The Australian Government has introduced the Genuine Student (GS) requirement, replacing the former Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Criteria. This comes into effect for applications lodged on and after 23 March 2024.
This requirement applies prospectively to student visa applications lodged before 23 March 2024. I.e. the new requirement will not apply to applications prior to this date. The previous applications will continue to be assessed these applications against the GTE requirement.
Under these criteria, the applicant for a student visa must be a genuine applicant for entry. The primary reason for their stay must be for education and as a student and be able to show an understanding that studying in Australia is the primary reason. Unlike the GTE requirement, the GS requirement is intended to include students who, after studying in Australia, develop skills Australia needs and who then go on to apply for permanent residence.
To be granted a student visa after 23 March 2024, all applicants must demonstrate they satisfy the genuine student criterion. Student dependents should show genuine student-dependent criteria.
When completing the online student visa application form, the applicant will be asked to address the GS criteria.
- Applicant’s current circumstances. This includes ties to family, community, employment and economic circumstances in the country in which you live.
- Explain to the applicant that they wish to pursue their educational course in Australia with this particular education provider. The students must have a proper understanding and be able to explain their knowledge of the requirements of the intended course, study, and live in Australia.
- The students will also need to explain how completing the course will benefit the applicant.
- Provide any other relevant information the applicant would like to include.
All the answers must be written in English, with a maximum of 150 words per question. An additional question is applicable for those applicants who have previously held a student visa or those who are lodging an application in Australia from a non-student visa, for example, from a Visit visa to a Student Visa. It is important to attach a comprehensive set of supporting documents.
The applicant’s overall personal circumstances will be taken into account when the Department assesses whether they are compliant with the genuine student (GS) Criteria.