Australia changes rules for student visas: Australia has introduced a new visa application process for students from 1 January 2025 all student visa application must include a confirmation of enrollment (CoE)The Australian Department of Home Affairs will no longer accept letters of offer from individuals applying for a student visa Not providing a CoE at the time of application will make an application invalid. Visa decision-makers cannot assess an invalid application.
The change will only impact applications lodged on or after 1 January 2025. Visa applications lodged before that date using only a Letter of Offer from an education provider are not affected.this Applicants must now secure admission, pay tuition fees, and obtain a CoE before applying for a visa.
Those unable to get a CoE before their current visa expires may need to explore alternative visa options or leave Australia to comply with immigration laws. This article will help you to understand the changes.
What is confirmation of enrollment ( CoE)?
A CoE is an official electronic document issued by Australian educational institutions confirming a student’s enrolment in a registered course. It includes details such as the student’s information, course of study, programme duration, and fees.
Why are the changes necessary?
The change ensures that only genuine students are granted visas, effectively filtering out fraudulent applications, because Australian authorities observed cases where individuals entered the country on student visas without enrolling in educational programmes. Notably, exemptions are granted to Foreign Affairs, Defence, and secondary exchange students, who can continue using alternative evidence of course enrolment.
This reform is part of Australia’s ongoing efforts to tighten immigration policies while maintaining its appeal as a top destination for international students. Complementing this, the government introduced Ministerial Direction 111 in December 2024, replacing Direction 107, to expedite the processing of offshore student visa applications.
New rules for Australia changes rules for student visas: The GET is changed to GS
The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria has been replaced with Genuine Student (GS). Under the GTE students had to explain in 300 words why they wanted to stay in Australia temporarily. Under the new rule, you need to be a genuine student. You will be asked a few questions that you need to answer. Therefore, you may have to explain the reasons for choosing the particular university, or course.
English required: The minimum English a candidate needs to apply for a study visa for Australia is at least 6.0 in the IELTS examination to obtain a student visa. Those applying for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) need to secure at least a 6.5 IELTS score.
Finances required to stay: the finance requirement has been increased 21% from the previous amount which is from AUD 24,505 TO AUD 29710.
Skills and demand visa: The Skills in Demand visa provides 3 main pathways for workers. That is, the Essential Skills Pathway, Core Skills Pathway, and Specialist Skills Pathway. Those who have completed their studies can apply for a visa in this category.
Conclusion
Australia’s updated student visa regulations, including the mandatory Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and Genuine Student (GS) criteria, aim to enhance visa integrity while ensuring a genuine international student community. With increased financial and English requirements, these changes highlight the importance of careful preparation for aspiring students. By balancing stricter policies with robust education and work opportunities, Australia reinforces its position as a premier destination for high-quality global education.
FAQs for Australia changes rules for student visas
What is the new requirement for a student visa application starting 1 January 2025?
From 1 January 2025, all student visa applications must include a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Applications submitted without a CoE will be considered invalid.
What happens if I apply with only a Letter of Offer?
Applications lodged on or after 1 January 2025 without a CoE will be deemed invalid. Applications submitted before this date using a Letter of Offer are not affected.
What is a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)?
A CoE is an official electronic document issued by Australian educational institutions confirming a student’s enrolment in a registered course. It contains details about the student, the course, duration, and fees.
Who is exempt from the CoE requirement?
Foreign Affairs, Defence, and secondary exchange students can use alternative evidence of enrolment instead of a CoE.
