How to Prepare for the Genuine Student Test?: Learn Effective Tips, Possible Challenges

Australia is one of the popular destinations to study abroad for Indian students. This is because of the high-quality education, globally recognised universities and world-class facilities. But, international students must first pass the Genuine Student Test to have an opportunity to study in this country. This test is required to secure an Australian student visa to study in the country. It is replacing the Genuine Temporary Entrant test that was taken out of use last year.

This blog discusses what the Genuine Student Test for Australia visa applicants entails. Study abroad aspirants can also use the tips mentioned in this blog to prepare themselves for the test better.

What is the Genuine Student Test (GST)?

The Genuine Student Test (GST) is a test used by Australian immigration authorities to assess the eligibility of applicants for a student visa.

A visa officer will conduct the GST. The applicant will be judged based on their responses regarding their academic plans, career plans, and financial sources. Also, the visa officer will take note of the student’s English skills and academic knowledge.

In the test, students must show their intent by proving their desire to study in the country. They must also show valid university admission proof and financial sources to be eligible to pass the GST. The implementation of the Genuine Student Test makes it a mandatory requirement for international students willing to study in Australia. 

Why was the Genuine Student Test Implemented?

Before the introduction of the GST, another test called the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) was enforced. Both of these tests aim to test the applicant’s worthiness of an Australian student visa.

Here are a few reasons leading to the implementation of the test.

• Reduce Fraudulent Applicants
  Increased instances of fake enrollments lead to empty seats and individuals with ulterior motives. The Australian government has introduced the Genuine Student Test to crack down on this. This test helps to take a deeper assessment of students and their ambitions in the country.
• Maintain High-Quality Education
  Australia is one of the best countries for Indian students and international students. To maintain this, the country looks to improve its status as a top study destination by improving screening processes. This will help ensure that all students provided with an Australian visa will benefit from the education system and have a brighter career.
• Improve Country Reputation
  Australian authorities can ensure trust in their immigration system through the Genuine Student Test for Australia student visa allotment. It shows there is a distinct criteria for obtaining the opportunity to study in the country.
• Ensures a Rich Education System
  When adequate testing of applicants takes place, it ensures universities will be full of students ready to absorb knowledge. These students will also be able to contribute to the Australian education system.

Must read: Indian vs Australian Education Systems

How to Prepare for the Genuine Student Test?

International students, especially Indian students, wonder how to increase their chances of perfecting GST preparations. There are a few ways that students can prepare best for the Genuine Student Test.

Here are a few tips to make sure you are ready to give it your best.

1. Practice English Speaking

English speech can be improved by watching English programs and practising speaking with others. Practising is the best way to perfect your English skills. Apart from improving pronunciation and sentence formation, it helps improve confidence levels. Speaking confidently will give the visa officer a positive impression of your skills.

2. Take IELTS or Other English Exams

English proficiency tests like IELTS and TOEFL are highly recommended for students looking to study in Australia. There are several aids and resources available for these exams. They could help prepare for taking the GST.

These exams can act as great preparatory tests. They will help to give students an idea of what they should expect in the Genuine Student Test for Australia student visa interview.

3. Ask for Your Educational Certificates to be Assessed by the Australian Institutes

Education document assessment will help determine if the Australian education system recognises them. Doing this in advance will help to avoid problems during the GST interview. Studying in an Australian university may come with certain academic requirements. Students must ensure their academic documents are acceptable by Australian system standards.

4. Get Your Documents in Order

Students have enough time in advance to prepare for the Genuine Student Test, they should be well prepared. This refers to having the right documents at the time of the interview.

Some of the documents necessary are:

• Educational documents 
• Financial documents 
• Enrollment/admission letter 
• Health and other insurance

The above documents will be necessary, as well as any application forms for the GST itself. Note that an Australian student visa medical test may also be necessary.

5. Prepare for Interview Questions

Students can research a bit about their desired course in preparation for answering questions. This will also help gain knowledge and improve confidence during the Genuine Student Test interview.

A bit of research can help understand what type of questions the visa officer will ask. Knowing what to expect can help students cope better during the actual interview.

6. Know Everything About Your Finances

The GST focuses largely on finances as well. Students need to be aware of every detail regarding their finances. This way, they could respond accurately if a question about it arises. Not knowing enough details is one of the common mistakes to avoid while studying abroad. Students should avoid it at all costs.

Difference between Genuine Student Test (GST) and Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE)

Before implementing GST, the Genuine Temporary Entrant test was used to screen Australian student visa applicants. This has now been removed for a variety of reasons. Here is a look at what each of these tests focuses on.

The comparison shows that the Genuine Student Test is a stricter way of checking student applications. This makes preparing for the test even more important for international students.

Passed your GST? Take a look at the Best Bachelor’s Degree in Australia in 2024.

Possible Challenges of the Genuine Student Test to Students

The introduction of this new test could prove to be problematic for several students. These are a few challenges students could be met with due to this new test.

• Language Barrier
  One of the core requirements of the Genuine Student Test for Australia is English communication skills. Although many Indian students know English, their speaking skills may be below par. As a result, many International students from India and other non-English speaking countries could face difficulty.
• Students Must Adhere to Strict Requirments
  To be eligible for an Australian student visa, international students must pass the GST. For this to happen, students must have all the requirements and fulfill the criteria.
• Increased Competition
  With the Genuine Student Test becoming mandatory, students will ramp up their skills to suit the requirements. This will lead to increased competition between students applying for the visa. This could be an obstacle for students who want to study abroad.
• Clear Representation of Funds Source
  Students looking to further their education in Australia must be able to show where their funds are coming from. This includes the money to cover their tuition fees and living costs.

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Conclusion

Studying abroad in a country like Australia would be an accomplishment for most students. The only thing standing in the way of it happening is the Genuine Student Test.
This test replaces the former Genuine Temporary Entrant test.

The GST is stricter, and students must show and prove their intent to have a quality Australian education. Also, the Genuine Student Test for Australia visa applicants checks English proficiency, financial sources, and university enrollment.

FAQs

Q.1 What is the GST or Genuine Student Test?
A.1 The GST is a new test being laid out by the Australian government. It aims to make a deeper and more accurate assessment of students. This aims to strengthen Australia’s reputation as a top study destination. This helps them stay a viable option for students around the world.

Q.2 Is the GST harder than the Genuine Temporary Entrant test?
A.2 The Genuine Student Test is not that much harder if students prepare for the test. Also, starting ahead of time will help collect all the necessary documents.

Q.3 Will Australia’s Genuine Student Test implementation affect the education system?
A.3 Yes, it will affect the education system. It will work to improve the education system by ensuring that all students receive the best education experience. I will also raise the bar of quality of education in the country.

Q.4 Why is the Genuine Student Test for an Australian student visa necessary?
A.4 The GST is a new and improved way to assess students, reduce fraudulent activities, and ensure deserving and genuine students receive a quality education.

Q.5 Is the GST mandatory?
A.5 Yes, the Genuine Student Test is necessary for all students hoping to get an Australian student visa.