The move, which is expected to have a profound impact on the global student community, underlines Australia’s commitment to maintaining its status as a destination of choice for higher education.
Here’s a summary of what’s changed so far, as announced by the Australian Department of Home Affairs and the Department of Education.
Increased financial proof
The Australian government has stipulated an increase in the minimum savings required to obtain a student visa.
Since October last year, international students have been required to demonstrate savings amounting to AUD$24,505 (US$15,943), an increase of 17% from the previous level.
Stricter assessment
Prospective students must now take a Real Student Test (GST), a measure introduced by the Australian government last November as part of its visa application process for international students.
This new test is designed to assess whether applicants actually intend to temporarily stay in Australia for study purposes. The GST replaces the old requirement for bona fide temporary participants. It aims to distinguish and favor those people who are more likely to have a primary focus on studying rather than working and contributing skills needed to the Australian economy.
Indeed, students pursuing lower degree levels are most likely to be refused a visa.
Higher English levels
The English proficiency requirement for undergraduate international students has increased from IELTS 5.5 to 6 and for postgraduate programs from 6 to 6.5.
Ranking of establishments
The Australian Department of Home Affairs announced last December that it would rank universities based on their level of risk.
Based on data from students who have already violated visa rules, universities are classified into three groups. International students applying to Group 1 will be given priority.
For individuals in Groups 2 and 3, the visa application process will take longer, requiring additional proof of English proficiency and financial capacity.
As a result of this latest policy, several Australian universities have announced so far this year that they will rescind admission offers from international students or request the withdrawal of applications in order to protect their reputations.
Reduce post-study extension
From the middle of this year, Australia will adjust its post-study employment rights policy for international students, reducing the length of time international graduates can stay in the country for work purposes.
Previously, the Australian government had extended the duration of post-study work visas for undergraduate, master’s and doctoral students in certain programs, allowing them to stay for up to 4-6 years depending on their level of studies.
These durations will now revert to the original 2-3 years, according to the Australian Department of Education’s announcement last month.
