As the government moves to tighten migration pathways and ensure the integrity of the education system, two major hurdles have emerged for prospective international students: the record-breaking $2,000 student visa application fee and the implementation of the Genuine Student (GS) test.

The Australian student visa (Subclass 500) application fee has seen an unprecedented climb. In 2023, the fee sat at a relatively modest $710. By 2024, it jumped 125% to $1,600, before reaching the current $2,000 mark in July 2025.

This non-refundable charge makes Australia the most expensive destination in the world for international students to lodge a visa application. For those considering studying English on a student visa or enrolling in trade courses, the financial risk is now significant, especially when coupled with higher refusal rates.

Impact on the Education Sector

The latest full-year data for 2025 reveals that the impact of these application charges has not been felt equally across all education sectors:

• ELICOS (English Language Programs): This sector has been hit hardest, with visa applications plummeting by 39%. The combination of a $2,000 fee for relatively short courses and a 25% refusal rate has made Australia less attractive for language learners.
• VET (Vocational Education and Training): Applications for popular diploma courses fell by 35%.
• Higher Education: Interestingly, the university sector remains resilient. Despite the fee hikes, demand for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees actually remains higher than 2019 levels, showing that students seeking high-value degrees are still prioritising Australia.

The Genuine Student (GS) Test

Alongside the financial barriers, the Department of Home Affairs has formally commenced the Genuine Student test, replacing the old Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement.The test is designed to ensure that applicants are coming to Australia primarily for a high-quality education rather than using the student visa as a de facto work permit.

The GS test requires a more rigorous demonstration of:

1. The student’s circumstances (including their home country situation).
2. The value of the course to their future career.
3. Their understanding of the visa requirements and responsibilities.

Student Visa Trends and Fee History

Source: Department of Home Affairs.

Professional Migration Advice is Essential

With a $2,000 non-refundable fee on the line and a 1-in-4 refusal rate in some sectors, the margin for error has vanished. A simple mistake in your GS test statement or a failure to provide the correct documentation can result in a costly rejection.

Our migration agents on the Gold Coast specialise in helping students navigate these matters, whether you are looking at skilled migration pathways following your studies or simply want to ensure your initial Student Visa is granted, professional guidance is your best insurance policy.

Contact our migration lawyers and agents today via our contact form or calling our Queensland office on (07) 5592 0755.