A full-time study load is 60 credit points per semester (usually four subjects of 15 credit points each) or 30 credit points per term (usually two subjects of 15 credit points each).

A part-time study load is 15 to 45 credit points per semester (usually 1-3 subjects of 15 credit points each) or 15 credit points per term (usually one subject of 15 credit points).

Please note that students hoping to qualify for Centrelink payments need to be enrolled in a minimum of 75% or more of their course’s full-time study load (e.g. three subjects per semester). For more information, visit Services Australia. 

International students

If you are an international student, it's important that you enrol into 60 credit points every semester to ensure you are meeting the requirements of your visa and finishing your course in the standard timeframe.

You can reduce your study load during the standard semesters (Semester 1 and 2) if you are enrolled in subjects during the summer and winter study periods so that your total credit points for the year are 120. However, be aware that subjects running in summer and winter often have limited space and are popular.

If you are reducing your study load without completing summer or winter subjects to catch up and you will be completing less than 120 credit points in a year, you should contact La Trobe International for advice as you may no longer meet the requirements of your visa.

Domestic students

Depending on your course, you may need to ask us for advice before reducing your study load to part-time. Make sure you're aware of any pre-requisites for your upcoming subjects for later semesters as this may mean you have to wait a year to take a follow-on subject. You can search for current subject pre-requisites (these are subject to change) via the subjects listed in your course handbook.

Be aware there is a time limit on how long you have to complete your course. The maximum time allowed is calculated by doubling the normal, full-time duration and adding one year. For example, if your course is a three year full-time course, you will have up to seven years to complete it (3 x 2 + 1 = 7).

Students hoping to qualify for Centrelink payments need to be enrolled in a full-time study load each semester. Taking three subjects of 15 credit points each – 45 points in total – in a semester would normally be enough, but check directly with Centrelink for more detailed information.

Domestic students are also able to complete subjects during summer or winter school.