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How to Apply for a Release Letter in Australia

For Nigerian and African students in Australia, switching schools or courses can feel like a maze of rules. One of the most critical requirements when transferring within the first 6 months of your principal course is a Release Letter.

Without this letter, you cannot legally transfer to another school, and attempting to do so may lead to visa cancellation.

This guide explains what a release letter is, why you need it, how to apply for one, and how Afrovo supports African students in getting approval smoothly.

When Do You Need a Release Letter?

You’ll need a release letter if:

  • You’ve been in your principal course for less than 6 months.

  • You want to transfer to another provider or program.

  • You want to move to a cheaper, better, or PR-friendly school.

You don’t need it if:

  • You’ve already completed 6 months in your principal course.

  • You’re transferring to another course at the same institution.

  • You’re going to a higher AQF level (e.g., Diploma → Bachelor at same provider).

 

Common Reasons Students Request Release Letters

  • High Tuition Fees: Finding a more affordable school.

  • Course Mismatch: Current course doesn’t align with career goals.

  • Location Issues: Wanting to move to another city or regional area.

  • Better Support: Looking for institutions with stronger student services.

  • Migration Goals: Switching to a course that offers better PR prospects.

 

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Release Letter

Step 1: Check Your Provider’s Policy

  • Every institution has its own guidelines.

  • Afrovo helps review your school’s transfer requirements.

Step 2: Prepare a Written Request

Include:

  • Reasons for wanting to transfer.

  • Offer letter from the new institution.

  • Evidence of financial or academic difficulty (if applicable).

Step 3: Submit to Your School

  • Send via the provider’s official portal or student services office

Step 4: Await Decision

  • Schools must respond within a reasonable timeframe.

  • If refused, you can appeal internally or to the Ombudsman.

Step 5: Receive Release & Update COE

  • Once approved, obtain a new Confirmation of Enrolment (COE) from your new school.

  • Immigration (DHA) is automatically updated via PRISMS.

 

Reasons Schools May Refuse Release Letters

  • You didn’t explain strong reasons for transfer.

  • You’re only moving for lower fees (without evidence of hardship).

  • You failed to provide an offer letter from the new provider.

  • You owe tuition fees to your current provider.

 

Example: Nigerian Student Transfer Case

  • Sola, a Nigerian IT student in Sydney, wanted to move to a regional university for cheaper fees and PR benefits.

  • Afrovo prepared a release letter request highlighting financial hardship and career alignment.

  • The provider approved it in 3 weeks → visa intact, smooth transfer achieved.

 

How Afrovo Helps with Release Letters

  • Reviews your academic, financial, and career situation.

  • Prepares strong justifications tailored to your case.

  • Ensures supporting documents (new offer letter, finances) are correct.

  • Guides you if your provider initially refuses.

  • Aligns transfer with visa safety and PR opportunities.

 

Achieve Your Migration Journey Today with Afrovo.

We are passionate about helping Africans unlock global opportunities.

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