The Australian Government’s COVID-19 pandemic higher education relief package included TEQSA application fee waivers and the introduction of short courses. As a result, TEQSA has received an unprecedented number of applications in both registration and course accreditation and renewals. TEQSA advises that this is likely to lead to extended application processing times, including well into 2022.
TEQSA has noted an increase in the number of applications that include evidence that is incomplete or contains errors. Wherever feasible, TEQSA will work with providers to address minor deficiencies during the course of an assessment. However, providers are advised that TEQSA may require incomplete and/or poor quality applications to be withdrawn and resubmitted as new applications with correct evidence, which will restart application processing timeframes
Registered higher education providers (without self-accrediting authority) must apply to TEQSA in writing to renew the accreditation of a higher education course of study. This application must be submitted at least 180 days before accreditation is due to expire, unless a shorter time frame has been agreed to. Providers hoping for a shorter time frame must contact us as soon as possible.
Applications must be on the approved online application form, include all information requested, and be accompanied by the applicable fee and payment/invoice form. See more information on our fees page.
If TEQSA grants an application for renewal of accreditation of a course of study, we will determine the accreditation period, up to a maximum of seven years.
Multiple applications
Providers are encouraged to apply for renewal of course accreditation at the same time as renewal of registration, and where applicable, other regulatory processes, such as CRICOS re-registration. Submitting multiple applications depends on a range of factors, including accreditation and registration periods.
Providers can contact their case manager to discuss the best way of making multiple applications before submission.
Before submitting
It is essential that applicants read the relevant application guide before submitting an application. The application guide explains the process, and gives indicative information about the evidence that will need to be submitted with each application, which should include a report by one or more independent experts with academic expertise in the relevant field.
Application guides can be accessed at our Application guides and support page.
Application forms
Application forms are available from TEQSA’s Provider Portal. For samples of the forms found on the Provider Portal, contact enquiries@teqsa.gov.au. The application form for renewing course accreditation only applies to courses of study that lead to a qualification recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).
It does not apply to other courses such as ELICOS courses or Foundation Programs. For application forms for Foundation Programs and ELICOS courses delivered by registered higher education providers or in a pathway arrangement with higher education providers, see our CRICOS page.
NOTE: Application forms must be submitted in the approved format via the Provider Portal, include all information requested, and be accompanied by the required fee.