Why is Australia getting stricter?
Australia has tightened visa rules for international students amid rising migration. The stricter regulations announced are part of efforts to manage international student influx.
Here are the four major changes you should know
Language proficiency
English language requirements for student and graduate visas have been increased.
Temporary Graduate visa applicants will now need to get an IELTS score of 6.5, up from 6.0. Those applying for a student visa will need a minimum score of 6.0.
Financial proof requirements
The financial requirements for student visa applicants have also been increased. Students who want to study in the country will now need to demonstrate savings of at least $24,505 - a 17 per cent hike from previous levels.
Educational intent
A new "genuine student test" has been introduced to further crack down on international students who look to come to Australia primarily to work, while the imposition of "no further stay" conditions will be used on more visitor visas.
The Genuine Student Test replaces the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement and will be used filter out applicants who might not be coming to Australia with genuine academic goals. Applications deemed high-risk will undergo more rigorous scrutiny.
Clampdown on institutes
Under the new rules, the Australian government has the power to suspend education providers from recruiting international students if they repeatedly break rules.
