Australia continues to be one of the most sought-after destinations for Sri Lankan students pursuing higher education abroad. With world-class universities, post-study work opportunities, and a multicultural environment, it’s no surprise that thousands of students apply each year.
However, starting September 30, 2025, the Australian Department of Home Affairs has introduced significant changes to student visa Evidence Level requirements and a new Genuine Student (GS) test, replacing the previous Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. These updates are designed to ensure that all international students, including those from Sri Lanka, are genuinely committed to studying in Australia and can financially support their education.
🎓 What Are the New Evidence Level Requirements?
The new Evidence Level (EL) (Australian Countries Assessment Level) system determines how much documentation a student must provide during their visa application. The levels are based on the risk rating of the applicant’s home country and the education provider (university or institution).
| Evidence Level | Risk Category | Countries | Application Process |
| Level 1 | Low Risk | 🇱🇰Sri Lanka, 🇧🇩Bangladesh | Simplified and Faster process |
| Level 2 | Medium Risk | 🇮🇳India, 🇳🇵Nepal, 🇨🇳 China, 🇧🇹Bhutan, 🇻🇳Vietnam | Additional Financial and Academic Documents required |
| Level 3 | High Risk | 🇵🇰Pakistan, 🇵🇭Phillippines, 🇫🇯Fiji | Extensive Documentation and Interviews may apply |
✅ For Sri Lankan Students (Level 1)
Being classified under Level 1 (Low Risk) is excellent news for Sri Lankan applicants. This means a streamlined visa process, with fewer document requirements and faster approvals, provided your application meets the Genuine Student (GS) criteria.
🧭 Understanding the Genuine Student (GS) Requirement
The Genuine Student (GS) test is a major change, replacing the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE).
Under GS, students must now demonstrate:
- A clear academic purpose and logical study pathway
- Financial capacity to support tuition and living costs
- Commitment to return or use education meaningfully after graduation
- Genuine intention to pursue studies rather than migration
This new requirement shifts focus from temporary entry to genuine study motivation, helping ensure integrity in the Australian education system.
| Document type | Required for Level 1 | Required for Level 2 & 3 |
| Passport & ID | ✅ | ✅ |
| Offer Letter/ CoE | ✅ | ✅ |
| Academic Transcripts | ✅ Upon requirements* | ✅ Mandatory |
| Financial Statements | ✅ Upon requirements* | ✅ Mandatory |
| English Proficiency (IELTS/PTE) | ✅ | ✅ |
| Statement of Purpose (GS) | ✅ | ✅ |
| Health Insurance (OSHC) | ✅ | ✅ |
Tip
👉 Even if you’re a Level 1 student, submitting strong financial and academic evidence can still strengthen your visa application.
💡 What Does This Mean for Sri Lankan Students?
For Sri Lankan students, these changes make the visa process faster and more predictable, as long as your application is genuine and well-prepared. However, it also means the quality of your documentation, SOP, and academic pathway matters more than ever. Partnering with a trusted education consultant can help you meet the new GS standards and minimise the risk of rejection.
🌏 Why Study in Australia in 2025/2026?
- 🎓 Top-ranked universities recognised globally
- 🧑🎓 Internships and skill-building opportunities during study
- 💼 Post-study work visas offering up to 4 years
- 🏙️ Vibrant student cities like Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane & Adelaide
- 💰 Scholarship opportunities for Sri Lankan students
🕓 How to Apply for an Australian Student Visa (studyaustralia.gov.au)
| Process |
| 1. Choose a CRICOS-registered course & institution |
| 2. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) |
| 3. Prepare documents as per your Evidence Level |
| 4. Write a strong Genuine Student (GS) Statement |
| 5. Apply for a visa subclass 500 |
| 6. Complete health check & biometric verification |
| 7. Wait for the decision and get ready to fly to Australia! |
💬 Expert Advice from AIA Study Abroad
At AIA Study Abroad, we’ve helped hundreds of Sri Lankan students successfully secure their Australian student visas. With the new GS and Evidence Level updates, expert guidance is now more important than ever.
Our team assists with:
- ✅ Course and university selection
- ✅ Genuine Student (GS) statement preparation
- ✅ Visa documentation and submission
- ✅ Pre-departure and post-arrival support
Ready to Start Your Australian Journey?
📍 Branches:
Colombo Head Office: No 329 Galle Road, Colombo 04 (Meewella Building
Kandy Branch Office: 675 William Gopallawa Mw, Kandy
🦘Let AIA Study Abroad guide you through the new Evidence Level process and ensure your 🇦🇺 Australian dream becomes a reality!
