The Australian Government’s decision to close the BSB80120 Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning) (GDML) to new overseas students means some students will need to reconsider their study plans.
At Kingston International College (KIC), the focus is on helping students and education partners understand their options and the requirements that apply. KIC offers the BSB80320 Graduate Diploma of Strategic Leadership and has introduced a dedicated pre-enrolment form and sample guidance to support careful assessment of applicants’ qualifications and work experience.
For students exploring their next step, understanding whether a course suits their background is an essential part of the decision.
What Is Changing for GDML Students?
From 5 October 2026, providers will no longer be able to issue new Confirmations of Enrolment (CoEs), enrol new overseas students or commence overseas students who have not already started the GDML.
Overseas students who commenced the course before that date can continue studying with their current provider. CoEs for students who have not commenced will be automatically cancelled on 5 October 2026. Domestic delivery is unaffected. These arrangements are explained in ASQA’s official announcement.
Students with GDML included as a later course in a study package should also contact their provider to understand how the change affects their plans.
KIC’s Proactive Approach: Clearer Entry Checks and Practical Guidance
KIC has introduced the BSB80320 Pre-Enrolment Entry Requirement & Work Experience Form for all applicants to its Graduate Diploma of Strategic Leadership.
The form helps applicants present their qualifications, employment history and relevant leadership and management experience in a consistent way. It includes details such as employment dates, responsibilities, working hours and experience gained through running a business.
KIC has also provided a sample completed form to help applicants and education partners understand the information required.
The new form must be submitted alongside KIC’s usual Pre-Enrolment Checklist and supporting evidence. KIC Admissions reviews each application and makes the final entry requirement decision.
These steps help students establish their eligibility before committing to a new study direction.
Could the Graduate Diploma of Strategic Leadership Be Suitable?
The BSB80320 Graduate Diploma of Strategic Leadership may be an option for applicants whose qualifications, experience and study goals match the course.
Entry requires either:
- A Diploma or Advanced Diploma in a related field, plus three years of equivalent full-time relevant workplace experience.
- A Bachelor degree in a related field, plus two years of equivalent full-time relevant workplace experience.
- Five years of equivalent full-time relevant workplace experience.
In each case, the experience must involve a significant level of leadership and management responsibility and/or complexity in an enterprise. Applicants must also meet KIC’s other applicable admission requirements. View the national qualification requirements.
Admission is individually assessed. An existing GDML offer or CoE does not automatically establish eligibility for Strategic Leadership.
KIC delivers the course over 104 weeks, including 80 academic weeks and 24 weeks of scheduled study breaks. Explore KIC’s Graduate Diploma of Strategic Leadership.
What Should Affected Students Do Next?
If you have a GDML offer or CoE but have not started the course, contact your provider to discuss your circumstances before making changes.
Depending on your situation, options may include a suitable alternative course or a refund of unspent tuition fees. Where provider default occurs, tuition protection obligations apply. The Department of Education’s student fact sheet explains these protections.
For questions about your visa, seek information from the Department of Home Affairs or advice from a registered migration agent.
Students and education partners considering BSB80320 at KIC are encouraged to contact KIC Admissions for guidance on the application and evidence requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can current GDML students finish their course?
Overseas students who commenced GDML before 5 October 2026 can continue with their current provider under the announced arrangements. Read ASQA’s guidance.
Does this government decision also cancel BSB80320 Strategic Leadership?
The announced measure specifically concerns BSB80120 Graduate Diploma of Management (Learning). It does not extend to all graduate diploma qualifications. Read the government instrument.
Can I move automatically from GDML to Strategic Leadership?
No. You must meet BSB80320’s entry requirements and complete KIC’s admissions assessment. Any change also needs to be considered against your individual enrolment and visa circumstances.