Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning) GDML Important Student Update: FAQs, and Study Pathways
Overview of Regulatory Changes
The Australian Government has introduced changes under the Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 (ESOS Act) that affect the registration of the GDML across all education providers nationally. Specifically, the CRICOS registration for the GDML will be suspended on 5 October 2026 and will subsequently be cancelled.
APC Education Group Webinar 14 September 2026
APC Education Group hosted a live Student Information Webinar on Monday, 14 September 2026, to outline what these regulatory changes mean for affected students and to explain the support and study options available.
Thank you to everyone who joined APC’s Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning) (GDML) Student Information Webinar on Monday, 14 September 2026. For those who were unable to join us, we have provided a summary of the key updates below, along with answers to some frequently asked questions.
During the webinar, we discussed recent regulatory changes affecting the GDML course for international students and outlined the support and study options available to students who currently hold a Letter of Offer or Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
The session was designed to help students better understand what these changes mean for their individual circumstances, address common questions, and provide guidance on the available next steps.
How These Changes Affect You
APC has announced updated commencement arrangements for eligible GDML students following recent regulatory changes affecting the course.
Students who have already commenced the GDML are not affected and can continue their studies and complete their qualification as planned.
For students who have not yet commenced, including those who hold an active Letter of Offer or CoE, APC is working closely with students and education agents to review individual circumstances and discuss the options available to support their study plans.
Students should be aware that those who do not commence the GDML before 5 October 2026 will not be able to start the course under the current regulatory arrangements. We encourage affected students to contact APC as soon as possible to discuss their available options.
Support for Students and Agents
We understand that changes to study plans can be challenging and that every student’s circumstances are different.
To assist during this transition, students and education agents who have questions about enrolment arrangements, study options, or next steps are encouraged to contact APC’s Registry and Course Variation teams for assistance at: [email protected]
For students and partners who joined the webinar, as well as those who were unable to join the live session, a recording of the webinar is available below.
If you wish to proceed with the updated commencement arrangements, please complete the Course Variation Request Form or scan the QR code to submit your form!
We have also included answers to some of the most frequently asked questions raised during the webinar and through subsequent student enquiries.
Q: Are students who have already commenced the GDML before 5 October affected?
A: No. Students who have already commenced the GDML can continue their studies and complete the qualification as planned.
Q: What happens if I have a GDML CoE but have not commenced by 5 October 2026?
A: Students who have not commenced their GDML course by 5 October 2026 will have their GDML COE automatically cancelled on 5 October 2026. You should submit a Course Variation Request and follow the guidance provided by APC by 28 September 2026. Our team will review each student’s circumstances and provide further advice.
Q: What should I do if my student visa application was/is still pending?
A: If you submit a Course Variation Request APC will issue you an updated CoE and our Course Variation team will follow up to discuss your study plan options. Individual circumstances may vary, and students should also seek advice from their migration agent where appropriate as you will need to upload the new CoE and an updated Genuine Student (GS) statement to your ImmiAccount.
Q: When will I receive an updated CoE?
A: Once APC receives and reviews your Course Variation Request, the Register Team will contact you or your agent. Once the changes are confirmed, a revised CoE will be issued.
Q: Are there alternative study pathways available?
A: Yes. APC has a range of alternative study pathway options available for students who may wish to explore alternative qualifications or course packages. Students can contact the Course Variation Team to discuss the most suitable option for their circumstances.
Q: What should I do if I want to transfer to an alternative course pathway?
A: Contact APC at [email protected] to discuss available Diploma and Advanced Diploma options. Please note that changing to a lower AQF qualification level requires updating your Genuine Student (GS) documentation and may require applying for a new student visa. Please discuss visa-related matters to your educational agent or your migration agent.
Q: How will refunds or fee matters be handled?
A: Refunds and fee-related matters will be assessed on a case-by-case basis in accordance with APC’s Policies, Conditions of Enrolment and applicable regulatory requirements. Please contact us at [email protected] to assist with any fee matters.
Q: What happens if I hold a CoE but do/did not commence by 4 October 2026?
A: Your GDML CoE will be automatically cancelled on 5 October 2026 under the new regulations. You will have a 3-month window to transition into an alternative course pathway or process a refund for unspent tuition fees in accordance with APC’s policies.
Need assistance? Contact the Course Variation Team at [email protected].
