Key Dates

Keep these key dates in mind when planning your studies. Dates vary depending on whether you’re studying English language, a coursework program, or a research higher degree, so be sure to check the dates that apply to you. 

You can also refer to our Academic Calendars, which include census dates. Census date is the last day you can withdraw from enrolled units without academic or financial penalty.

When to Apply

We encourage you to submit your application at least three months before your preferred term, or even earlier if you can. 

This gives you plenty of time to receive and accept your offer, get your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) if required, and apply for your student visa. Student visa processing is handled by the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs, and times can vary so the more time you allow, the better.

Recommended Arrival

Plan to be in Australia about four weeks before you start your course. This is to ensure you have enough time to arrange your long-term accommodation, attend orientation and finalise your check-in on-campus. 

You can find more information on pre-arrival such as what to expect and settling in on our Planning Your Arrival and Studying in Australia page.

English Language Students

Orientation and Enrolment: Held together on the first day of class to help you settle in and complete your enrolment.

Undergraduate and Postgraduate Coursework Students

Orientation: Takes place during the week prior to the start of classes to help you settle in and prepare for your studies. You can book in to specific orientation events after you've enrolled by logging into MyCQU. For more information, please check our Orientation page.

Enrolment: Enrol as soon as you receive your visa by logging into MyCQU. If your visa is still being processed, the latest you can enrol is the Friday of the week classes start. 

If you are studying your course online from your home country or if you are in Australia on a visa other than a student visa, you can enrol as soon as we finalise your acceptance. For more information, please check our Enrolment page.

Research Higher Degree Students

You can commence at any time (except December), depending on supervisor availability and approval.