The Australian government has made significant modifications to the rules related to foreign education.
Australia is a popular study abroad destination among international students. Recently, the Australian government has made several changes to the rules governing overseas education and the settlement of expatriates in the country.
The Australian Government’s Immigration Strategy was released on 11 December 2023. The strategy is designed to further enhance the integrity and quality of international education programs in Australia, better protect international students and help graduates achieve their career goals.
Australia New Rules for International Students 2024:
New Financial Capacity Requirement
TOEFL iBT is again a valid test for student visa purposes and accepted by all Australian universities. However, tests taken between July 26, 2023 and May 4, 2024 are invalid. Tests taken before July 26, 2023, will be valid for two years. This important development provides opportunities for anyone wishing to study, work or relocate to Australia by allowing them to demonstrate their English proficiency through the TOEFL iBT test.
New True Student (GS) Requirements.
As of March 23, 2024, the new Genuine Student (GS) requirement replaced the Temporary Genuine Entrant (GTE) requirement with a list of targeted questions. GS requirements are an essential part of the student visa application process. The new GS requirement replaces the previous 300-word statement with a series of focused questions. These questions tell visa decision makers about the student and their reasons for studying in Australia.
New English Language Requirements:
When submitting a visa application, international students wishing to study in Australia must provide evidence of their fluency in the English language. From 23 March 2024, new English language requirements will apply to all student visa and temporary postgraduate visa applications.
Upcoming Changes To Studying in Australia
Temporary Graduate Visa Length to be Reduced
The duration of the work visa will change after studies. However, a temporary graduate visa in Australia will still give you time to gain valuable work experience and demonstrate your skills to Australian employers.
If you find work in a skilled post during your post-study work, you may be eligible to apply for a new 4-year Essential Skills Visa. This visa provides a clear pathway to permanent residence. As agreed in the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement, the initial residence period for Indian citizens will not change. This change is scheduled to take effect from July 1, 2024.
New Age Limit for Temporary Graduate visa
The maximum age for applicants for a temporary postgraduate visa will be reduced to 35 years or less. This amendment is expected to come into effect on July 1, 2024.
