Key Points
- Australia introduced changes to the eligibility requirements for student visas and the Temporary Graduate Visa on March 23, 2024
Changes to Student Visas and Temporary Graduate Visas
The Government of Australia has announced significant changes effective for Student and Temporary Graduate visa applications lodged on or after March 23, 2024. Here are the critical updates:
Changes to Student Visas:
- The English proficiency requirement has increased from International English Language Testing System (IELTS) 5.5 to 6.0 (or equivalent)
- The minimum score for enrolling in an English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) has risen from IELTS 4.5 to 5.0 (or equivalent)
- Students in recognized university foundation or pathway programs must now achieve a score of IELTS 5.5 (or equivalent), listed on the Department’s website
- No changes for students studying English through ELICOS
Changes to Temporary Graduate Visas (TGV):
- The required score for Temporary Graduate Visas has increased from IELTS 6.0 to 6.5 (or equivalent)
- Passport holders from Hong Kong and British National Overseas (BNO) are exempt, needing a score of IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent)
- Beware of the shortened validity window. Now, it is one year before Temporary Graduate visa applications are processed
Looking Ahead
Continue to check Australia’s government website for the latest updates and information.
Written by: Jessie Butchley, Global Immigration Writer, Envoy Global
Source: Australian Government, Department of Home Affairs
