On 23 May 2025, the Department of Home Affairs registered LIN 25/027, amending the Migration (English Language Tests and Evidence Exemptions for Subclass 500 (Student) Visa) Instrument (LIN 24/022) under Schedule 2 to the Migration Regulations 1994.
This legislative amendment updates the list of eligible pathway programs used to determine whether a student visa applicant may be eligible for lower English language test score requirements.
Key Changes Introduced by LIN 25/027:
- The number of registered courses recognised as eligible pathway programs has increased from 155 to 166, following consultation with education sector stakeholders.
- The title of Column 4 in the pathway program table has been changed from "Provider" to "Destination University" to better reflect institutional enrolment pathways.
- The instrument updates 21 course entries to reflect the merger of the University of South Australia and the University of Adelaide, now consolidated under Adelaide University.
- All amendments apply to Subclass 500 visa applications lodged on or after the instrument’s commencement.
Purpose of the Amendment:
The amendment supports greater transparency and consistency in English language evidence requirements for international students enrolled in approved pathway programs — pre-university courses that lead to second-year entry at an Australian undergraduate institution and are recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).
Students enrolled in these approved pathway programs may provide lower English language test scores, as outlined in Schedule 1 to LIN 24/022.
Consultation:
This update follows extensive consultation with:
- The Education Visa Consultative Committee (EVCC)
- The Department of Education
- TEQSA and ASQA
- 51 stakeholders, including universities, peak bodies, and state and territory governments
This amendment reflects the Department’s ongoing engagement with the education sector and efforts to ensure the integrity and clarity of the Subclass 500 visa program while supporting access for international students through structured academic pathways.
Source:
Migration-English-Language-Tests-and-Evidence-Exemptions-for-Sc500-Student-visa-amendment-pathway-programs-Instrument-2025.pdf
and
Migration-English-Language-Tests-and-Evidence-Exemptions-for-Sc500-Student-visa-amendment-pathway-programs-Instrument-2025-EXPLANATORY.pdf
