As an international student, it is also important to remember that where your interests end up may not be where they start and understanding exactly what you want before commencing studies in Australia can save a lot of time and money. The most common we see is the Business to Nursing transition. But perhaps the bigger question is: Can you change direction in Australia?
The short answer is yes — but there are some important academic and visa considerations you need to know about before changing tracks.
Why Students Switch from Business to Nursing
Taking up a course is likely to be the biggest decision any international student has to make. Sometimes that choice is driven by parental pressures, pathways to PR or lack of better information prior to coming down under. Some of the things students might find after beginning their Business degree include:
- Stronger interest in healthcare
- Better long-term career stability
- Growing need of nurses in Australia
- Clearer skilled migration pathways
Nursing is on every (skilled) list in Australia which makes it quite appealing for those students looking at settling down permanently.
But the process for transferring is not as straightforward as applying for a new course.
Can You Change Courses on a Student Visa?
Can International Students on Student Visa (Subclass 500) Change Courses?Yes, international students are allowed to switch courses under certain rules and regulations specified by the education providers and the Australian Government.
1. Six-Month Rule
If you are not 6 months into the principal course, transfer to another provider – You will generally need a release letter from your current institution before moving to another provider.
2. Level of Qualification
Changing from a Master of Business to a Bachelor of Nursing is qual level transfer. This is a profound change and it might require:
- For a new Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
- A new Genuine Student assessment
- Possibly a new visa application
Immigration will look at whether the new course fits with what you’ve studied before, your career plans and your education history.
Is Switching from Business to Nursing a “Genuine” Change?
Your new course is judged by the Department of Home Affairs if it makes sense. You must be able to explain:
- Why you initially chose Business
- Why you want to now study nursing course in Australia.
- How this aligns with your long-term career plans
And if your response is just PR, it may be amplifying the concern. SOO: A good Statement of Purpose is very important.
Academic Requirements for Nursing
Changing to Nursing is not just a visa thing – you need to meet academic and English standards too.
Entry requirements to Bachelor of Nursing Most Bachelor of Nursing programs also require:
- Relevant English test result (IELTS Academic ready 7.0 overall)
- Science background (in some cases)
- Police checks and health checks
- Immunisation compliance
NB Business is less hard-assed as a discipline than Nursing, there are professional bodies at state and national level to join and be registered with (AHPRA).
Will You Need to Apply for a New Visa?
It depends.
Same Education Level
You might not need a new visa if you transition from one Master’s programme to another (depending on length).
Different Education Level
Reverting from postgraduate to undergraduate Most likely you need a new student visa application, even if the current one is for masters only.
This is where professional advice is key. Making a wrong decision on the change of course strategy could affect whether you still hold a valid visa.
Impact on PR Pathways
Lots of students change to Nursing as it is widely regarded as being on skilled occupations lists. Nursing is a highly sought after profession in many states across the country.
However, PR is never guaranteed. Students must:
- Complete the Nursing qualification
- Meet AHPRA registration requirements
- A relevant job (in some cases)
- Meet points test requirements
Changing a major should be driven by legitimate career interest, not just dreams of migrating.
Financial Considerations
Before changing courses, consider:
- Tuition fee differences
- Transfer of credits (very few from Business to Nursing)
- Extended study duration
- Expenses for maintaining yourself over an extended amount of time
Nursing courses are also 3 years long, and this may presumably add some significant time to your stay as well as financial management.
Final Thoughts: Plan Before You Switch
Changing from MBA to Nursing in Australia is FEASIBLE 100%, However you need to be Academically Eligible, Need a good Genuine Student Statement and Planning of Visa.
If you don’t know what to do, and are afraid to make a wrong choice, ask for advice. The best education consultants in Melbourne can guide you on course eligibility, visa implications and career progression into the future – so that your transition to Australia is a simple one.
