Using the temporary graduate visa to improve the educational options for international students

The Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa presents a unique opportunity for education providers to tailor their offerings and support international students in their journey toward permanent residency in Australia. By understanding the pathways that this visa opens and aligning educational programs with these opportunities, institutions can not only attract more international students but also significantly enhance their educational and post-graduation experience.

Tailored Courses for Skilled Migration

Many holders of the 485 visa seek permanent residency through skilled migration, such as the Subclass 189 or 190 visas. Educational institutions can support these ambitions by offering courses that are directly linked to occupations on Australia’s skilled occupation list. By designing programs that meet the skills assessment criteria required for these visas, education providers can position their graduates as prime candidates for skilled migration.

Support for Employer-Sponsored PR

As the 485 visa allows graduates to gain work experience in Australia, educational institutions can facilitate connections between their international students and potential employers through career fairs, internships, and job placement services. Offering courses that are in high demand by Australian employers can also increase the likelihood of graduates securing employment that could lead to employer-sponsored permanent residency, particularly under the Subclass 186 or 494 visas.

Encouraging Regional Study and Residency

Given that the 485 visa holders can access permanent residency by living and working in designated regional areas, education providers located in these regions have a distinct advantage. They can attract international students by highlighting the benefits of studying and living in regional areas, such as a more relaxed lifestyle and lower cost of living, alongside the potential for regional permanent residency under the Subclass 191 visa.

Streamlined Support Services

To maximise the benefits of their study in Australia, international students need comprehensive support. This includes assistance with the logistics of applying for the 485 visa, such as help with skills assessments, health insurance, and police checks. Educational institutions can provide dedicated support services to guide students through these requirements smoothly and efficiently.

Enhanced Language and Preparation Courses

Since proof of English proficiency is a requirement for the 485 visa, offering robust English language courses can help prepare students not only for their initial visa application but also for their future career and residency applications in Australia. Additionally, institutions can offer preparatory courses that cover aspects of Australian work culture and job-seeking skills to further equip their graduates.

Adapting to Policy Changes

Education providers must also stay agile and informed about changes in immigration policies, such as the proposal to decrease the age limit for 485 applicants and the abolition of visa extensions. By staying updated, institutions can provide timely advice to students and adapt their program offerings to meet new criteria.

By strategically aligning their course offerings and support services with the goals and needs of 485 visa holders, educational institutions can not only enhance their attractiveness to international students but also play a pivotal role in their journey towards achieving permanent residency in Australia. This approach ensures that educational providers offer more than just academic qualifications; they become partners in their students’ long-term success.

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