As of March 23, 2024, two significant changes have occurred:
1.
The Genuine Student (GS) requirement now replaces the previous Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) standard for Student visas.
The aim of this change is to differentiate between students who truly want to study in Australia and those who are trying to migrate for reasons unrelated to education.
The GS assessment considers various factors, including the applicant’s circumstances, evidence of course progression, immigration history, compliance with visa conditions, and other relevant factors.
Student visa applicants no longer need to satisfy the GTE requirement that they genuinely intend to only stay in Australia temporarily and the good news is that the GS requirement acknowledges post-study pathways to permanent residence.
Please note that the GTE requirement remains applicable for Student Guardian visa applicants.
2.
Changes have also been made to English Language Requirements for Student and Temporary Graduate visas.
Temporary Graduate visa (TGV):
• Minimum IELTS score increased from 6.0 to 6.5.
• Test validity window reduced from 3 years to 1 year.
• TGV applicants now need to provide evidence that they have completed an English Language test within 1 year immediately before the date of the visa application.
Student visa:
• Minimum IELTS score increased from 5.5 to 6.
• Minimum IELTS score for packaged ELICOS courses increased from 4.5 to 5.0.
• No change for students studying exclusively through ELICOS.
• Minimum IELTS score for university foundation or pathway programs remains 5.5.
Increasing English language requirements for students undertaking VET and higher education courses requires a similar increase in score for those taking packaged ELICOS courses.
This ensures that students can transition successfully into their main course, with the appropriate level of English.