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If your educational aspirations lead you to Australia, obtaining an Australian student visa is a pivotal step. Meeting the specific requirements for an Australian student visa is essential, encompassing the following facets:
- Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Condition
- Financial Prerequisites
- Proficiency in English
- Health and Character Criteria
In addition, you’ll need to navigate the Australian Student Visa application process, which includes filling out the application form, paying the designated fee, and potentially attending an interview. Let’s explore this process in detail.
Understanding the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Criterion
The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, implemented in November 2011, necessitates that visa applicants demonstrate a true intent to stay in Australia temporarily. This intention primarily revolves around pursuing studies, accompanying a student as a dependent, or acting as a guardian. The Department of Home Affairs evaluates various factors to determine your eligibility, including your circumstances in your home country, potential circumstances in Australia, the relevance of your chosen course to your future plans, and your past immigration history. Depending on your situation, fulfilling the GTE requirement may require an interview at the nearest Australian embassy or consulate, or you may only need to complete the visa application form.
Completing the Australian Student Visa Application
All international students must apply for the Student Visa (Subclass 500), which is submitted online. Before commencing the application process, you must obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment (COE) or a Letter of Offer confirming your acceptance into a CRICOS-registered course. The COE is provided as an online code, to be entered during the online visa application. Additionally, you may be required to make a tuition fee deposit. While changing to a different course at the same or higher level within Australia is feasible, transitioning to a lower-level course or a non-AQF course would entail a new visa application. There’s also the option to package your studies by progressing from one course to another.
Meeting Australian Student Visa Requirements
As you complete the online visa application form, you must provide evidence to satisfy the Australian student visa requirements:
- Financial Requirements: You must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition, travel, and living expenses. The annual living expense requirement, as of February 2018, is AU$21,041 (~US$14,185). If you have dependents, you must also show the capacity to cover their living costs and potential school fees. Alternatively, you can provide evidence of financial support from your spouse or parents, indicating a minimum annual income of AU$62,222 (~US$41,949).
- English Proficiency Requirement: If you’re not from an English-speaking country (and haven’t completed at least five years of study in such a country), you’ll need to prove proficiency in English. Accepted language proficiency tests include IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and CAE. The required score varies based on whether you’re starting a full degree, undertaking a foundation course, or enrolling in an ELICOS program.
- Health Requirements: Some students may be required to undergo a medical and/or radiological examination, particularly if they intend to pursue careers in fields like medicine, dentistry, or nursing. If instructed, you must visit a doctor approved by the Australian immigration department.
Except for students from Sweden, Belgium, or Norway, acquiring Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory. You can obtain this coverage through your university or one of the approved providers, including Australian Health Management, BUPA Australia, Medibank Private, Allianz Global Assistance, or nib OSHC. The cost varies based on the provider and coverage duration.
