International Students: Returning To Australia?

International students have been allowed back into Australia since the country reopened its borders in 2023. However, the country has recently announced a cap on the number of new international student commencements, which will be set at 270,000 for the 2025 calendar year. This decision has been met with criticism from some universities and experts, who argue that the international education sector is already struggling after pandemic-related disruptions and border controls. The Australian government has stated that the cap is intended to manage the sector's growth and ensure the country remains a prestigious and high-quality destination for international students.

International students' return to Australia after COVID-19

International students are returning to Australia to continue their studies onshore after COVID-19 travel restrictions have eased. During the pandemic, international students were allowed to remain in their home countries and study online. However, as of 1 July 2023, international students holding a student visa are required to be in Australia, ready to commence face-to-face learning. This means that international students need to be back in the country to continue their studies and maintain their student visa status.

The University of Canberra, for instance, has outlined that international students must provide evidence and supporting documentation if they cannot return to Australia due to safety or practical reasons. The university also acknowledges the impact of the Australian government's requirement for travellers from certain regions, such as China, Hong Kong, and Macau, to present negative COVID-19 tests before departure.

While international students are returning to Australia, the country has also introduced a cap on international student commencements. The Australian government plans to limit new international student enrolments to 270,000 in 2025, which is intended to manage the sector's growth and ensure the sustainability and integrity of the international education industry. This decision has received mixed reactions, with some criticising it as a "sledgehammer" blow to the sector, while others support the move to address migration levels and housing infrastructure issues.

Despite the cap, the number of international students in Australia is recovering. Education Minister Jason Clare noted that the number of international students at universities is now 10% higher than pre-COVID-19 levels, and the government has emphasised that the focus is on sustainable growth rather than capping student visas. The government has also introduced tougher English language requirements and stricter scrutiny for second study visas, aiming to improve the quality and integrity of international education in Australia.

Student visa requirements

International students are allowed back in Australia. However, there are several requirements that students must meet to obtain a student visa.

Firstly, students must provide evidence of their proficiency in the English language. This can be done by taking a secure English language test, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), which is widely recognised for study, work, and migration. The minimum IELTS requirement for a student visa is 6.0, but higher scores may be necessary for entry into top universities or specific courses. For example, courses like Business, IT, and Engineering typically require a 6.5 IELTS score, while Nursing, Physiotherapy, and teaching require a 7.0 or higher.

Secondly, students must demonstrate their financial ability to cover tuition fees, living expenses, dependent expenses (if applicable), and return airfare. This may include providing evidence of funds, such as bank statements or financial sponsorship letters. Students under the age of 18 will also need to provide additional documents, such as parental consent.

It is recommended that students submit their visa applications at least 8 to 12 weeks before the start of their program. The visa fees start at AUD $1,600 per application, unless exempt, and the processing times may vary for each applicant. Students can refer to the Department of Home Affairs website for detailed information on visa requirements, processing times, and tips to expedite their application.

Once a student visa is obtained, it is essential to maintain its validity. This includes remaining enrolled in a full-time course at a recognised educational institution, maintaining satisfactory course progress and attendance, and providing an Australian address to the institution, updating them of any changes. Additionally, students must continue to demonstrate their financial capacity to support themselves while in Australia.

Travel from China, Hong Kong, and Macau

The Australian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution when travelling to China. It is recommended that travellers understand the risks, safety, laws, and necessary contacts before entering the country. Social media use can be risky in China, and travellers have been arrested for their online activity. It is advised that you do not comment on local or political events on social media and avoid protests, demonstrations, and large gatherings. Increased security measures are in place in Xinjiang, with violent incidents causing deaths and injuries.

For those travelling from China to Hong Kong, a visa or entry permit may be required. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) of the People's Republic of China has specific requirements for visas and entry permits. Travellers with a close connection to the region due to birth or long-term residence may not need a visa. However, those intending to work, study, or take up residence in the HKSAR typically require a visa or entry permit.

Travellers from China to Macau may need to present specific travel documents. A Hong Kong Re-entry Permit is required for entry from Mainland China and the Macao Special Administrative Region. Other accepted travel documents include the Hong Kong Document of Identity for Visa Purposes, a Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card, or a travel document endorsed by the Immigration Ordinance.

When travelling from Hong Kong to Australia, it is important to check the latest travel advice from the Australian Government. The Australian Embassy in Beijing and the Consulates-General in Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Chengdu can provide consular services for Australians in China.

English-language requirements

International students applying for a student visa to study in Australia are required to meet certain English language requirements. The Australian government's Department of Home Affairs accepts scores from a range of tests for English language visa requirements. The specific requirements may depend on factors such as the desired institution, level of study, and country of citizenship.

There are five commonly accepted English language tests for student visa applications in Australia:

• International English Language Testing System (IELTS): The minimum score requirement has increased from 5.5 to 6.0 for student visas and from 6.0 to 6.5 for temporary graduate visas.
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL): An internet-based test is accepted, with an overall score range of 60 to 90.
• Cambridge English Advanced (CAE): An overall score between 169 and 176 is required, with no section below 169.
• Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): An overall score between 50 and 64 is accepted.
• Occupational English Test (OET): The results of this test must be obtained within two years of the application.

It is important to note that these tests may have different score requirements depending on the specific institution and level of study. Additionally, certain courses, such as nursing, education, or law programs, tend to have stricter requirements, while Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses may have lower requirements.

Students who have completed at least five years of study in specific countries, such as Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, or the United States, may be exempt from providing additional evidence of English language proficiency. Similarly, citizens and passport holders of certain countries, including the UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, or the Republic of Ireland, are also exempt.

For students who do not meet the English language requirements, there is the option of completing an English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) to improve their English language skills before commencing their main course of study.

Post-study work rights

International students are allowed back in Australia, with international borders reopening and overseas students once again able to travel to the country for their studies. The Australian Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) has announced that the previous arrangements, which allowed international students to remain in their home countries and study online, no longer apply. All international student visa holders must return for on-campus study by 1 July 2023.

International students in Australia have the same workplace rights and protections as anyone else working in the country. This means that students can get a part-time or casual job to help pay their living expenses while studying. From 1 July 2023, student visa holders can work up to 48 hours every fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during holiday breaks. It is important to note that PhD and master's by research students are exempt from this rule. Additionally, if you were working in the aged care sector on 9 May 2023, you can continue to work unrestricted hours in that sector until 31 December 2023.

International students should be aware of their rights and entitlements when working in Australia. They can refer to resources such as the "Work Ready Fact Sheet" and warning signs flyer to learn about workplace exploitation and their rights. The Fair Work Ombudsman is also available to help international students with any workplace issues, without fear of their visa being cancelled.

For those international students who are interested in gaining work experience in Australia after completing their studies, the Australian Government provides post-study work rights. A Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) allows international students who have recently graduated from an Australian institution to live, work, and study in the country temporarily.

It is important for international students to check their visa rules and entitlements to ensure they are allowed to work in Australia. They can use resources such as the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) to confirm their work rights.

Frequently asked questions