Genuine Student Requirement
for Student Visas
The Genuine Student (GS) Requirement is a criterion for student visa applications lodged on or after 23 March 2024, replacing the previous Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement.
It ensures that applicants are genuine in their intention to study in Australia, emphasizing that the primary purpose of the visa is education. The GS requirement also acknowledges that students may gain skills in Australia that are valuable for both local and global markets, potentially leading to permanent residency pathways.
Supporting Documents
It is highly recommended to attach relevant supporting documents to application to validate their claims.
These documents include:
1. Previous Study
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Academic transcripts and certificates of attainment.
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Education provider details and study duration.
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Records of study progress, especially if the applicant studied in Australia.
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Reasons for course or provider changes and explanations for study gaps.
2. Current Employment
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Employment details, including the employer’s name, address, position held, and employment duration.
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Contact information for someone who can confirm employment details.
3. Circumstances in Home Country or Country of Residence
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Evidence of personal ties, such as family, community, or employment.
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Explanation for not studying in the home country if similar courses are available.
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Documents showing economic circumstances, such as:
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Employment or business activities for the past 12 months.
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Potential job offers after course completion, including salary details.
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Income tax returns or bank statements.
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Evidence of political or civil unrest, military commitments, or other compelling reasons for leaving the home country.
4. Economic Circumstances
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Documentation of financial stability, such as:
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Bank statements.
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Proof of ongoing business activities.
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Employment history or offers.
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What the Genuine Student Statement Must Cover
1. Current Circumstances
What Needs to Be Included:
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Provide details about your family, community, employment, and economic ties in your home country.
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Explain why you are not pursuing a similar course locally, if available.
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Highlight any personal commitments, such as work or community obligations, and how they relate to your decision to study abroad.
How This Will Be Assessed:
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The strength of your ties to your home country will be evaluated. This includes family, employment, or property ownership, which indicate an intention to return after your studies.
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If political instability, civil unrest, or military service obligations are influencing your decision to leave your country, these factors will also be considered.
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Weak ties or insufficient reasons for not studying locally may raise concerns about your genuineness as a student.
2. Reason for Studying in Australia
What Needs to Be Included:
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Explain why you chose this specific course and education provider in Australia.
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Demonstrate your understanding of the course requirements, including its structure, duration, and how it aligns with your career aspirations.
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Describe your preparation for living and studying in Australia, such as knowledge of living costs and arrangements.
How This Will Be Assessed:
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Your level of research into the course and education provider will be examined. The immigration authorities want to see that you’ve made an informed decision rather than a random choice.
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A superficial or generic explanation of your choice may indicate a lack of genuine intention.
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Knowledge of living arrangements and preparation for life in Australia will also be evaluated to ensure you’re ready for this commitment.
3. Benefits of the Course
What Needs to Be Included:
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Clearly outline how completing the course will benefit your career and personal development.
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Specify how the qualification will improve your employment prospects or lead to a promotion in your home country or elsewhere.
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Mention any expected salary increases or professional opportunities after completing the course.
How This Will Be Assessed:
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Immigration authorities will determine if the course aligns with your educational background and career goals.
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They will assess the relevance of the course to your past education or work experience.
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If the course seems inconsistent with your career trajectory or lacks clear benefits, it may raise doubts about your intentions.
4. Additional Information
What Needs to Be Included:
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Include any other relevant details that strengthen your application, such as previous education or work experience, reasons for course changes, or explanations for gaps in study or employment.
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Provide details if you have previously studied in Australia or held a different visa type.
How This Will Be Assessed:
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Your overall educational and professional history will be reviewed to identify any inconsistencies.
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Immigration authorities will consider your visa and travel history, including refusals or cancellations, to assess compliance and intent.
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If you’ve previously studied in Australia, they’ll evaluate your academic progress, reasons for switching courses or providers, and any gaps in your study timeline.
Important Notes for Your Genuine Student Statement
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Generic or unsupported claims will carry little weight—ensure all statements are backed by evidence.
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Additional questions may apply if you are transitioning from a non-student visa or have held a student visa previously.
Your visa grant success heavily depends on what you include in this statement. A poorly written or incomplete statement can significantly impact your chances of approval. To avoid mistakes and ensure your application is strong and effective, contact us for professional and complimentary assistance provided when you choose to apply for your student visa with us.
Our team is here to guide you through the process, helping you craft a compelling Genuine Student Statement that meets all the requirements and maximizes your chances of success!
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Contact us today to discuss your plans and discover how Education Agency can help you embark on your journey Down Under with confidence.