Effective from March 23, 2024, the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for student visas has been replaced by the Genuine Student (GS) requirement. However, this change only applies to student visa applications submitted on or after the mentioned date; applications lodged before March 23, 2024, will still be evaluated against the GTE requirement.
The GS requirement mandates that all student visa applicants demonstrate genuine intent to study in Australia as their primary reason for visa application. It aims to accommodate students who, upon completing their studies, acquire skills needed by Australia and subsequently apply for permanent residence.
To fulfill the GS criteria, applicants must provide detailed information about their current circumstances, rationale behind choosing Australia and the specific educational institution, anticipated benefits of completing the chosen course, and any additional pertinent information.
Applicants with previous student visas or those applying from a non-student visa category have an extra question to address. Alongside the application form, supporting documents must be submitted via ImmiAccount. It's crucial for applicants to substantiate their claims with evidence, as generic statements hold less weight in the GS assessment. Overall personal circumstances are taken into consideration during the assessment of genuine student status.
The Genuine Student (GS) criterion assesses a student's genuine intention to study in Australia, considering various factors such as their circumstances, immigration history, compliance with visa conditions, and post-study pathways. This criterion evaluates the applicant's situation in their home country, including reasons for not studying there, personal ties, economic circumstances, and political unrest. Additionally, it considers potential situations in Australia, including knowledge of the proposed course, previous study, living arrangements, and financial stability. The value of the course to the student's future employment prospects is also assessed, along with their immigration history, including visa and travel history, previous visa applications, refusals, or cancellations. For minor applicants, the intentions of their parent, legal guardian, or spouse are taken into account.