by: Danielle Baird

Is your institution’s CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students) renewal date approaching? As the deadline for CRICOS renewal of registration approaches, ensuring a smooth and successful CRICOS re-registration process is crucial for your institution. Proper preparation not only helps maintain compliance, but also reinforces your commitment to providing high-quality education to international students.

Here are some key steps to guide you through the CRICOS re-registration process:

1. Review Current Compliance Requirements

   Begin by familiarising yourself with information on the Department of Education website, the latest legislative requirements and any guidance notes from the regulator.

2. Conduct a Self-Audit

   Develop a checklist, such as the example provided by DVE, to perform a thorough internal review of your policies, procedures and practices against the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Framework and National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students 2018 (National Code) requirements.

Assess areas such as:

• Student Support Services: Confirm that your support services are robust and meet the needs of international students. This includes offering accessible counselling services, secure and suitable accommodation, and targeted academic support.
• Staffing Requirements: Verify that your academic and support staff hold the necessary qualifications and relevant experience, enabling them to deliver high-quality education and support services that meet institutional and legislative requirements.
• Course Delivery: Ensure that your course offerings are up-to-date, reflective of industry trends and academic advancements, and aligned with legislative requirements.

Upon completion of the internal review, develop a comprehensive action plan to address any gaps or compliance issues, ensuring responsibilities are assigned and there are clear deadlines for completion.

3. Update Documentation

   Ensure all your documentation is current and accurately reflects your institution’s operations. This includes:

• Course Information: Confirm that course descriptions, learning outcomes, and assessment methods are up-to-date and comply with legislative requirements.
• Staff Records: Update records for all staff involved in course delivery and student support, including their qualifications and professional development/scholarship activities.
• Policies and Procedures: Revise and document any changes in your policies and procedures, ensuring any necessary approvals and communication of changes to stakeholders.
4. Engage with Stakeholders
   Involve key stakeholders in the preparation process. This includes:
• Governing Bodies: Ensure regular reporting is happening to your institutions relevant governing bodies to keep them informed on progress.
• Internal Teams: Communicate with your internal teams to ensure everyone is aware of their roles and responsibilities in the CRICOS re-registration process.
• Students: Seek feedback from current international students about their experiences and any areas for improvement. Student feedback can provide valuable insights into potential compliance gaps.
5. Address Past Issues

   Review any previous CRICOS audits or assessments and address any issues or recommendations. Demonstrating that you have acted on past feedback shows a commitment to continuous improvement.

6. Prepare for a potential Site Visit

   If a site visit is part of the CRICOS re-registration process, ensure your facilities and operations are ready. This includes:

• Physical Infrastructure: Ensure that your campus and facilities meet legislative requirements and are in good working condition.
• Operational Readiness: Prepare for a thorough review of your operations, including administrative processes and student support services.
7. Seek Professional Expert Advice

   Consider consulting with a compliance expert who specialises in CRICOS regulations. Their expertise can provide additional assurance that your institution is fully prepared for CRICOS re-registration.

8. Submit Your Application Early

   Complete and submit your CRICOS re-registration application well before the deadline. Early submission allows time to address any potential issues and avoids last-minute stress.

By following these steps, your institution can navigate the CRICOS re-registration process with confidence, ensuring continued registration and the ability to offer quality education to international students. Preparing thoroughly not only helps meet regulatory requirements but also enhances the overall student experience, reinforcing your institution’s reputation as a provider of choice in the global education market.

If you would like further information about how DVE could assist your institution with your CRICOS re-registration, please reach out to the DVE Business Solutions Team – we’re always happy to organise a no obligations chat to discuss how we can support you.