What Is the Genuine Student Rule in Australia?

Thinking About Studying in Australia?

Are you planning to study in Australia? Before you apply for your student visa, it’s important to understand the new Genuine Student (GS) requirement. It replaced the older Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) rule in 2024.

This guide will help you understand what the GS requirement means, what questions you’ll need to answer, and how to prepare strong responses for your application.

What Is the Genuine Student (GS) Requirement?

The GS requirement is now a key part of the Australian student visa process. Instead of writing a long 300-word statement, students now need to answer a few short questions (each under 150 words) and provide supporting documents.

These answers help visa officers understand your true intention — that your main reason for going to Australia is to study, even if you later plan to explore work or permanent residence options.

Moreover, many universities will also review your GS answers during admission and may even ask about them in interviews.

What Questions Will You Need to Answer?

When completing your GS requirement, you’ll need to cover the following areas:

• Your current situation — family, community, job, and finances.
• Why you chose your specific course and Australia as your study destination.
• How your course will benefit your future career.
• Whether you have studied or lived in Australia before.
• If you hold another visa, why you are now applying for a Student visa.

All responses must be in English, concise (under 150 words), and supported by valid documents such as academic transcripts, bank statements, or employment details.

Additionally, visa officers will consider your personal background, education goals, and visa history while assessing your application.

Student Visa Declaration

Along with the GS requirement, you’ll also have to agree to a Student Visa Declaration, confirming that you:

• Understand what it means to be a genuine student.
• Will follow visa rules and update the Department of Home Affairs if your situation changes.
• Know that permanent residence after study is limited, and if you are not eligible, you must return home.

As of July 1, 2025, the visa fee increased from A$1,600 to A$2,000, so remember to pay the correct amount when applying.

What This Means for International Students

Overall, these new requirements make the process clearer and more personalized. To increase your chances of success:

• Start preparing your GS answers early.
• Gather all supporting documents.
• Practice your English language test in advance.
• Get feedback from friends or professionals before submitting your application.

By planning carefully, you can make your Australian study journey smoother and more successful.

Get in touch with SPS Global

Receive professional advice on any of your questions regarding Canadian immigration. get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Global. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).