Australia Student Visa Rejection

Explore student visa requirements, types, fees, application process and eligibility for studying abroad

Australia Student Visa Rejection

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Australian Department of Home Affairs stated in their recent updates that the number of student visa acceptances is increasing. Still, for Indian students, there has been a 29% increase in the Australia student visa rejection rate. In 2022, the number was 32%, and in 2023, it went up to 50%. For 2024, the Department of Home Affairs India predicted rejection rates to be 13.3-14.9%. Hence, causing concern among the Indian students. To reduce this stress and financial strain, we’ve brought you this blog which includes valuable insights on Australian student visas and will help you understand the reason behind the increasing Australian visa rejection rates. Keep reading and avoid your chances of visa rejection.

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10 Reasons Which Lead to the Visa Rejection

Insufficient Financial Requirements:

Studying abroad requires a huge amount of funds including tuition fees and living expenses. When applying for a student visa, it's essential to collect all the documents related to your finances. The documents that you need while applying are:

 

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    A bank statement from the last four months.
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    Evidence of the source of funds.
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    Proof of the sponsor’s income (from a family member or friend).
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    An acknowledgment receipt from the university.
 

Many students believe they can apply for a visa before arranging the finances. Hence, leading to a higher Australian student visa rejection rate. Even the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) reported it as the most common reason for visa denials. Therefore, prepare these two major documents before applying for the student visa:

 

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    Arrange approximately ₹1,100,805 ($AUD20,000) for annual living expenses, in addition to covering one year’s tuition fees.
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    Clearly outline the source of your funds and elaborate on your plan to return the investment after completing your course.
 

Many students desire to stay abroad permanently, which can contribute to visa rejections. Therefore, while answering questions in your visa application, emphasize the opportunities available in your home country and convey your intention to return to India upon completing your studies.

 

 

Unsatisfactory Study Plan:

When most students apply for study abroad courses, they solely show interest in the course chosen rather than the university as they rely too much on the consultant. However, during the interview, an interviewer asks about the university, and they expect a detailed description of the course, university, and the benefits of pursuing it in Australia rather than in India.

 

If you are still deciding between universities, utilize our university comparison tool to help make an informed choice.

Passport:

While applying for an Australian visa one should adhere to the following key points:

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    Passport issued within the last 10 years from the date of visa application.
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    It should be valid for a longer duration than the student visa. 

Previous Rejection History:

During the visa interview, providing false or misleading information can lead to visa rejection. For instance, if you have previously been denied a UK visa and fail to disclose this information when asked, it may result in visa denial. It is crucial to be honest and provide accurate information throughout the application process.

Incomplete Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement:

The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) is the most crucial document of visa application which includes your study plan, future plans, and details about your family. This document is used by the interviewer in assessing whether you want to get settled in Australia or will return (whatever the case is, let them feel that you’re coming back). Here are a few key points to recheck your GTE content. Ensure to follow to avoid a rejection.

 

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    Should not be generated by AI or contain any grammatical errors.
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    Provide accurate and comprehensive details, including exact dates and specific events. 
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    Clearly explain why you have selected this particular course and institution abroad.
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    Describe how you plan to support yourself financially while studying in a foreign country.
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    Discuss the significance of the degree for your career and the expected earnings upon completion (in India).
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     Include information about any prior student visa applications for Australia or other countries, including any rejections or cancellations.

Low English Test Scores:

International students applying to study in Australia must take an English proficiency test. This test is conducted to check if a person can communicate effectively overseas. Each university sets its minimum score, you can go through our blog; IELTS Score For Australia: Band Requirements for Universities, Student & Work Visa for more information. The English Test Certificate should be issued within the past two years from the application date.

Unsatisfactory Medical Examination Results:

Australia upholds high health standards and requires a medical examination as part of the visa application process. The examination includes checks for HIV, Hepatitis, and other health conditions. For detailed requirements, refer to the official Australian Immigration website.

Absence of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC):

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is a health cover for students studying in Australia. This ensures that a person can take coverage of any health-related concern at cheaper rates in Australia. You can either consider an OSHC advised by the university or find one through the immigration website. Make sure that you get the OSHC from the companies approved by the immigration office with validity for the period you are staying in Australia. 

Failure to Meet DIBP Character Criteria:

The Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) conducts a character assessment as part of the student visa application process. If you have any registered complaints against you or have been found guilty of criminal activities, including sexual assault, your application may be rejected.

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Tips to Get an Australian Student Visa 

To avoid additional costs and ensure a smooth visa application process, follow these key steps:

Checklist:

Maintain a checklist of all the documents required at the time of visa application. Verify twice before submitting the documents and ensure that you have read all the guidelines provided by the Australian immigration website regarding the student visa you are applying for. 

Clear Understanding:

Make sure that you have a clear understanding of your university, funds, and future plans. Give a feeling to the interviewer that you have done detailed research before applying for the course. Any doubts or inconsistencies in the information provided and said could lead to a high chance of Australia student visa rejection rate.

Timely Payment:

Ensure all payments are made on time and you’ve received an acknowledgment receipt. For Subclass 500 visas, the visa application cost is ₹38,573. In addition to this fee, you will need to cover costs for health checks, the character certificate, tuition fees, and any additional charges. Arrange these funds in advance to avoid delays in your application process.

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What to do after Australian Student Visa gets Rejected

If your visa application is rejected, then you have an option of appeal within 28 days however, there is no guarantee of success. Opt for the appeal only when you believe that your application is handled wrongly. Keep in mind that these measures may involve additional fees, so include these costs in your financial budget.

Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT):

If your visa is rejected, you can appeal the decision with the AAT within 28 days. You can submit your appeal either online through the website or offline using a written application. Your visa application will be reviewed, and you’ll receive an email with an answer. It will help you point out the mistakes you made earlier that made you fall into the Australia student visa rejection rate.

Federal Court & Ministry:

If the AAT denies your appeal and you believe the decision was incorrect, you can take your application to the Federal court and get your application reviewed. Otherwise, you can take it to the ministry for a favorable decision. However, the involvement of the ministry happens in some rare cases.

Alt Text: Steps one can consider if their Australian Student Visa gets rejected.

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Conclusion

A rejection can significantly impact your chances of studying abroad. After reading this tutorial you might have gotten your answer to the question, “Does Australian student visa get rejected?” Marking the finances as the major concern among the visa rejection reasons. To minimize the risk take help from the experts and seek assistance from a reputable trustworthy immigration consultancy. Proper preparations for exams and interviews and careful attention to detail are crucial. Remember, everyone makes mistakes, so stay calm during the interview and answer with a pause to make communication effective with the visa authorities. Good luck with your application!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the age limit to apply for an Australian student visa?
 

There is no age limit for an Australian student visa, but, it depends based on the course. Students under 18 need to provide a consent letter from a parent or guardian.

Can I work while studying in Australia on a student visa?
 

Yes, students on a Subclass 500 visa can work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the academic term and full-time during scheduled breaks. This provides an opportunity to gain work experience and support living expenses.

What is the main reason for Australia student visa rejection?
 

In most cases, immigration officers are not pleased with the financial support or doubt your return to India. 

Can I bring my family with me on an Australian student visa?
 

Yes, holders of a Subclass 500 visa can bring their spouse and children under 18 to Australia. Note that family members may face certain work restrictions, and their visa application might take longer to process.

What is the Australian study visa success rate for India?
 

The success rate for Australian student visas for Indian applicants is currently around 85-87%. However, individual success can vary based on the specifics of the application.

Which intake is best for Australia?
 

February intake is the most popular and important intake of the year. It opens admission to everyone around the globe. 

Does Australia accept gap years?
 

Australia generally accepts a gap year, provided you can offer a satisfactory explanation. However, a gap year might impact your admission into top universities.