Australian Student Visa New Rules 2025: What International Students Must Know

If you’re planning to study in Australia in 2025, it’s crucial to understand the latest Australian student visa requirements, updated fees, and new policy changes. Australia remains one of the most popular destinations for international students, offering world-class universities, vibrant cities, and a pathway to valuable work experience.

However, the Australian government has introduced stricter financial proof, higher English proficiency standards, and tighter scrutiny under the Genuine Student requirement, all aimed at ensuring only genuine applicants are approved. These changes affect everything, from how much you must show in savings to how many hours you can work during term time.

Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing your visa, this comprehensive guide will help you stay informed, avoid common mistakes, and prepare a strong application that meets all updated criteria.

What Is the Australian Student Visa?

The Australian student visa (subclass 500) allows international students to live, study, and gain work experience in Australia legally.

With this visa, you can:

• Enroll in full-time courses at government-registered institutions (CRICOS providers)
• Bring eligible family members, such as your partner or children, as dependents
• Work limited hours (currently 48 hours per fortnight) while studying to help cover living expenses
• Stay in Australia for the duration of your course plus additional time for graduation or travel
• Apply for a Post-Study Work Visa (subclass 485) after completing your studies if you meet the eligibility criteria
•  

This visa is the main pathway for international students to access Australia’s high-quality education system and explore future work and migration opportunities.

New Australian Student Visa Rules in 2025

Here are the major updates announced by the Department of Home Affairs:

Increased Financial Requirements

From 2025, students must show higher savings evidence to cover living costs:

• AUD $29,710/year for living expenses (up from AUD $24,505)
• Additional funds if bringing dependents
•  

Tip: Keep updated as these amounts are revised annually.

Higher English Language Requirements

New minimum English test scores are required:

• IELTS: Overall 6.0 (no band below 5.5)
• TOEFL iBT: Minimum 64
• PTE Academic: Minimum 50
• Cambridge: 169
•  

This change aims to ensure students are ready for academic study and work.

Work Hour Rules

From July 2023, and continuing in 2025:

• 48 hours per fortnight (24 hrs/week) during study periods
• Unlimited hours during semester breaks
•  

This replaces the temporary unlimited work rights introduced during COVID-19.

If you want a detailed guide about work hour rules, you can refer to Student Visa Working Hours in Australia 2025.

Streamlined Genuine Student (GS) Requirement

The previous Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement is being replaced by a Genuine Student (GS) test, focusing on:

• Academic background and progression
• Language capability
• Financial capacity
• Post-study intentions
•  

This change tightens scrutiny of applications.

Health Insurance & Medical Exams

All students must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) throughout their stay.

Medical Tests May Include:

• Chest X-ray
• HIV, Hepatitis screening
• General health exam
•  

Requirements vary by country of origin and length of stay.

Australian Student Visa Fees in 2025

Here’s the updated fee structure:

Fees are subject to change, therefore confirm on the Department of Home Affairs site before applying.

Australian Student Visa Requirements

To apply, you’ll need:

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
• Valid passport
• OSHC policy
• Financial evidence covering tuition, living costs, travel
• English test results
• SOP letter (statement of purpose)
• Completed Form 157A
• Biometrics and medical checks as requested
•  

SOP Letter for Australian Student Visa

The Statement of Purpose (SOP) is critical. It should:

• Explain why you chose Australia
• Detail your course and institution
• Outline your academic and professional goals
• Demonstrate intent to comply with visa conditions
•  

Tip: Be genuine and clear, generic or templated SOPs can lead to refusals.

Australian Student Visa Processing Time

Most applications are processed within 4–6 weeks, depending on:

• Your country of residence
• Course type
• Completeness of documents
• Health and character checks
• Apply early to avoid delays.
•  

Benefits of Studying in Australia

• Access to world-class universities
• Work while studying to offset costs
• Pathways to post-study work visas and PR
• Multicultural environment
•  

Also read our latest blog on Affordable Public Colleges in Canada for Students in 2025.

FAQs

1: What is the new minimum financial requirement?

As of 2025, you must show at least AUD $29,710/year for living expenses.

2: Can I work full-time during my studies?

No, work is limited to 48 hours per fortnight while classes are in session.

3: Is medical insurance mandatory?

Yes, you must have an Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

4: Has the GTE requirement changed?

Yes, it’s now called the Genuine Student (GS) requirement with stricter checks.

5: Can I stay in Australia after graduating?

Yes, graduates may be eligible for a Post-Study Work Visa (subclass 485).

Final Thoughts

Australia remains one of the best destinations for international education, but the 2025 updates mean higher standards, stricter financial proof, and more rigorous checks on student intentions. These changes are designed to protect the integrity of the visa system and ensure that only genuine students are approved.

Stay informed, prepare strong documentation, and consider professional advice to improve your success chances. With careful planning and the right guidance, you can confidently start your study journey and make the most of everything Australia has to offer.

 Contact Goodluck Education and Migration today for personalized advice and student support! 

 Book an appointment with Goodluck Education and Migration today for personalised advice and student support.