Genuine Student (GS)
Requirement for Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Genuine Student (GS) Requirement for Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500)
From 23 March 2024, the Australian Government replaced the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement with the new Genuine Student (GS) requirement for all Student Visa (Subclass 500) applications.
This change is important for students from India, Kerala, UAE, and GCC countries planning to study in Australia.
The GS requirement ensures that student visa applicants are coming to Australia with the primary purpose of studying. It also recognises that students may later develop skills Australia needs and may apply for permanent residence (PR) after completing their studies.
What is the Genuine Student (GS) Requirement?
Under the GS requirement, you must show that you are:
- a genuine applicant for entry to Australia
- committed to staying in Australia as a student
- able to demonstrate a clear understanding of your course, education provider, and life in Australia
This requirement applies to all student visa applications lodged on or after 23 March 2024. Applications lodged before this date are still assessed against the GTE requirement.
GS Application Questions You Must Answer
When completing your visa application in ImmiAccount, you must answer the following GS questions (150 words each):
- Describe your current circumstances, including family, community, employment, and financial ties.
- Explain why you wish to study this course in Australia with your chosen education provider. Show your research and understanding of the course and life in Australia.
- Explain how completing the course will benefit your career and future opportunities.
- Add any other relevant information to support your application.
➡️ Additional questions apply if you are lodging a new student visa while already in Australia or if you previously held a student visa.
Evidence You Should Provide
Generic statements are not enough. You must support your answers with documents. Examples include:
Previous Study
- Academic transcripts & certificates
- Details of past education providers
- Reasons for study gaps or course/provider changes
Current Employment
- Employer details and company address
- Period of employment and position held
- Contact details of someone who can confirm employment
Family & Economic Ties in Home Country
- Evidence of family and community ties
- Reasons for not studying in home country if similar courses exist
- Documents showing employment or business activities
- Proof of income (bank statements, tax returns)
How GS is Assessed
The Department of Home Affairs will consider:
- Your personal circumstances in home country (family, economy, military service, civil unrest)
- Your knowledge and research about the course, provider, and living in Australia
- The value of the course to your future (career opportunities, expected salary, PR prospects)
- Your immigration history (previous visas, refusals, compliance with conditions)
For applicants under 18, the intentions of parents/guardians will also be considered.
Financial Capacity & Funds Requirement
You must show that you have enough funds to cover your stay in Australia. The minimum funds (as of 2024/25) are:
- Living costs – AUD 29,710 per year for the student
- Partner – AUD 10,394 per year
- Child – AUD 4,449 per year
- Schooling costs – AUD 13,502 per child (if applicable)
- Travel costs – AUD 2,000 to AUD 3,000 (depending on location)
For detailed calculation, use our Australia Student Visa Funds Calculator.
Why GS Matters for Students from India & GCC
For students from Kerala, India, and GCC countries, the GS requirement is a key part of the visa process. Strong documentation of your background, reasons for study in Australia, and financial stability will improve your chances of visa approval.
At Guide to Heights, we provide:
- GS/GTE SOP & documentation support
- Student visa checklist (Subclass 500)
- Financial planning with approved banks in India for education loans
- Scholarship guidance & course selection
Get Expert Help
If you’re applying for an Australia Student Visa from India, UAE, or GCC, our certified counselors can help you prepare a strong GS statement, collect the right evidence, and increase your chance of success.