GTE to be replaced by GS requirement for student visa applications on 23 March 2024

Highlights

• Changes of the new Genuine Student (GS) requirement to the current process

• How do you prepare yourself for the new GS requirement?

As part of Australia’s alterations to the application process and evaluation criteria for the Student (subclass 500) Visa, the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement will be replaced by the Genuine Student (GS) requirement.

Changes of the new Genuine Student (GS) requirement to the current process

In regards to the purpose, both GTE and GS aim to help the Department determine whether the applicant for a student visa genuinely intends to pursue studies in Australia.

However, instead of GTE’s 300-word statement, it will be replaced with GS’ targeted questions this coming 23rd March 2024. Some of the targeted questions will cover the following:

• For offshore applicants

  • details of your current circumstances, including ties to family, community, employment, and economic circumstances;

  • an explanation for the choice of course and reasons for choosing Australia as a study destination;

  • what benefits the course provides you

• For applicants with a study history in Australia

  • provide details of their study history

• For applicants holding a visa other than a Student visa

  • provide reasons for applying for a Student visa; and any other relevant information you wish to provide.

The insights from these questions will give the Department an understanding of the applicant and their motivations for desiring to pursue studies in Australia.

How do you prepare yourself for the new GS requirement?

The new GS requirement might pose a challenge for most Student Visa applicants, however, it is easy to achieve if you are prepared enough before the application process. Here are the things you need to be aware of:

• Work or Permanent Residency Visas are not guaranteed

  You must understand that while opportunities for post-study residency are available, they are not assured and require a sincere commitment to adhering to visa regulations. Thus, understanding your migration goal is very important before you decide to apply for the Student Visa program.

• Prepare answers to possible questions

  Although there are no definite questions for the new GS requirement, it’s important to prepare possible answers. Below are a few examples that the Department might ask during the interview:

  • Why did you pick Australia for your studies?

  • Can you describe the course you've chosen?

  • How will this course help your career?

  • How are you financing your studies?

  • Do you plan to study further after completing this course?

  • How will you manage your living expenses?

  • What job opportunities do you see after your course?

  • Why should you be granted a student visa?

  • What will you do if your visa application is denied?

  • How will you prove your intent to return home after your studies?

• Excel in your interview

  • Review and double-check the necessary documents before the interview

  • Make sure that your answers and responses during the interview coincide with your application

  • Although it’s a nerve-wracking experience, make sure you still have the confidence and proper demeanor to answer the questions

If you are having a hard time planning your pathway to Australia, the best thing to do is ask for assistance from certified migration experts. At Think Visa, we specialize in processing visas in these complex situations. By ensuring that all the essential documents are submitted, our team of skilled migration consultants can help you get through the process. Start your migration process with people you could trust.