Student Visa Australia 2025: Genuine Student Test, Requirements & What to Do If Refused
Thinking of studying in Australia? The Student Visa (subclass 500) remains the main pathway to full-time study in Australia. With increased scrutiny under the Genuine Student Test (GS Test) and updated requirements in 2025, a well-prepared application is more important than ever. This guide explains the key criteria, how to prepare a compelling GS Test submission, and steps to take if your visa is refused.
Key takeaways
- The Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows full-time study in Australia — and limited work rights during study.
- Applicants must pass the new Genuine Student (GS) Test assessing academic intent, finances and immigration history.
- Strong financial evidence, a clear GS Test statement and correct course selection greatly improve approval chances.
- If refused, onshore applicants may have limited review rights — act quickly and seek expert help.
What is the Student Visa (Subclass 500)?
The Subclass 500 visa permits international students to study full-time at CRICOS-registered providers in Australia. It also provides limited work rights (typically up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods) and may lead to post-study work options, depending on your course and qualification.
Main benefits
- Study at Australian universities, TAFE and registered providers
- Work part-time during study and full-time during scheduled breaks
- Pathways to Temporary Graduate and other post-study visas
Core Student Visa requirements
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) — You must hold a valid CoE for a CRICOS-registered course (higher education, VET, ELICOS etc.).
- Genuine Student Test (GS Test) — Introduced in March 2024 as the replacement for the GTE, the GS Test evaluates whether you are a genuine student: your study intent, academic progression, finances, immigration history and ties to your home country. The GS Test is assessed by case officers from your application and supporting statement/evidence.
- Financial capacity — You must show enough funds to cover living costs, tuition and dependants (if included). Official thresholds change; submit credible bank statements, loan letters or sponsor documents.
- English language — Provide accepted test results unless exempt. Requirements vary by course and provider.
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) — OSHC is required for the duration of your stay on a student visa.
- Health & character — Medical checks and police certificates may be required depending on your circumstances.
Genuine Student Test — practical tips
The GS Test is not a single exam — it’s an assessment of the totality of your application. Make your written GS Test statement clear and tightly evidenced:
- Explain why the course: How does it fit your prior study and career plan? Why this provider and course level?
- Show career progression: Demonstrate how the course advances your employment prospects in your home country or internationally.
- Financial transparency: Provide verifiable bank records, loan approvals, sponsor letters and explain any large deposits.
- Address immigration history: If you have previous refusals or visa issues, explain circumstances honestly and provide supporting documents.
- Evidence ties to home country: Family, employment offers, property, or strong professional prospects help show you intend to study then return.
How to avoid common mistakes
- Don’t submit incomplete or inconsistent documents.
- Avoid last-minute applications — allow time for correct documentation and OSHC.
- Choose courses that logically follow your academic and career history.
- Provide translations for non-English documents and certified copies where required.
What to do if your student visa is refused
- Read the refusal carefully: Identify primary reasons (GS Test failure, insufficient funds, health/character issues).
- Check your review rights: Onshore refusals may attract review rights at the ART/AAT — time limits apply. Offshore applicants often have fewer review options.
- Act quickly: Appeals or reapplications have strict deadlines. Gather new evidence and legal submissions early.
- Seek professional help: Immigration lawyers can prepare strong review submissions or reapply with comprehensive supporting evidence.
Checklist: decision-ready student visa application
- Current CoE for a CRICOS course
- Detailed GS Test statement addressing all relevant factors
- Verifiable financial documents (bank statements, sponsor letters)
- English test results or evidence of exemption
- OSHC confirmation
- Health and character documents (if required)
Frequently asked questions
- What is the Genuine Student Test?
- The GS Test assesses whether you are a genuine student with a legitimate study purpose and sufficient funds. It replaced the GTE requirement in March 2024.
- Can I work on a student visa?
- Yes — typically up to 48 hours per fortnight during study terms, and unlimited work during scheduled course breaks (subject to current rules).
- What if I fail the GS Test?
- A failed GS Test usually leads to refusal. If you are onshore, you may have review rights — seek legal advice immediately to explore options.
- Can I include family members on my application?
- Yes. Dependants may be included, but you must demonstrate additional funds and adequate OSHC for each dependant.
