As part of the Australian Government’s Migration Strategy, that was released on 11 December 2023, a number of changes concerning Student visas (subclass 500) have been implemented in the first half of 2024. These include:
1. Genuine Student (GS) requirement
From 23 March 2024, the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement was replaced with the new Genuine Student (GS) requirement, which replaced the previous 300-word statement with a list of targeted questions providing the decision makes information to determine if you can be considered to be a genuine student in Australia.
2. New English language requirements
From 23 March 2024, new English language requirements were introduced as follows:
The minimum test score for a Student visa was increased from IELTS score 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent);
The minimum test score for students undertaking an ELICOS course before their main course of study has increased from IELTS score 4.5 to 5.0 (or equivalent);
The minimum test score required for students undertaking university foundation or pathway programs that deliver reputable English language training is IELTS 5.5 (or equivalent).
3. New financial capacity requirement
As of 10 May 2024, the financial requirement for Student visas was changed. At a minimum, you must have enough money to pay for:
Your travel;
12 months of your course fees (or pro rata fees, if your course is less than 12 months);
12 months of living costs for you and any family members who come with you to Australia (or pro rata fees, if you are staying less than 12 months); and
School fees for any school-age children who accompany you (or pro rata fees, if the child will be at school for less than 12 months).
12-month living costs are for:
Primary applicants: $29,710
De facto partners/spouses: $10,394
Your dependent children: $4,449.
4. Onshore Student visa application restrictions
As of 1 July 2024, holders of certain visas* will no longer be eligible to apply for a Student visa in Australia (onshore). These visas now also include:
Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate)
Subclass 600 (Visitor)
Subclass 601 (Electronic Travel Authority)
Subclass 602 (Medical Treatment)
Subclass 651 (eVisitor)
Subclass 988 (Maritime Crew)
5. Fee increase
As of 1 July 2024, the Student visa application fee for the primary applicant is $1,600; for de facto partners / spouses $1,190 and for children $390. The Subsequent Temporary Application Charge remains at $700 per applicant.
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