Request a reduced study load

International students, on a student visa, must always aim to complete your studies within the completion date specified on their Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) document. This means, under normal circumstances, they should complete at least eight (8) credit points per academic year with trimester 1 and trimester 2 being compulsory study periods.

Trimester 3 is considered a compulsory study period if it is a commencing study period, required as per an offer letter, or students need to take additional credit points (within their CoE) to meet the eight (8) credit point requirement to meet their student visa obligations.

An approved RSL is required when a student wants to enrol in fewer than eight (8) credit points per year and, in doing so, will extend their course duration. Approval is given based on compassionate and compelling grounds. If a student reduces their study load without approval, they risk having a future CoE extension request rejected due to under-enrolment.

Application form

Required fields are marked with an asterisk (*).

Your information

First name *

Family name *

Student ID *

Deakin email address *

Course code - course name *

Study load

Select your preferred study load – minimum load required is 1 (on campus) credit point.

Please indicate year and number of credit points.
Study period	Year	Number of credit points
Trimester 1
Trimester 2
Trimester 3

Do you intend to enrol in units in Trimester 3* of the current year? *If you select yes, your new expected completion date following an approved application will include trimester 3 study.

Student statement

In your own words, describe the circumstances and impact it has had on your studies.

Supporting documentation

In order to assess these circumstances, please complete the Reduced Study Load form and attach with this application as a digital and editable PDF. *
Reduced Study Load form (PDF,295KB)
Examples of compassionate and compelling grounds, and authorities who can complete Section B of this form, are detailed on the reduced study load webpage.

Acknowledgement

I understand and acknowledge that: A reduced study load application does not guarantee approval. I must maintain my enrolment and continue participating with studies, where possible, until an outcome is provided.
Not all courses permit a reduced study load.
Reducing my study load without approval may result in a future CoE extension being rejected on the basis of under-enrolment.
If my CoE is not extended in future – as a result of under-enrolment – I will be required to campus transfer to Online study and complete my degree from my home country.
Under legislation, the University is not permitted to provide further advice about migration or visas. However, the Department of Home Affairs, a Registered Migration Agent, or a Migration Lawyer are permitted to do so.
If approved, this is only applicable to a single trimester of application. If you wish to apply for a reduced load in future trimesters you will need to submit a new application which is subject to assessment. Students experiencing long term medical impact are encouraged to engage with the Disability Resource Centre (DRC).

I understand and acknowledge