In line with the Migration Strategy released on 11 December 2023, the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for Student (Subclass 500) (Student) visas was replaced with a Genuine Student (GS) requirement from 23 March 2024.
The new GS requirement
The new GS requirement has target questions that provide decision-makers with an overview of the applicant and their reasons for wanting to study in Australia. Intended questions 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 Student wishes to provide.
Applications lodged prior to 23 March 2024 will continue to be assessed according to existing arrangements. The GTE requirement will also continue to apply to Student Guardian (Subclass 590) visa applications.
As part of these changes, Ministerial Direction 69 will be revoked and replaced by two new ministerial directions.
Increased English language requirements
The following changes to English language requirements will also apply to Student visa applications lodged from 23 March 2024 onwards:
Criteria |
Old requirement |
New requirement |
|
The minimum test score for the English proficiency requirement |
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) 5.5 (or equivalent) |
IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) |
|
The minimum score to undertake a packaged English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) course |
IELTS 4.5 (or equivalent)
|
IELTS 5.0 (or equivalent)
|
Students undertaking recognised university foundation or pathway programs that deliver reputable English language training require a score of IELTS 5.5. (or equivalent) these recognised courses will be listed on the Department’s website.
For students studying English only through ELICOS, there will be no change
The following changes will apply to Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485) visas:
Criteria |
Old requirement |
New requirement |
|
The minimum test score for the English proficiency requirement |
IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent), with a minimum score of 5.0 for each component of the test (reading, writing, speaking and listening) |
IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent) with a minimum score of 5.5 for each component of the test (reading, writing, speaking and listening) |
|
The test validity window |
Applicants must provide evidence that they have completed an English language test no more than three years immediately before the date of the visa application. |
Applicants must provide evidence that they have completed an English language test no more than one year immediately before the date of the visa application.
|
Passport holders from Hong Kong and British National Overseas are not required to meet the increased minimum English language requirement.
Any questions?
We have a dedicated private client practice experienced in assisting Students navigate their Australian immigration journey. Contact us by email at [email protected] or phone +61 3 9016 0484 if you have any further queries.
