Australia has introduced a new rule, Ministerial Direction 115 (MD 115), effective November 14, 2025, which changes the way student visa applications are processed. Here’s what you need to know.
New Priority System
The Australian government will prioritize student visa applications based on the education provider’s performance and international student capacity. The system has three priority levels:
– Priority 1: Fastest processing (1-4 weeks) for institutions with less than 80% of their New Overseas Student Commencement (NOSC) allocation.
– Priority 2: Normal processing (5-8 weeks) for institutions between 80-115% of their NOSC allocation.
– Priority 3: Slowest processing (8-12+ weeks) for institutions exceeding 115% of their NOSC allocation.
Impact on Indian Students
Indian students, who make up a significant portion of Australia’s international student population, should consider applying early and choosing institutions that are within their allocated student numbers to avoid delays.
Key Takeaways
– Apply early to secure a spot in your preferred institution.
– Choose institutions with a good compliance history.
– Be prepared for potential delays if your institution is over-enrolled.
