Australia: Student Visa Language Eligibility Updates

Key Points  

• Australia introduced changes to the eligibility requirements for student visas and the Temporary Graduate Visa on 23 March 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 23 March 2024. Here are the key updates: 

Changes to Student Visas: 

• The English proficiency requirement has increased from 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 for Temporary Graduate visa applications. 

Looking Ahead  

Continue to check the government of Australia’s website and Envoy Global’s website for the latest updates and information.