternative provider. You will need an enrolment offer. If the alternative course costs more, you may need to pay the difference.
Unspent tuition fees are amounts paid for education that has not been delivered. Tuition protection does not cover every expense, such as accommodation, OSHC, books, equipment, administration fees or visa charges.
Using TPS Online and keeping your records
TPS contacts affected students and explains how to access TPS Online. If you are eligible, TPS will arrange an account. Use the official service to provide the documents requested for your case.
Keep copies of your documents somewhere you can access if a provider's systems become unavailable. Useful records include:
- Your offer letter, written agreement and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
- Your identity and visa documents
- Payment receipts and bank statements, including records of payments through an education agent
- Your course structure, results and records of completed study or placements
- Open TPS Online (sign-in required) (opens in a new tab)
- Australian Government: TPS Online instructions (PDF) (opens in a new tab)
- TPS support guide and translated versions (opens in a new tab)
Withdrawing or not starting a course
TPS may also assist with refunds after certain student defaults when a provider has not met its legal obligations. Check the government's criteria and your written agreement. Withdrawing does not automatically entitle you to a full refund.
Visa questions, complaints and wellbeing
Course disruption can affect your student visa. Contact the Department of Home Affairs for guidance about your circumstances. TPS does not make visa decisions.
You can contact TITAN for student support. For an unresolved higher education complaint, or if you cannot complain directly to your provider, contact the National Student Ombudsman.
Contact TPS
For tuition protection questions, contact TPS directly. Its student support phone line operates Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4 pm AEST/AEDT.