The Australian government has announced several changes to the Student Visa process, effective in 2024. These updates are to improve the experience for international students. It is also to ensure that Australia remains a top destination for higher education.
Here’s a breakdown of the key changes in Australia’s student visa requirements in 2024 and their impact:
· New Financial Requirements
As of 10 May 2024, individual students and students with their guardians will need to show a financial capacity of $29,710 AUD to apply for a Student or Student Guardian visa. This ensures students can support themselves in Australia.
A student guardian accompanies a student under 18 years old.
Impact: You must prove you have enough funds for living expenses.
· TOEFL iBT Reinstated
The TOEFL iBT is now accepted for student visas by all Australian universities. Tests taken between 26 July 2023 and 4 May 2024 are not eligible. However, tests taken before 26 July 2023 will be valid for two years.
Impact: You may need to retake the TOEFL iBT if you have taken the test within restricted dates.
· Introduction of GS Requirement
Starting 23 March 2024, the Genuine Student (GS) requirement will replace the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. The GS includes targeted questions to better assess your intention to study in Australia. You’ll answer these questions within the online student visa application form.
What are GS and GTE?
Both GS and GTE ensure you’re a genuine student coming for education and plan to return home after your studies. The GS may focus more on your study plans, future goals, and Australia’s skill needs, potentially leading to permanent residency.
Impact: You will only need to answer targeted questions such as:
Ø Present situation (family, employment, etc.)
Ø Motivation for selecting your course and institution in Australia
Ø Career aspirations and how your studies support them
· Updated English Language Requirements
Starting March 23, 2024, updated English language requirements apply to Student Visa and Temporary Graduate Visa applications. Achieving higher test scores, such as a minimum of IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) for a Student visa, is now necessary.
Impact: Meeting the new English language proficiency standards might be more challenging.
· Changes to Post-Study Work Visa
Starting July 1, 2024, the length of post-study work visas has been shortened. This adjustment allows graduates to gain work experience and showcase their skills to Australian employers. Those who secure skilled employment during this period may apply for the new 4-year Skills in Demand visa, which offers a pathway to permanent residency. The new duration is:
Ø Bachelor degree (including honours): Up to 2 years
Ø Masters (coursework and extended): Up to 2 years
Ø Masters (research) and doctoral degree (PhD): Up to 3 years
Impact: Pakistani students now have less time under the Temporary Graduate visa to acquire work experience in Australia after completing their studies.
· New Age Limit
Effective 1 July 2024, the maximum eligible age for Temporary Graduate Visa (TGV) applicants is 35 years. Masters (research) and doctoral degree (PhD) graduates remain eligible if they are under 50 years of age.
Impact: This change may restrict opportunities for older Pakistani students interested in studying and gaining work experience in Australia.
· Limitations on Onshore Student Visa Applications
From 1 July 2024, holders of certain visas, including Visitor and Temporary Graduate visas, can no longer apply for Student visas while in Australia. If you’re interested in studying in Australia, you’ll need to apply for a Student visa from outside the country. This means meeting all the eligibility requirements and submitting your application before traveling to Australia.
Impact: You can no longer apply for a student visa from within Australia if they hold a Visitor or TGV visa.
Are You Overwhelmed and Don’t Know Where to Start?
The 2024 updates to Australia’s Student Visa program present both challenges and opportunities for international students. Understanding these new requirements and preparing accordingly is essential for a successful study experience in Australia. At HR Consultants, we stay informed about all visa changes to ensure a seamless application process.
Our experienced counselors offer personalized guidance on financial planning and assist with application preparation. We also offer specialized TOEFL and IELTS preparation to ensure you meet language requirements.
You can count on HR Consultants to help you reach your study abroad dream.
