A genuine education agent should put your child’s interests first, not their own commission, and help you make sound decisions about study and visas in Australia.
What a genuine education agent looks like
Many reputable Hong Kong–based counsellors hold qualifications such as QEAC (Qualified Education Agent Counsellor), and you can check their QEAC ID on the PIER/ICEF list or on institution websites where they are listed as official agents.
Good agents understand the ESOS Act and National Code, and work under formal agreements with Australian schools and colleges that require them to act ethically, honestly and in the best interests of students.
How a good agent supports your application
A genuine agent helps you choose suitable courses and providers, manage applications and support your student visa process instead of simply pushing whichever school pays the highest commission.
They guide you through English tests, GTE requirements, Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), OSHC and financial and personal‑ties evidence
If your student visa is refused
First, read the refusal letter carefully; it explains which criteria were not met and from what date your review period is counted.
Check whether you were onshore or offshore when you applied: onshore applicants usually have review rights to the tribunal (within strict deadlines), while most offshore applicants do not and you may need to lodge a fresh, stronger application instead.
Understand the refusal reasons—common issues are insufficient funds, weak home‑country ties, a course that does not fit previous study or career plans, or concerns that you may intend to overstay—and remember that higher‑risk countries face closer scrutiny and more documentation.
How to check if an agent is legitimate
Look for counsellor names, qualifications (such as QEAC IDs) and company details clearly shown on their website or marketing materials, and cross‑check them against official or recognised lists and university agent pages.
Beware of red flags: unclear fees, unrealistic timelines, guaranteed visas, or promises to “beat any offer” or guarantee entry to specific courses—if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
How SEA supports Hong Kong families
SEA’s qualified education counsellors are publicly listed and work under formal agreements with Australian VET and school sector and universities, following Australian standards for ethical student recruitment.
We support families from first consultation through course selection, applications and student visa lodgement, and can also involve our MARA‑registered migration agent, Jessica Yuen (MARN: 2117701), if you are worried about refusal risks or review options.
If you’re interested in learning more about SEA’s services, contact us for more information.
☎: 2569 5400
📲: 9174 7418
🔗: https://specialistedu.com.hk