Highlights:
- Australia will implement the Genuine Student (GS) requirement on March 23, 2024, replacing the previous Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement.
- This new measure aims to ensure that international students genuinely intend to obtain quality education in Australia.
- The GTE requirement will still apply to Student Guardian visa applicants.
Genuine Student Requirement:
As outlined in the Migration Strategy released on December 11, 2023, Australia will replace the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement with the Genuine Student (GS) requirement starting March 23, 2024. Applications submitted after this date will be evaluated under the new GS criteria.
Implementation of the New GS Requirement:
Following discussions with education sector representatives, the Australian Government implemented the GS requirement to better identify students genuinely seeking quality education in Australia without the intention of future migration.
The previous 300-word statement in the student visa application form will be replaced with targeted questions to provide visa decision-makers with a comprehensive overview of the applicant.
The targeted questions will address:
1. Details of the applicant’s current conditions, including family, community, employment, and financial status.
2. Explanation of their chosen course and reasons for selecting Australia as their study destination.
3. Benefits provided by the chosen course.
4. Study history, including any previous study in Australia.
5. Reasons for applying for a student visa if the applicant holds other visas.
Student Visa Declaration:
Applicants must understand the purposes of studying in Australia, commit to student visa conditions, notify the Department of Home Affairs of any changes, and acknowledge that while post-study pathways exist, those unable to remain lawfully must depart Australia.
