Attention International Students: Important Updates to Australian Migration Policy

We trust this message finds you in good spirits as you pursue your academic aspirations. We want to share crucial updates regarding Australia’s migration policies, which may impact you.

These updates to Australian migration policy particularly focus on student visas and English language requirements, as outlined in the recently introduced Migration Strategy.

Genuine Student Requirements

The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the granting of a Student visa has been replaced by the Genuine Student (GS) requirement. The new GS requirement for international students aims to identify students with circumstances that support a genuine intention to obtain a quality education in Australia, without reference or confusion to any future intention to migrate.

The previous 300 word statement in the student visa application form has been replaced with targeted questions, designed to provide visa decision makers with an overview of the applicant and their reasons for wanting to study in Australia.

Questions will cover:

• Details of their current circumstances, including ties to family, community, employment and economic circumstances;
• An explanation for the choice of course and reasons for choosing Australia as a study destination;
• What benefits the course provides to the applicant;
• For applicants with a study history in Australia, details of their study history;
• For applicants holding a visa other than a student visa, their reasons for applying for a student visa; and any other relevant information the applicant wishes to provide.

See full details here >>

English Language Requirements

Key Changes for You:

1. Student Visas:
   • Minimum English proficiency requirement increases from IELTS 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent).
   • Minimum score for ELICOS courses rises from IELTS 4.5 to 5.0 (or equivalent).
   • Recognised university foundation or pathway programs require IELTS 5.5 (or equivalent).
   • No change for students solely studying English through ELICOS.
     
2. Temporary Graduate Visas:
   • Minimum score increases from IELTS 6.0 to 6.5 (or equivalent), with a minimum of 5.5 for each component.
   • Test validity window decreases from three years to one year.
   • Exemption for passport holders from Hong Kong and British National Overseas (BNO) remains at IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent), with a minimum score of 5.0 for each component.

See ‘meet English language requirements’ here >>

Preparing for Your Journey

We urge all current and prospective students to familiarise themselves with these updates. These changes apply to all applications lodged on or after 23 March, 2024. Rest assured, our commitment to facilitating your educational journey in Australia remains steadfast.

Should you have any queries or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

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Other Reads:

Working on a Student Visa: Your Workplace Rights and the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO)

5 Reasons Australian Businesses Should be Hiring International Students

If you have any questions or concerns about these changes, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.