Australia has recently announced significant changes to its student visa program, impacting international students planning to study Down Under. As of July 1, 2024, the cost of student visas has surged by a whopping 125%. Let’s delve into the details of these changes:
- New Financial Capacity Requirement:
- Effective May 10, 2024, the financial requirement for individual student visa applicants will be set at $29,710. This amount applies to both Student and Student Guardian visas.
- Any visa applications lodged on or after this date must meet this financial threshold.
- TOEFL iBT Reinstated:
- TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language, internet-based test) is once again a valid language proficiency test for student visa purposes.
- All Australian universities now accept TOEFL iBT scores.
- Note that tests taken between July 26, 2023, and May 4, 2024, are not considered valid. Tests taken before July 26, 2023, remain valid for two years.
- Genuine Student (GS) Requirement:
- From March 23, 2024, the Genuine Student (GS) requirement replaces the previous Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement.
- Applicants must answer a targeted set of questions to demonstrate their genuine intent to study in Australia.
- New English Language Requirements:
- As of March 23, 2024, updated English language requirements apply to all Student Visa and Temporary Graduate Visa applications.
- Temporary Graduate Visa Changes:
- The length of post-study work visas has been adjusted. However, Australia’s Temporary Graduate visa still allows graduates to gain valuable work experience and showcase their skills to local employers.
- If you secure employment in a skilled job during your post-study work period, you may be eligible for the new 4-year Skills in Demand visa, which offers a clearer pathway to permanent residency.
- Initial stay periods for Indian nationals remain unchanged, as agreed in the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement.
- Age Limit for Temporary Graduate Visa:
- Starting July 1, 2024, the maximum eligible age for Temporary Graduate visa (TGV) applicants has been reduced to 35 years.
- However, Masters (research) and doctoral degree (PhD) graduates can still apply for a TGV if they are under 50 years old.
- Onshore Student Visa Applications Restricted:
- From July 1, 2024, certain visa holders (including Visitors and Temporary Graduates) can no longer apply for Student visas while in Australia.
These changes aim to enhance the integrity and quality of Australia’s international education programs while supporting students’ career aspirations. Prospective students should stay informed about these updates to ensure a smooth visa application process.
Remember, staying up-to-date with visa regulations is crucial for international students planning to study in Australia.
