Starting 14 November 2025, offshore Student Visa (Subclass 500) applications will be processed under a new three-tier priority system based on each institution’s international enrolment ratio.

This replaces Direction No.111 and applies to all new offshore applications lodged on or after the effective date.

[caption id="attachment_7287" align="aligncenter" width="653"]

Source: Australian Department of Home Affairs[/caption]

Priority 1 — Fastest Processing

• Universities, TAFE, and VET providers below 80% enrolment threshold
• Includes public universities such as UNSW, Monash, Adelaide, UTS, RMIT, etc.
• Also applies to the following student categories:• School sector (primary & secondary)
• • Standalone ELICOS or language programs
• • TAFE / VET students
• • Pilot training courses
• • Research-based Master’s or PhD students
• • Government, defence, or scholarship students
• • Students from Pacific or Timor-Leste programs
• • Transnational education (TNE) students

Priority 2 — Standard Processing

• Institutions between 80% and 115% of enrolment capacity
• Dependant (subsequent entrant) visa applicants

Priority 3 — Slower Processing

• Institutions exceeding 115% of international student capacity
• New applications may experience longer visa processing times, especially for high-demand universities

Processing Priority Summary

🎓 Riverwood Advice:

If you plan to apply to competitive universities or high-demand courses, submit your application early to stay within the fast-track category.

WhatsApp: +61 2 8977 7530

Book Consultation: https://calendly.com/getprfaster

Email: enquiry@riverwoodmigration.com

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