MCEETYA's National Protocols for Higher Education Approval Processes: Part 5 & protocol 5

Background

5.1
It is the responsibility of State and Territory Governments under the Commonwealth Education Services for Overseas Students Act  , to endorse courses of study as suitable for overseas students. This endorsement is accepted by the Commonwealth for the purpose of issuing visas to students.

5.2
For the protection of students and the international reputation of Australian awards, MCEETYA decided that this endorsement should only be given where the endorsing authority has confidence that the courses concerned are offered at a standard equivalent to other programs of similar kind, that facilities and services are of adequate standard, and that the organisation providing the program has the financial and other resources to ensure full and effective delivery of the program.

5.3
Endorsement of courses for overseas students should be given by the State or Territory where the course is to be delivered.

5.4
Endorsement of higher education courses for overseas students should only be given by or following advice from State or Territory officers responsible for accreditation and approval of higher education awards.

5.5
Where a course is to be offered by a university or other self-accrediting institution, accreditation of the course may be assumed. However, if the course is to be offered in special circumstances, such as at a distant location or through an agent, the endorsing authority must be satisfied that:

1. the special circumstances will be made clear to students before enrolment;
2. the facilities and services are of adequate standard for the courses offered;
3. in the case of delivery through an agent, the teaching staff are adequately qualified, and effective quality assurance measures are in place, and appropriate guarantees by the principal institution given for the protection of students; and
4. the endorsement of the course is not transferable to another provider.

5.6
Where a course is to be offered by an institution other than a university or other self-accrediting institution

1. the course should be accredited according to the criteria specified in 3.22 and 3.23 and the institution has approval to offer the course in that jurisdiction; and
2. the endorsement of the course is not transferable to another provider.