Australia Student Visa Updates 2026 (New Rules & Fees)

Australia, a leading study abroad destination, continues to be among the top choices for students in the 2026-2027 intake. If you are planning to head there, you need to know about the recent Australian student visa updates introducing key changes for international students. These policies, implemented in 2024 and 2025, are now fully established requirements for the upcoming application cycle.

Beginning in January 2025, you must use your official Confirmation of Enrolment to apply for the Subclass 500 visa.

Alongside the mandatory CoE, there have been critical updates to the English language proficiency, proof of funding, and processing requirements since 2024. You must meet the reworked Genuine Student (GS) requirement to qualify for the visa. Keep reading to stay on top of the changes and updates that may impact your application this year.

What’s New for Students Going to Australia in 2026-2027

Australia is maintaining significant updates to its student visa process to enhance fairness and efficiency for international students. These changes aim to ensure genuine students have a clear pathway to study in Australia.

The 2026 visa rules are strict, particularly regarding the Genuine Student (GS) test and the updated financial requirements ($29,710 AUD). Get all the latest, verified information in one essential document- Australia Student Visa Checklist.

Mandatory Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

Starting on January 1, 2025, all student visa applicants must provide a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) at the time of application.

• CoE Requirement: Previously, applicants could submit a Letter of Offer. Now, the education provider issues the CoE once the student meets all course requirements and pays the necessary fees, serving as definitive proof of enrollment. This change ensures that only students with genuine commitment and eligibility for the course are applying.

Genuine Student (GS) Requirement

The Australian government continues to emphasise the Genuine Student (GS) requirement, which, as of March 2024, replaced the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement.

• GS Assessment: The GS requirement assesses whether an applicant genuinely intends to study in Australia. You must demonstrate a clear alignment between your previous academic and career path, your chosen course, and your future career goals.

• Post-Study Pathway: The GS requirement acknowledges that post-study pathways to permanent residence are available, but your primary intention must be to study.

Enhanced Financial Proof Requirements

The financial proof requirements were significantly increased in May 2024 and are the current standard for the 2026-2027 intake. You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees, travel, and living expenses for the first 12 months.

You must additionally be able to prove that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees for the first year. You can show these funds through savings, loans, or scholarships, and must include in-depth, official evidence during the visa application process.

Updated English Language Proficiency Requirements

The minimum required English language proficiency standards, raised in 2024, are still in effect to ensure academic excellence:

• Student Visa (Subclass 500): The minimum band score remains 6.0 (or equivalent).

• Packaged ELICOS: The minimum score to package an English course with a degree has risen to 5.0.

• Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485): Note that the English requirement for this post-study visa has been raised to IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent).

Priority Processing Tiers (Ministerial Direction 115)

The Department of Home Affairs introduced new processing rules, under Ministerial Direction 115 (MD115), which took effect in November 2025. This replaced the previous tier system.

• Assessment Focus: Visa processing is now prioritised based on the risk level and student allocation usage of the education provider.

• Impact: Applications for high-compliance providers that are below their student cap numbers typically receive faster processing.

Visa Applications from Offshore

A significant update is the restriction on onshore visa applications, a rule fully in effect for 2026-2027.

• The Change: From July 2025, if you are in Australia on a visitor visa (Subclass 600) or a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), you are generally required to apply for a student visa from your home country (offshore). This ensures a more transparent process and maintains the integrity of the student visa program.

Don't risk visa rejection! Have your GS statement reviewed or get instant clarification on the new financial proof requirements for your country. Chat directly with a Gradstar Global expert now.

Work Rights during Study

While students are permitted to work, the rules emphasise that study must remain the primary purpose of the visa:

• During Semesters: You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight (two weeks).

• During Semester Breaks: You have unlimited work rights.

• Masters by Research & PhD Students: You have unlimited work rights even during the semester.

Graduate Pathways Focus

The government is actively encouraging Temporary Graduate Visa holders to explore skilled job opportunities or work toward permanent residency. This discourages over-reliance on student visas to extend temporary stays and helps graduates build meaningful careers in Australia.

Why You Need a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

A CoE is an official document from your Australian education provider that verifies you have secured a place in a course and are ready to begin your studies. Starting January 2025, the CoE is mandatory for all applications. Without a CoE, your visa application cannot begin processing, and you will not receive a bridging visa to remain in Australia while your application is under review.

How to Get a CoE

1. Meet education provider requirements: Fulfil the academic and English proficiency requirements for your course.

2. Pay your tuition fee: Complete the payment for your initial tuition fee deposit.

3. Receive your CoE: Once accepted and paid, the education provider issues the CoE.

4. Include the CoE in your visa application: Attach the CoE to your visa application to ensure it is valid.

What Happens if You Don’t Meet the New Requirements?

If you do not meet the strict requirements for studying in Australia in 2027, it could seriously affect your visa application.

• No Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): If you don’t get a CoE from your educational provider, you won’t be able to apply for your visa.

• No Onshore Visa Application: If you are on a visitor or graduate visa, you must now apply from your home country. Failure to follow this rule will lead to application rejection.

• Visa Application Delays/Rejections: Missing the updated CoE, failing to meet the minimum AUD 29,710 financial requirement, or submitting a weak GS statement is likely to lead to delays or outright refusal.

Steps to Apply for the Subclass 500 Visa in 2026-2027

Applying for an Australian student visa in 2027 requires careful planning and ensuring all updated requirements are met.

1. Choose Your Course: Select a CRICOS-registered course that aligns with your GS requirements.

2. Secure Your CoE: Accept your offer and pay the initial tuition fee to receive your mandatory CoE.

3. Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents, including:

• Valid Passport

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

• Financial Evidence (meeting the AUD 29,710 living cost minimum + tuition)

• English Language Test Scores (IELTS 6.0 minimum)

• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

• Academic Transcripts

• Strong Genuine Student (GS) Statement

4. Submit Your Australia Visa Application: Submit your application online via ImmiAccount. Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays under the MD115 processing model.

5. Wait for Approval: Monitor your status. Once approved, you will receive your visa grant notice.

Rounding Up

The Australia student visa updates for 2025 are here to create a smoother process for genuine international students. By securing your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and submitting a complete Australia visa application, you’re one step closer to achieving your dream of studying in Australia. Chat with an Expert on WhatsApp, get your visa questions answered! Plan ahead, meet the new requirements, and start your exciting journey at one of the world’s top study destinations.