The Department of Education, Skills and Employment's thoughts are with all international students and their families affected by COVID-19.
On this page:
International students are an important and valued part of Australia’s world class education system. Those impacted by the COVID-19 emergency can contact international.students@dese.gov.au.
In addition to the information provided below, a range of resources and support can be found on the Study in Australia website, the official Australian Government website for international students.
International Student Arrivals
International students are an important part of the Australian community, and we are excited to welcome them back to our classrooms, campuses and communities. Australia’s borders are open to fully vaccinated international students and Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa holders.
There is a factsheet available on the reopening of international travel to students. The future role of the Protocols and Preconditions for International Student Arrivals are under consideration.
COVID-19 vaccine information
- COVID-19 vaccine information in your language
- Getting a COVID-19 vaccine if you are not eligible for Medicare
Support and wellbeing
To find out how you can seek help if you are experiencing distress, anxiety or concern as an international student as a result of COVID-19, read the Support for international students affected by coronavirus fact sheet.
School-aged students
From 15 December 2021, fully vaccinated eligible visa holders can come to Australia without needing to apply for a travel exemption. Eligible visa holders includes all school student cohorts with a valid visa. This supersedes all previously applying DESE-brokered bulk exemption processes, including the exemption process for Year 11 and 12 students and the 2021-2022 Summer holiday process.
Information on international student returns from 15 December 2021 is available.