Australia Tightens Student Visa Rules: Slower Processing for Over-Enrolling Universities

by Nakul_Mehra

Image Source: Business Today948×533 34.9 KB

Australia has announced new student visa rules under Ministerial Direction 115 (MD115), effective November 15, 2025, that could impact international students, including many from India.

Under the new system, if a university or college enrolls more than 115% of its annual student intake target, visa applications linked to that provider will be assigned a lower processing priority, resulting in slower approvals.

Here’s how the new priority system works:

Priority 1: Providers below 80% of their target

Priority 2: Providers between 80–115%

Priority 3: Providers above 115% (slowest processing)

The change aims to ensure a balanced intake across institutions, especially between regional and metro areas. However, it doesn’t impose a strict cap; it only affects the speed of visa processing.

Some categories, such as TAFE, postgraduate research, ELICOS, and government scholarship holders, will continue to receive Priority 1 treatment.

Thinking of studying in Australia? Join GD Connect to get verified guidance from alumni and experts on navigating these new visa rules and choosing the right university for you.

Source: Business Today