What Is the New Rule for Student Visas in Australia? What You Need to Know in 2025

International students have long viewed Australia as a top study destination. Renowned for its high-quality education, diverse campuses, and post‑study opportunities, a student visa (Subclass 500) opens doors to a bright future. But new rules introduced in 2025 aim to preserve the integrity of the system while ensuring genuine students benefit.

Here’s an in-depth look at the key changes, their implications, and how you can prepare.

1. Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) Is Now Mandatory

Starting January 1, 2025, all student visa applicants—both onshore and offshore—must include a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) at the time of application.

What This Means:

• No more Letters of Offer. Applications without a CoE will be automatically invalid

• For onshore applicants, if you don’t hold a CoE before your current visa expires, your application is void and you won't receive a bridging visa 

2. Work Rights Now Strictly 48 Hours per Fortnight

While student visa holders have historically been able to work part-time during study, from 2025 the limit is now 48 hours per fortnight during term time. (That’s about 24 hours per week.)

• You can still work unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.

• Employers need proof of your term dates—your CoE, for example—to ensure compliance 

3. Higher English Language Requirements

To maintain academic quality, IELTS and equivalent test score minimums have increased:

• Student Visa (Subclass 500): now requires IELTS 6.0 overall (up from 5.5) 

This ensures students are better prepared to succeed academically.

4. Financial Capacity—Minimum Raised to AUD 29,710 per Year

New rules require applicants to prove they have sufficient funds to cover:

• Living expenses (~AUD 29,710 per year)

• Tuition fees

• Return airfare

• Additional amounts for any dependents 

This increase reflects the goal of reducing financial stress on students and supporting their well-being.

5. Mandatory Offshore Applications for Student Visas

From mid-2025, applicants on visitor, graduate, or other temporary visas must apply from outside Australia 

• The practice of “visa hopping”—switching to student status from other visas—has been closed.

• Makes the process more transparent and ensures genuine intent.

6. Priority Processing Linked to Providers’ Caps

Student visa processing now follows priority tiers based on how close a provider is to its government‑set cap Priority 1 (fast‑track): providers under 80% of their intake cap

• Priority 2: slower processing once near quota

This “de‑facto cap” is meant to balance student numbers across Australia

7. Increased Student Visa Fees

Application fees have risen significantly:

• From AUD 710 to AUD 1,600 for a Subclass 500 visa 

• Additional administrative charges for dependents also apply

This aims to align with the actual cost of processing and managing international students.

8. Genuine Student Requirement Replaces GTE

The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) test has been updated to a stricter “Genuine Student” requirement 

• Your reasons for studying must be clear and aligned with your background

• You must demonstrate intent to return home after studies (unless eligible for post‑study options)

9. Tighter Post‑Study Work Pathways (Subclass 485)

While not directly student‑visa rules, changes impact post‑study plans:

• Maximum period reduced for bachelor/master graduates

• Age limit for Subclass 485 reduced from 50 to 35 years old 

What These Changes Mean for You

✔ Apply Only with a CoE

Don’t risk delays—get your CoE before lodging an application.

✔ Budget Carefully

Include higher fees, living costs, and dependents in your financial plan.

✔ Educate, Not Work

Your focus must align with your course—not visa extension via work.

✔ Apply Offshore if Needed

If on a temporary visa, consider returning home to apply for your student visa.

✔ Be Genuine—Always

Ensure your application narrative is consistent, credible, and well-supported.

✔ Plan Post‑Study Carefully

Consider age‑limits and pathways before choosing degrees that rely on post-study work.

FAQs

Q: Can I apply onshore with a Visitor or Graduate Visa?

A: Only until mid-2025; afterward, you may need to apply from outside Australia 

Q: What if I apply without a CoE?

A: Your application will be declared invalid, and you won't get a bridging visa .

Q: Can I work 48 hours per fortnight during breaks?

A: No—48 is your maximum during term. But work can be unlimited in holidays .

Q: Will the new financial requirement stop me from applying?

A: You must provide proof of AUD 29,710+ yearly funds to qualify .

Q: Has the age limit changed for post-study visas?

A: Yes, Subclass 485 now caps at 35 years old, down from 50 .

Why Secure Help from a Migration Agent?

These changes are complex and evolving. A MARA-registered migration agent can help you by:

• Ensuring you apply at the right time, with the right documentation

• Preparing strong genuine-student statements

• Advising on post-study pathways

• Avoiding costly mistakes

Final Thoughts

Australia’s 2025 student visa reforms aim to protect genuine students and strengthen the education sector. While fees and requirements have increased, these updates also prioritise quality, fairness, and transparency.

If you're serious about studying in Australia, be meticulous: secure your CoE, plan your finances, and present a clear, genuine case for study. And most importantly, seek professional advice to navigate the new rules with confidence.