Requirements for Genuine Student Test | Big News on 500 Visa

The Australian Government released a new migration strategy on December 11, 2023, announcing major changes in the Australian immigration system. The new migration strategy focuses on the education sector to improve the quality of education by preventing the exploitation of international students.

“The Albanese Government’s Migration Strategy sends a clear message that we will act to prevent the exploitation of students and protect Australia’s reputation as a high-quality international education provider.”

-Jason Clare (Minister of Education)

According to the new migration strategy, the Australian Government is going to replace the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) with a Genuine Student Test (GST). So, if you are planning to apply for a student visa in Australia, understanding the requirements for Genuine Student Test is important.

Highlights of Genuine Student Test

Here is the summary of the main points that you need to know regarding the Genuine Student Test;

• The GST requirements will be implemented on those student visa applications that are submitted on or after March 23, 2024. 
• Applications that were submitted before March 23, 2024 will be evaluated on the basis of existing criteria and requirements.
• The Genuine Temporary Entrant requirement will be implemented for the applicants of Student Guardian visa.

To know more about the replacement of GTE to GST, watch this video:

Requirements for Genuine Student Test (GST)

The new strategy replaces the requirement of a 300 word statement with targeted questions in the application form. These targeted questions will cover a comprehensive overview of the candidate and his motivation to study in Australia. 

These questions will ask you to provide the following information with required evidences;

• You will have to provide information on your current situation, including your job, financial stability, and relationship to your family and community.
• You will have to give an explanation of the course you selected. Moreover, provide them with the reasons that led you to decide to study in Australia.
• You must be aware of the advantages that you will receive from the course.
• If you have studied in Australia in the past, you will have to provide data on your educational background. 
• If you are not a student and applying for a student visa you will have to explain the purpose behind your student visa application.

If you are still confused about the requirements for Genuine Student Test (GST), seeking professional assistance is better.  Book your free appointment now.

Changes in Student Visa Declaration Form

The Student visa declaration form will be changed to make sure that the applicants testify the following statements;

• A student visa applicant must understand the meaning of a genuine student in Australia.
• It is compulsory for applicants to read, understand and agree to follow the terms and conditions of a student visa in Australia. 
• If the applicant makes any changes to their application form, they must notify about their changed circumstances to the Department of Home Affairs.
• A student visa applicant must understand the available post-study PR pathways. They need to comprehend that the Government will allow only a limited number of eligible students to stay in the country. Those who are not able to stay in Australia legally must leave the country.

When will the Requirements for Genuine Student Test be Implemented?

The requirements for Genuine Student Test are not implemented yet. The Australian Government will issue two new ministerial directives replacing the Ministerial direction No. 69.  The new directions will focus on the implementation of new requirements for the Genuine Student Test starting on March 23,  2024. In addition to this, they will also ensure the assessment of visa applications that were lodged before March 23,2024 on the basis of GTE requirements.

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Contact Us For More Information

Further information regarding the latest changes will be announced through the official website of the Department of Home Affairs. However, if you have any queries or confusions, you can contact our team at The Migration.

We are an Australian-based registered company that provides authentic and genuine consultation services to our clients. We have a team of experienced MARA-certified agents in Australia. Our immigration lawyers will provide you with authentic consultation by assessing your skills, qualifications and work experience. Stay tuned for more updates.