Why the National Register Matters
When you are applying to an Australian higher education provider, the first thing to check is whether the provider is registered. All registered providers are listed on the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) National Register. This register is the official record of providers that are authorised to offer higher education in Australia.
Before you submit an application or pay any fees, take the time to look up the provider on the National Register. If a provider is not listed there, it is not a registered higher education provider, which means you would not have the protections that come with studying at a registered institution.
How to Use the Register
You can search the National Register by the provider’s name or by other identifying details. The register shows each provider’s current registration status, including any conditions or limitations on their registration. Always check the status at the time you are applying, because registration can change.
If you are using an education agent, the same rule applies: confirm that the provider you are considering is on the register. Neither an agent’s assurances nor a website’s appearance can replace a direct check of the official record.
What to Do if You Have Doubts
If you cannot find the provider on the National Register, or if the registration status appears to be limited or conditional, treat that as a warning sign. Contact the provider directly to ask about their registration, and consider seeking independent advice. You can also report concerns to TEQSA if you believe a provider is operating without proper registration.
Always rely on the National Register as the authoritative source for a provider’s registered status. It is your best safeguard as you plan your studies in Australia.