How to register a new school
Your application to register a new school must meet the minimum standards and requirements for school registration.
The registration process is thorough. You should allow 12-18 months to complete and submit your application.
You must submit your application for school registration by 30 June of the year before you intend to open the school.
Applications for new online or virtual schools
You must contact us if you are interested in registering an online or virtual school. There are funding and delivery implications that will inform any application we consider.
To add and online or virtual campus to an existing school registration, see Update independent school registration.
Timeline for application process
Closing date for applications
30 June 2024
You can submit your application before this date.
VRQA assesses application
July-August
Applicant feedback meetings (if required)
August–September
Final complete submission due*
4–6 weeks after feedback meeting
*Some requirements such as final teacher list, student enrolment numbers, and some building documentation (for example the occupancy permit) will be accepted after this date.
Start date
Term 1, 2025
How is my application assessed?
Once you have paid the application fee, we will assess your application against the minimum standards for school registration. We may request additional information. For more information about the we consider when registering education and training providers, see our Provider risk framework.
We will ask you to attend a formal interview within 4 to 6 weeks of your application.
We will provide written feedback after the interview. If applicable, you will have one opportunity to resubmit insufficient documentation.
How will I know the outcome of my application?
We will contact you when we have decided the outcome of your application.
We can only register if your school meets the minimum standards and other requirements.
If we grant registration, we will:
- issue a certificate of registration
- add your school and details of what it is registered for the State Register.
Once registered, changes to your school's registration will require you to Update independent school registration.
Appeals
If we reject your application, you can appeal our decision by applying to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
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