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How to Write a Genuine Student (GS) Statement for an Australian Student Visa

Student Visa

How to Write a Genuine Student (GS) Statement for an Australian Student Visa

The Genuine Student statement replaced the old GTE requirement in 2023. A weak statement is one of the most common reasons for student visa refusals. This guide shows you exactly how to write one that works.

Student Visa8 min readActive Study Australia

The Genuine Student (GS) statement replaced the old Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for Australian student visa applications in November 2023. Like the GTE before it, the GS statement is one of the most critical documents in your student visa application - and one of the most common reasons for refusals when it is done poorly.

What Is the Genuine Student Statement?

The GS statement is a written declaration that explains why you want to study in Australia, how your chosen course fits your circumstances and goals, and how studying in Australia is consistent with your life plans. The key question is whether your education goals are genuine - not whether you plan to return home.

What the Department Is Looking For

  • Academic history: Do your previous qualifications and study history support the level of study you are applying for?
  • Course relevance: Does the course you have chosen make sense for your background and goals?
  • Career and personal goals: Do your stated goals align with the course and institution you have chosen?
  • Immigration history: Have you complied with previous visa conditions?
  • Financial circumstances: Can you genuinely support yourself financially during your studies?

Common Mistakes That Lead to Refusals

  • Vague or generic statements: "I want to study in Australia because it has good universities" tells the Department nothing
  • Inconsistency with your academic background: Applying for an advanced qualification in an unrelated field raises questions
  • Failing to explain a gap in study: If years have passed since your last study, explain what you were doing and why you are returning to education
  • Copy-pasted content: The Department is experienced at recognising templated statements

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What to Include in Your GS Statement

1. Your educational background

Briefly describe your previous study, including institution, qualification, and completion date. Explain how this prepared you for the Australian course you are applying for.

2. Why this course

Be specific about what attracted you to this course - the curriculum, the faculty, industry connections, or specific subjects. Refer to actual course features, not marketing language.

3. Why this institution

Explain why you chose this particular provider over alternatives. Rankings, industry partnerships, location, and campus facilities can all be relevant - but keep it genuine and specific.

4. Why Australia

Explain why you are studying in Australia rather than in your home country or another destination. Be honest and specific - this is not an invitation to write a tourism brochure.

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5. Your career or personal goals

Explain how completing this course will help you achieve your career or personal goals. If your goal is to work in Australia after graduating, this is now an acceptable and transparent position to take. Be clear and specific about what pathway you are planning.

6. Your financial situation

Briefly confirm that you have access to the funds required for your tuition and living costs, and explain the source of those funds. Consistency between your statement and your bank documents is critical.

Length and Tone

A well-written GS statement is typically 400-800 words. It should be clear, structured, and written in your own voice. Avoid legal or bureaucratic language - write as you would explain your situation to an intelligent person who knows nothing about your background.

How We Help

At Active Study Australia, our migration agents review and advise on GS statements as part of every student visa application we handle. We have seen what works and what the Department focuses on - and we make sure your statement is accurate, consistent, and compelling before it goes in. Have your statement reviewed by a MARA-registered agent before submission.

Frequently Asked Questions

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