Pre-enrolment engagement of studentsPre-enrolment engagement of students

Pre-enrolment engagement of students

(Standards 1 to 4)

Students and their parents are often first exposed to the Australian education system through providers’ marketing information. It is important that this information is of a high standard, clear and unambiguous, so that intending students and their parents can make informed decisions about their preferred provider and course. The marketing practices of registered providers must uphold the reputation of Australian international education and training and be undertaken in a professional manner (Standard 1).

The recruitment of students follows general marketing and is the first step in establishing a formal relationship between the student and the registered provider. It is important that the recruitment is ethical and upholds the integrity of Australian education and training. Intending students need to be able to access information about the course, fees, facilities, services and resources offered by the registered provider prior to enrolment in order to make informed choices about their education options. At this point, the registered provider also needs to be satisfied that the student’s English language proficiency, qualifications and experience are appropriate for the course (Standard 2).

The final step involves the formalisation of the enrolment whereby a written agreement is entered into by the registered provider and student (or parent or legal guardian if the student is under 18 years of age). This agreement aims to ensure the obligations and rights of both the registered provider and student are clearly set out, including the course money payable and services to be provided (Standard 3).

Education agents are often the first point of contact between the industry and intending students and their parents. Their activities and ethics are important to Australia’s reputation as a desirable destination for students, and registered providers have an interest in ensuring education agents act ethically and appropriately (Standard 4).

Registered providers may receive students from education agents acting on behalf of the student or from education agents who are formally engaged by the registered provider to recruit students. Under the National Code, registered providers are only required to have written agreements with education agents who are formally engaged by the registered provider to recruit students on its behalf. It is expected that registered providers will formally engage education agents where there is an ongoing or significant relationship.

Standard 1 – Marketing information and practices

Outcome of Standard 1

Registered providers ensure that marketing of their education and training services is professional, accurate and maintains the integrity and reputation of the industry.