Students applying to Australian universities, including the University of Wollongong, are advised to withdraw applications before visa approval due to concerns about new criteria in the government’s migration strategy. The universities assure a full fee refund upon withdrawal.
Stakeholders in India warn of unimplemented changes announced in December, including a Genuine Student Test and enhanced scrutiny for high-risk providers. The strategy includes two directions: one outlining key considerations for decision-makers and another prioritizing student visa applications based on provider risk, expected to be effective by the end of 2023.
The Indian agency association AAERI expresses concern over undisclosed details, longer visa processing times, and a higher rejection rate. Over 90,000 student visa holders are projected to drop this financial year.
Concerns arise about visa rejections as immigration officials reportedly review applications with the new Genuine Student Test, despite the legislation not being in place. There are fears of assessment against both the new GST and the existing Genuine Temporary Entrant.
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