Key takeaways
- The GS requirement applies to Student visa applications lodged on or after 23 March 2024, replacing the GTE
- You must show that studying in Australia is the main reason for your visa
- Future plans to apply for PR do not count against you
- Answer the GS questions in the application form, up to 150 words each, in English
- Statements backed by evidence carry more weight
1. What is the Genuine Student (GS) requirement?
The Genuine Student requirement applies to all Student visa applications lodged on or after 23 March 2024. It replaced the old Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement.
To be granted a Student visa (subclass 500), every applicant must show that they are a genuine applicant for entry and stay as a student, and that they understand that studying in Australia is the main reason for their visa. Family members must meet the related GS dependent criterion.
2. Good news: future PR plans do not count against you
The GS requirement recognises that genuine students may develop skills Australia needs, and may later choose to apply for permanent residence. Home Affairs states that future intentions of this kind do not count against an applicant. What matters is that studying is your primary reason for coming now.
3. The GS questions in the application form
Instead of a separate statement, the online Student visa application asks you to answer GS questions directly. Home Affairs prefers answers in the form rather than an attached GS statement. You will be asked to:
- Describe your current circumstances, including ties to family, community and employment, and your economic situation
- Explain why you want to study this particular course in Australia with this education provider, and your understanding of the course and of studying and living in Australia
- Explain how completing the course will benefit you
- Add any other relevant information
An additional question applies if you have previously held a Student visa, or if you are applying in Australia while holding a different visa.
4. 150 words per answer: make every word count
- Each answer is limited to 150 words
- All answers must be in English
- Answers should be specific to you, your course and your provider, not generic
- Every claim should be backed by documents you attach in ImmiAccount
5. The evidence that strengthens your application
Home Affairs gives more weight to statements supported by evidence and looks at your overall circumstances. Useful evidence includes:
| Area | What to provide |
|---|---|
| Previous study | Academic transcripts, certificates, provider names and length of study |
| Study in Australia | Your full study history, reasons for any change of course or provider, course progress, and any study gaps of more than 2 months in an academic year |
| Current employment | Employer details and address, period of employment, your position, and a contact who can confirm it |
| Ties to your home country | Family, community and employment ties, and why you are not studying a similar course available at home |
| Economic circumstances | Evidence of employment or business activity for the 12 months before you apply, any job offers after your course, and tax returns or bank statements |
Source: Department of Home Affairs, Genuine Student requirement.
6. Common mistakes to avoid
- Copying template answers that do not reflect your real situation
- Choosing a course with no clear link to your study history or career plans, without explaining why
- Leaving study gaps or course changes unexplained
- Making claims without supporting documents
- Missing the connection between your chosen provider, the course content and your goals
7. GS and the October 2026 student visa changes
From 2 October 2026, most Student visa applications must be lodged from outside Australia, and new limits apply to family members. Read our guide to the 2026 student visa changes before you plan your application.
8. How Outlook Immigration can help
Our MARA registered migration agent and QEAC certified education counsellor help you choose the right course and provider, prepare clear and genuine GS answers within the word limits, and organise the evidence that supports them, so your application is complete and decision-ready.
Want a strong, genuine GS response?
Book a consultation with our registered migration agent and QEAC certified counsellor.
Book a ConsultationBased on the Department of Home Affairs Genuine Student requirement page (October 2026). This article is general information only and is not migration advice for your circumstances.
