On 23 May 2025, the Department of Home Affairs officially registered LIN 25/027, introducing key changes to the Migration (English Language Tests and Evidence Exemptions for Subclass 500 (Student) Visa) Instrument. This update modifies the existing instrument LIN 24/022, under Schedule 2 to the Migration Regulations 1994, with implications for international students seeking to study in Australia.

This amendment specifically affects how English language test score requirements are applied to student visa applicants enrolled in eligible pathway programs.

What Has Changed?

1. Expansion of Eligible Pathway Programs

The number of registered courses recognised as approved pathway programs has increased from 155 to 166, offering more international students access to lower English language test score requirements. These changes come after extensive consultation with education stakeholders.

2. Updated Terminology for Greater Clarity

The title of Column 4 in the pathway program list has been changed from "Provider" to "Destination University", clarifying the link between the pathway program and the final enrolment institution.

3. Institutional Merger Reflected

The instrument reflects the merger between the University of South Australia and the University of Adelaide, which are now represented under the new Adelaide University. A total of 21 course entries have been updated to reflect this structural change.

4. Commencement Date

These changes apply to all Subclass 500 Student visa applications lodged on or after the instrument’s commencement date, ensuring clarity and consistency moving forward.

Purpose of the Amendment

The core aim of this amendment is to provide greater transparency and consistency in how English language test score exemptions are applied to international students enrolled in approved academic pathway programs.

Pathway programs are structured pre-university courses recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) that typically allow students to progress to the second year of an undergraduate program at an Australian university.

By enrolling in an approved pathway program, eligible students may provide lower English test scores than otherwise required, in accordance with Schedule 1 to LIN 24/022.

Sector-Wide Consultation and Collaboration

This legislative update follows extensive consultation involving:

• The Education Visa Consultative Committee (EVCC)
• The Department of Education
• The Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) and the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA)
• A total of 51 stakeholders, including higher education institutions, peak education bodies, and state and territory governments

These consultations reflect the Department's continued commitment to engaging with the education sector to maintain the integrity, clarity, and accessibility of the student visa framework.

What This Means for International Students and Education Providers

For international students, this update opens more opportunities to access streamlined English language requirements through a wider range of approved pathway programs.

For education providers and migration agents, it is essential to review the updated list of recognised programs and ensure that visa applications are lodged in line with the new requirements.

Need Expert Advice on Student Visa Requirements?

If you're an international student or education provider looking to understand how these changes affect your eligibility or enrolment processes, our expert migration team is here to help.

Book a consultation today with Growmore Immigration to ensure your student visa strategy is aligned with the latest Australian Immigration updates.