Australia Tightens Student Visa Rules: As of this month, Indian students aspiring to study in Australia will face more stringent visa requirements.
With an escalating migration trend, Australia imposed tougher visa rules for international students on March 23. For student and graduate visa applicants, the English language proficiency requirement has been raised.
Aside from that, the Australian government now has the authority to stop educational institutions from enrolling international students if they persistently violate regulations.
Australia Tightens Student Visa Rules:
What prospective Indian students need to know:
Language proficiency standards revised
In order to apply for a temporary graduate visa, applicants will need an IELTS score of 6.5, up from 6.0. To apply for a student visa, applicants will need a minimum score of 6.0.
Requirements for financial proof have been increased
Student visa applicants will also have to demonstrate access to savings of at least $24,505, which is a 17 percent increase from previous requirements.
Authentic educational intent is emphasized
A new criterion, known as the Genuine Student (GS) requirement, will scrutinise applicants’ intentions behind pursuing education in Australia more closely. In addition to course selection, academic progression and past immigration history, compliance with visa conditions will be taken into account.
Tests are taken by genuine students
The Australian government has introduced a brand-new Genuine Student Test to further authenticate the influx of international students.
This test replaces the current Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and is intended to filter out candidates who might not be coming to Australia with genuine academic goals. As a result of these new rules, high-risk applications will undergo a more rigorous examination.
Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil said the move will continue to drive down migration levels while delivering on the commitments in the migration strategy.
To ease workforce shortages after COVID-19, Australia increased its migration cap in 2022. As a result of this influx, primarily from India, China, and the Philippines, labour supply has been boosted while housing and construction have been under unprecedented pressure.
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