Australian Immigration Daily News

The Migration (English Language Tests and Evidence Exemptions for Subclass 500 (Student) Visa) Instrument (LIN 24/022) 2024, issued under the authority of the Minister for Home Affairs, repeals the previous instrument from 2018 and sets new English language proficiency requirements for Subclass 500 (Student) visa applicants. Commencing on 23 March 2024, this legislative instrument aims to enhance the integrity of the student visa program as part of the Government's Migration Strategy.

The updated regulations increase the required English language test scores for applicants, reflecting the Government's emphasis on the importance of strong English language skills for students' academic success and integration into Australian life. The instrument specifies that applicants must have taken an approved English language test within two years before making their application and achieved the required test scores as detailed in Schedule 1 of the instrument. Higher proficiency requirements are introduced to help students thrive in their studies and engage more effectively in work and community activities in Australia.

The instrument also maintains specific lower test score requirements for applicants enrolled in English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) of at least 10 or 20 weeks, foundation programs, or eligible pathway programs, acknowledging the tailored support these courses provide to students in meeting academic entry requirements for Australian education institutions.

Classes of applicants exempt from these English language test requirements include citizens of certain English-speaking countries, students enrolled in non-English courses or specific educational programs, and students who have completed substantial studies in English within Australia or other specified English-speaking countries.

Consultations for these reforms included cross-Government discussions and input from stakeholders through the Education Visa Consultative Committee, the Council for International Education, and individual meetings with international education sector providers. The Office of Impact Analysis reviewed the impact of these changes, finding no further analysis was required.

The instrument signifies Australia's commitment to ensuring international students possess the necessary language skills for academic and social success, aligning with the standards of competitor countries and supporting Australia's social cohesion and the welfare of international students.

Source: LIN24022.pdf and LIN24022-Explanatory-Statement.pdf