GTE or Genuine Temporary Entrant is a formal statement of purpose that international students have to submit while applying for a student visa 500. The GTE is a means for international students to put their reasons forward – their intent to study in Australia. The statement typically also conveys the intention to apply for the student visa 500.

The GTE is assessed based on your personal circumstances and situation

In the process of submitting the GTE, you must address its requirements, such as the information request, in English. You must then attach the GTE document with the other student visa support documents. If English is not your native language then you may submit this document written in your regional language. However, along with the document, you must also submit a translated copy for the document to the visa officer.

Whatever you claim in your written statement must be evidenced by supporting documents. At the same time, generic statements need not be supported by any kind of evidence as they will not be heavily weighted in the GTE assessment. The GTE is assessed and a decision is based on your personal circumstances. Your situation as a whole is considered when determining whether you are a genuine temporary entrant. There are a number of factors used to determine whether or not you meet the GTE requirements. 

In this blog, we’re here to discuss the detailed requirements requested through the GTE document. You may seek further assistance to learn more details about GTE from our overseas education consultants.

GTE requirements and the evidence required with the written statement

It is crucial to be aware of the GTE requirements, especially for students categorised under student visa 500. There are various requirements to be considered and also the evidence you need to attach to support the details you provide in the GTE written statement.

• Previous study

• Submit your academic transcripts showing qualifications gained
• Enlist and name your education provider(s)
• Mention the duration of your previous study
• Attach your certificates of attainment

• Gap in previous study

• If you had a study gap year then you must state your reasons behind it including where you did not maintain enrolment

• Current employment

• Add details about your current employer
• State the company address
• Mentioned the period of your employment
• Add the job description or details of your position
• Mention the name and contact details of the individual who can confirm the circumstances of your employment

• Connection to your country of origin or residence

• You need to provide evidence of financial, family or social ties. You must provide relevant information stating that you have significant reasons to return home.

• Share details of your economic situation in home country

• Attach documents showing employment or business activities for 12 months prior to lodging an application.
• Share the potential employment offers including salary and other benefits, after the completion of your course.
• Attach your income tax return or bank statements.

• If you are employed in a third country

You must provide the potential employment offers, including salary and other benefits, after your course completion. You may include as much information and proof in your GTE statement to provide a full view of your situation. This will help the visa officer to make a decision on your student visa application. If complete information is not provided, more details and supporting documents will be requested from you, further delaying your GTE approval.

How is the GTE statement assessed?

The student visa program is designed for international students to maintain ongoing residency in Australia. It is a means to make sure the student visa program is applied for as intended.

The GTE requirement helps assess applicants who are misusing the student visa program for motives other than acquiring quality education.

Situations in your country of residence

The following factors are considered:

• reason for not acquiring education in your home country if a similar course is available
• ties that support an intention to return to your home country after completion of your studies
• your current economic situation
• if you have any military service commitments
• if there is political and civil unrest in your home country

Potential situation in Australia

The following factors are considered:

• ties to Australia that present a strong reason to stay in Australia
• level of knowledge of the course selected and education provider
• your previous study and qualifications
• your pre-planned living arrangements
• your current financial stability

Value of the course to your future

The following factors are considered:

• if the course chosen by you is consistent with the level of education that you have pursued so far
• if the course of choice is significant to past or proposed future employment in your home country or a third country
• details about the expected salary and benefits in your home country or a third country obtained with your qualifications from the proposed course of study

Your immigration history

The following factors are considered:

• a visa application previously applied for Australia or any other country
• any visa refusals or cancellations

That said, if you are a minor, the intentions of your parents or legal guardian will be considered.

The processing time for a GTE assessment takes at least 10 working days and varies depending on your country of residence.

Why Australia is considered one of the most preferred places to study

Pursuing a career in Australia elevates your professional standing in terms of future job prospects. You gain global experience of working in a company based in Australia. Furthermore, gaining an education qualification in Australia gives you the opportunity to also take up a career path in the country. Therefore, if you are looking forward to studying in Australia, it may help you understand the student visa 500 requirements before applying for a visa.

Australia is home to some of the most prestigious education universities that offer a knowledge-based and learning experience different from most countries. At the same time, studying in Australia gives you the chance to experience an advanced standard of living. You also get to meet new people and make new friends, including developing a significant network relevant to your career.