Australia Tightens Visa Regulations: Key Changes to Combat International Visa Scams

In a significant move to combat international visa scams and bolster the integrity of its education system, Australia has recently implemented stringent new regulations. These measures are designed to protect students and maintain Australia’s reputation as a top destination for quality education.

Key Changes in Australian Visa Regulations

  1. Closing of Visa Loopholes: The Australian government has taken decisive action to shut down loopholes in the student visa system. These loopholes had allowed international students to switch from legitimate study programs to arrangements primarily designed to facilitate work in Australia. This change focuses on the policy of holding “concurrent COEs” (Confirmations of Enrolments), which some students were exploiting to transfer from reputable higher education and vocational training institutions to less expensive, private colleges.
  2. Increased Financial Requirements: From October 1, 2023, international students applying for a visa must demonstrate they have a minimum of AU$24,505 in savings to cover annual living costs. This is a 17% increase from previous requirements and is aimed at reflecting the higher costs of living in Australia. The government aims to ensure that students are not driven to exploitative work due to financial pressures.
  3. Scrutiny of High-risk Cohorts: There will be increased scrutiny on prospective student groups that have historically submitted a high volume of fraudulent applications. The government is also considering using its powers under Section 97 of the Education Services for Overseas Students Act (ESOS Act) to issue suspension certificates to high-risk education providers, preventing them from recruiting international students.
  4. Empowering the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA): The ASQA will be given more powers to regulate those who manage, oversee, and control Registered Training Organizations (RTOs). RTO owners will have to comply with “Fit and Proper Person” Requirements to register and operate their businesses.
  5. Addressing the Issue of ‘Course Hopping’: The trend of “course hopping,” where students transfer to less expensive, private colleges, sometimes referred to as “ghost colleges,” is being addressed. This trend has been facilitated by students obtaining two COEs (Confirmations of Enrolment) on the same visa.
  6. Phasing Out Subclass 408 Visa: The government is planning to phase out the subclass 408 “Covid-19 pandemic event” visa, which has allowed approximately 100,000 international students to transition into a full-time work visa with minimal oversight.

Impact and Intentions

These regulatory changes are a response to concerns about students being enticed away from prestigious universities into lower-fee courses that may not meet educational standards. The Australian government’s focus is to safeguard both domestic and international students, ensuring access to reputable educational institutions. These regulations are also part of efforts to maintain the significant contributions of international students to the Australian economy.

Conclusion

With these strict new regulations, Australia aims to protect the interests of students and uphold its status as a leading destination for world-class education. By targeting international visa scams, the government is proactively ensuring that students are not misled by deceptive schemes offering substandard education at lower costs.

Need Help with Your Australian Student Visa Application?

Navigating the complexities of the Australian student visa application process can be daunting, especially with the recent regulatory changes. At Study Unifees, we understand these challenges and are here to offer our expert guidance. Our team of experienced counselors is well-versed in the latest visa regulations and application procedures. By booking a free counselling session with us, you can gain valuable insights and personalized assistance to streamline your visa application process. Don’t let the intricacies of visa applications hold back your educational aspirations in Australia. Reach out to Study Unifees today and take the first step towards a smooth and successful journey to studying in Australia. Book your free counselling session now and embark on your educational journey with confidence!

Canada’s Student Visa Regulations – 2023 Visa Reforms – Recent Changes and Updates

Canada is renowned for its high-quality educational institutions and diverse, welcoming society, making it a top destination for international students. Recognizing the significant contributions of these students, Canada has implemented several measures to strengthen its International Student Program (ISP) and protect students from fraud. These changes, effective from December 2023, reflect a commitment to modernize the ISP and enhance the overall experience for international students.

Key Changes Effective December 2023

  1. Verification of Acceptance Letters: Beginning December 1, 2023, post-secondary designated learning institutions (DLIs) must confirm every applicant’s letter of acceptance directly with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This step aims to protect students from letter-of-acceptance fraud and ensure that study permits are issued based on genuine letters​​.
  2. Recognized Institution Framework: For the fall 2024 semester, IRCC will introduce a “recognized institution” framework. This system will benefit DLIs that meet higher standards for services and support for international students, offering advantages like priority processing of study permits​​.
  3. Post-Graduation Work Permit Program Reforms: IRCC plans to assess and reform the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program to align it more closely with the needs of the Canadian labor market and regional immigration goals​​.

The Trusted Institution Framework by 2024

Canada will establish a two-tiered structure for DLIs starting in 2024, differentiating between standard institutions and Trusted Institutions. Applicants to Trusted Institutions will receive expedited visa processing. This move is part of a larger strategy to modernize the ISP amidst growing concerns about student housing access and the potential for a cap on international student numbers in Canada​​.

The Trusted Institution framework, introduced in June 2023, focuses on:

  • Identifying genuine students
  • Monitoring and reporting student compliance
  • Ensuring a safe and enriching experience for international students
  • Diversifying the international student population​​

Data from IRCC files, including study permit approval rates and post-graduation outcomes, alongside new reporting requirements for DLIs, will support this framework​​. A pilot data gathering exercise with selected Canadian institutions took place in August 2023, laying the groundwork for the Trusted Institution designations to be established in spring 2024​​.

Benefits of the 2023 Visa Reforms

The new rules for student visas in Canada, implemented in 2023, aim to make the visa process faster and easier for international students. These include:

  • Streamlined application process
  • Reduced processing times
  • More online resources
  • Simplified work permit applications
  • Easier access to temporary residency permits​​​​

These reforms will especially benefit students from countries with historically long visa processing times, allowing them to start their studies more promptly​​​​.

Drawbacks and Considerations

While these changes bring several benefits, potential drawbacks include increased competition for spots in Canadian universities, cutoffs for acceptance, and changes to postgraduate work permits​​.

Support for International Students

To navigate these new rules and processes, international students can access various resources, including the Canadian Government website, foreign Canadian embassies and consulates, educational institutions with support services, and private immigration consultants​​.

In summary, these comprehensive reforms and updates to Canada’s student visa regulations demonstrate a robust effort to modernize the International Student Program, ensuring a more efficient, transparent, and supportive environment for international students in Canada.

Need Help with Your Canada Student Visa Application?

Navigating the intricacies of Canada’s student visa application can be overwhelming. If you have any questions or need expert advice and counseling, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth and successful application. Contact us today for personalized support and take the first step towards your educational journey in Canada!

GMAT Focus Edition in 2024: Things You Must Know

The GMAT Focus Edition is a new version of the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) that has been introduced to provide a more relevant and comprehensive assessment of the skills required for success in the business world. Here are some key things you must know about the GMAT Focus Edition:

  1. Test Format Changes: The GMAT Focus Edition introduces several significant changes to the exam format. These changes include:
    • Removal of the Analytical Writing Assessment (AWA) section.
    • Improvements to both the Verbal Reasoning and Quantitative sections.
    • Addition of a new section called Data Insights.
  1. Shorter Test Duration: The new test format in the GMAT Focus Edition aims to reduce test-taking fatigue and allow candidates to perform at their best throughout the exam. The overall testing time has been reduced.
  2. Simplified and Application-Focused Preparation: The GMAT Focus Edition is designed to enable students to prepare faster for the exam. The removal of the AWA section means that candidates no longer have to spend time preparing for this section. Additionally, the exam has reduced content for preparation, allowing students to focus on mastering the most critical concepts and skills required to succeed.
  3. Test Date Changes: The Classic GMAT will not be available after January 31, 2024. Starting from February 1, 2024, the GMAT Focus Edition will be the only version of the exam available.
  4. Test Scores: All applicants must submit standardized test results by the application deadline to be considered for admission to Executive MBA programs. Applicants have the option of taking the GMAT, GRE, or Executive Assessment (EA). Test scores from the GRE, GMAT, or EA must be no more than five years old. Official scores will be requested for verification if an offer of admission is received.

The GMAT Focus Edition is a next-generation version of the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) exam. Here are five things you must know about it:

  1. Launch Date: The GMAT 2024 Focus Edition was launched on November 7th, 2023.
  2. Tighter Focus on Business Skills: The GMAT 2024 Focus Edition has a tighter focus on business skills and executive decision-making, which are relevant to business school and your career.
  3. Transition Period: The classic version of the GMAT exam will continue to operate until early 2024. The GMAT 2024 Focus Edition is set to become the new standard, replacing the current GMAT exam after January 31, 2024.
  4. Application Deadlines: If you are applying for Round 1 admissions (September or October 2023), you should take the current GMAT exam. If you are applying for Round 2 or 3 admissions (December 2023 or early 2024), you should take the GMAT 2024 Focus Edition. However, application deadlines may differ by program, so it’s important to review the detailed application deadlines on the school website for the program(s) you are interested in attending.
  5. Registration and Cost: Registration for the GMAT 2024 Focus Edition is now open, and exam appointments will be available starting November 7, 2023.

The GMAT Focus Edition offers several benefits to students. Here are some of the key advantages:

  1. Tighter Focus on Business Skills: The GMAT 2024 Focus Edition has a tighter focus on business skills and executive decision-making, which are directly relevant to business school and future careers. This means that students who take the GMAT 2024 Focus Edition will be assessed on skills that are specifically tailored to the business environment of tomorrow.
  2. Enhanced Testing Experience: The GMAT 2024 Focus Edition introduces several improvements to the testing experience. Students can take the exam in any order they prefer, bookmark questions for review, and change up to three answers per section. Additionally, students have the option to choose whether to send their scores after knowing their performance rather than before. The official score report also includes detailed performance insights, which are provided free with registration.
  3. Continued Validity of Scores: Scores obtained from the current GMAT will still be valid for five years, even after the GMAT 2024 Focus Edition becomes the new standard. This means that students who have already taken the current GMAT or plan to take it before the transition period ends will still be able to use their scores for admissions purposes.
  4. Preparation Materials: Official GMAT preparation materials for the GMAT 2024 Focus Edition, including the GMAT Official Guide 2023-2024 edition and official practice tests, have been released. These resources can help students prepare effectively for the exam.
  5. Choice and Flexibility: During the transition period, students have the option to choose between the current GMAT and the GMAT 2024 Focus Edition. This allows students to select the version that aligns best with their preferences and application timelines.

If you need assistance with GMAT Focus test preparation, Study Unifees can help. We understand the importance of a strong preparation strategy and offer comprehensive support to help you achieve your best performance. Our team of experienced tutors and counselors are well-versed in the nuances of the GMAT Focus and can guide you through the preparation process. Book a free counseling session with us today and let us help you chart a path to success on the GMAT Focus.

VFS Clarification Brings Relief to India’s Canada Visa Applicants

VFS Global has clarified that its Canada-centric visa application centers will continue to operate as usual in 10 Indian cities. “Please note that our Canada visa application centers across 10 Indian cities continue to operate normally, as instructed by the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC),” VFS Global stated in an announcement issued on October 20.

Recent news reports indicate that VFS Global has announced the continued operation of its Canada visa application centers. VFS Global manages these centers in various Indian cities, including New Delhi, Jalandhar, Chandigarh, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Bengaluru.

About VFS Global

VFS Global is an organization providing administrative support services to visa applicants for various countries, including Canada. Here is some recent news related to VFS Global and its operations in Canada:

VFS Global operates Canada visa application centers in several cities in India, such as New Delhi, Jalandhar, Chandigarh, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Bengaluru. VFS Global is the exclusive service provider for the Government of Canada, authorized to offer administrative support services to visa applicants in India.

What it Means for India’s Canada Visa Applicants

Recently, Visa Facilitation Services (VFS) has provided a much-needed clarification, bringing relief to India’s Canada visa applicants. This announcement has been a breath of fresh air for thousands of individuals eagerly awaiting their visa approvals, as it addresses a series of concerns and uncertainties looming over the application process.

The clarification issued by VFS Global concerning the functioning of Canada visa application centers in India has several implications for Indian applicants looking to travel to Canada, whether it be for study, work, or immigration purposes:

Continuity of Services:VFS Canada visa application centres in 10 Indian cities continue to operate as usual and will maintain regular operations.

Uninterrupted Operations: This ensures that applicants can submit their applications and attend visa interviews without disruptions.

Stability: This confirmation provides stability, dispelling any confusion or rumors about potential closures or disruptions in visa services.

The VFS clarification primarily focuses on streamlining the visa application process and ensuring transparency for applicants. A key change introduced is the provision of a clear timeline for visa processing, aiming to alleviate the anxiety and frustration experienced by applicants left in the dark about the status of their applications.

Moreover, the clarification emphasizes that all visa applications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, considering individual circumstances. This approach marks a significant departure from the previous one-size-fits-all evaluation approach. By adopting a more personalized strategy, VFS aims to ensure fair and equitable treatment for all applicants.

Another crucial aspect of the clarification is the introduction of a dedicated helpline for applicants, providing assistance and tracking the progress of their applications. This helpline is expected to serve as a valuable resource for individuals facing difficulties or encountering challenges during the application process, enhancing communication, addressing concerns promptly, and ultimately increasing applicant satisfaction.

VFS has also emphasized its commitment to maintaining the highest security and data privacy standards. The clarification highlights measures taken to safeguard applicant information and ensure it is handled with the utmost care. This assurance will likely instill confidence among applicants, as data security concerns have been a recurring issue in visa application processes.

The timely clarification from VFS has been met with enthusiasm and relief by India’s Canada visa applicants. Many have expressed gratitude for the increased transparency and improved communication channels. This development is expected to boost overall confidence in the application process and encourage more individuals to pursue their dreams of studying, working, or immigrating to Canada.

While the VFS clarification brings some relief, it is important to note that visa applications will still be subject to thorough evaluation to ensure compliance with Canada’s immigration policies. However, the new measures implemented by VFS demonstrate a commitment to fairness, efficiency, and applicant satisfaction.

As India’s Canada visa applicants navigate through the revised application process, the hope is that the VFS clarification will pave the way for smoother and more streamlined visa approvals.

Canada Job Scam. : A village in Punjab has fallen victim to a scam, resulting in 178 young individuals losing Rs 2.3 crore

canada job scam

 

Scams and frauds have become increasingly prevalent in today’s digital age, targeting unsuspecting individuals and causing financial devastation. One such incident recently came to light in a village in Punjab, where 178 young individuals fell victim to a scam, losing a total of Rs 2.3 crore. This incident has underscored the importance of remaining vigilant and informed to protect oneself from such fraudulent activities.

The Promise of a Better Future

The scam began when Palwinder Singh, a resident of Wave City in Ghaziabad, met Popinder Singh, who introduced himself as a senior HR executive of a company based in Ottawa, the capital of Canada. Popinder claimed to have job opportunities in various sectors in Canada and offered Palwinder a chance to earn a commission by finding suitable candidates for these positions. Excited by the prospect of a better future, Palwinder eagerly began his search for potential job seekers in his village, Chawa, located in the Gurdaspur district.

The Lure of Foreign Employment

In Chawa, Palwinder easily found numerous youths who were eager to pursue careers in a foreign country. The promise of a minimum monthly salary of 3,380 Canadian dollars, which amounted to around Rs 2 lakh, was significantly higher than what many of them earned in an entire year. Popinder, representing a company called Zenith Manpower Services, Canada, asked the aspiring job seekers to pay for their visas and other necessary documents to secure employment in Canada.

The Unveiling of the Scam

The 178 youths from Chawa were asked to make payments ranging from Rs 80,000 to 1.5 lakh each for the visa process. To their delight, 61 of them received air tickets and offer letters at their homes. However, their excitement was short-lived when they discovered that their tickets had been canceled. Suspecting foul play, they decided to visit the Canadian embassy in Delhi to verify the authenticity of the documents provided to them. To their dismay, they were informed that all the documents, including the offer letters, were forged.

The Aftermath and Legal Action

Realizing that they had fallen victim to a scam, the youths attempted to contact Palwinder, Popinder, and Preeti, who worked alongside Popinder as his manager. However, their calls went unanswered, and the office in CP, where they had interacted with the fraudsters, was locked. Frustrated and devastated, they lodged a complaint with the police, leading to the registration of an FIR against Popinder and Preeti. The accused individuals face charges under several sections of the Indian Penal Code, including criminal breach of trust, cheating, and forgery.

The Impact on the Village

The scam has had a profound impact on the village of Chawa, leaving its residents in shock and distress. Many of the youths who lost their hard-earned money are from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, and the scam has dealt a severe blow to their hopes and aspirations for a better future. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of exercising caution when presented with lucrative opportunities, especially those that involve financial transactions and promises of overseas employment.

UK Visa Fees Going Up from October 4, 2023! Update for Indian Students Planning to Study in the UK

Attention Indian students planning to pursue their dream of studying in the UK. We have an important update for you!

Starting October 4, 2023, UK visa fees will increase, with a £15 increase for visit visas and a £127 hike for student visas, affecting travelers worldwide, including Indians.

The changes mean that the cost for a visit visa for less than six months is rising by £15 to £115, while the fee for applying for a student visa from outside the UK will rise by £127 to £490, to equal the amount charged for in-country applications. 

Starting October 4, 2023, the UK visa fees will undergo a significant increase that may impact your plans. Stay informed and prepared as we share all the details you need to know about these changes.

The UK government has announced an increase in visa fees, affecting travelers from around the world, including Indian students.

This news brings uncertainty for Indian students who are planning to study in the UK. Navigating the student visa process can be overwhelming, but there is assistance available. If you are an Indian student requiring help with your UK student visa application, Study Unifees is here to provide guidance and support.

Study Unifees is an organization well-versed in helping students successfully apply for their UK student visas. With Our expertise and dedication, We can offer valuable insights into the application process, visa requirements, and other related aspects.

Contact Study Unifees today to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey towards your educational goals in the UK.

 

Australian Student Visa Financial Requirements to Rise by 17% from October 1, 2023

Starting from October 1, 2023, international students applying for an Australian student visa will need to show evidence of at least $24,505 in savings. This is a 17% increase on the previous amount of $21,041, which was set in 2019 and has not been indexed since then. The increase is due to higher living expenses and is aimed at ensuring that students arriving in Australia have enough funds to support themselves and do not face an increased risk of exploitation due to an urgent need for employment. The new financial capacity requirement will apply to those who lodge a new application on or after October 1, 2023, while those who apply before that date will not be affected by the new requirement.

Starting from October 1, 2023, international students seeking to study in Australia will have to dig a little deeper into their pockets. The Australian government announced that those applying for a student visa will now need to show evidence of at least $24,505 in savings, marking a 17% increase from the previous requirement.

The past financial benchmark was set at $21,041 in 2019 and remained unchanged for the subsequent years. This recent amendment in the financial capacity requirement is an attempt by the government to align the visa prerequisites with the rising living expenses in the country. By ensuring that incoming international students possess adequate funds, the government aims to protect these students from potential exploitation. Students facing immediate financial constraints often fall into employment vulnerabilities, which the new directive hopes to mitigate.

It’s essential for potential applicants to note that the updated financial requirement will only affect those lodging their applications on or after October 1, 2023. This means that any student submitting their visa application before this date will be assessed based on the earlier threshold of $21,041.

The move comes as Australia continues to attract a growing number of international students, drawn to its world-class educational institutions and quality of life. However, with this change, prospective students must be more financially prepared to ensure a seamless and safe study experience Down Under.

The Australian government reiterated its commitment to offering a safe and conducive environment for international students and believes that this step is in line with that vision.

Prospective students are advised to be aware of this change and plan their finances accordingly to ensure a smooth visa application process.

 


If you’re planning for studying in Australia and need assistance with the student visa process, consider reaching out to Study Unifees. We specialize in guiding students through the visa application process, ensuring a smooth transition to your Australian educational journey. With our expertise, you can navigate the complexities with ease and focus on preparing for your studies.

IRCC’s Approval of TOEFL iBT Makes it Easier to Immigrate to Canada

TOEFL iBT: A Gateway to Studying in Canada through the Student Direct Stream (SDS) Program

Looking to study abroad in Canada? A key step on this journey is meeting language proficiency tests for the Student Direct Stream (SDS) program. Excitingly, TOEFL iBT, one of the major English language proficiency tests, has been greenlighted by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for the SDS program.

From August 10, 2023, TOEFL iBT scores procured at a certified test centre will be accepted for SDS applications. The SDS program offers a streamlined study permit process for international students eager to enrol in Canada’s renowned post-secondary designated learning institutions.

If you have your eyes set on the SDS program, here’s what you need to do:

Confirm your legal residency in one of the 14 countries that qualify for the SDS program. Ensure a TOEFL iBT score of at least 80. Procure a legitimate admission offer from a Canadian post-secondary designated learning institution.

Have enough funds to sustain your Canadian education journey. Once you meet these prerequisites, kickstart your SDS application by setting up an online account with IRCC. This online portal will be your go-to place to upload your TOEFL iBT scores and other required documentation.

Below are some pro tips to ace your TOEFL iBT:

  • Early registration for the test is advisable.
  • Leverage the TOEFL iBT Practice Test software for mock attempts.
  • Arrive at the test centre ahead of time with a valid ID.
  • Maintain calm and concentrate on giving your best shot.
  • Remember, your dream of studying in Canada is just a TOEFL iBT away.
  • Best of luck with your academic pursuits in Canada!

Note:- Please write in the English language.

Also, Read more about the topic

 

Canada Accepts PTE Academic for Student Direct Streams of 10th August 2023

Breaking News for Study Abroad Hopefuls: Canada’s SDS Applications Now Accept PTE Academic and TOEFL iBT

Big news for those looking to study abroad! Recently, the Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that they’ll accept four new English language test results, including PTE Academic and TOEFL iBT, for Student Direct Stream (SDS) applications.

These changes come into effect on August 10, 2023.

Well-regarded around the globe, PTE and TOEFL are English proficiency tests. Universities worldwide accept them as evidence of a candidate’s English language skills.

Their acceptance in the SDS applications provides applicants with a wider choice of tests to better suit their language abilities.

Planning to take the TOEFL or PTE?

Keep reading to learn more about their recent approval in Canada’s SDS applications.

A Closer Look at Canada’s Student Direct Stream (SDS)

Launched in 2018, SDS speeds up the study permit process for students from select countries, processing most applications within 20 calendar days. This efficient approach makes SDS a top choice for international students from eligible countries.

Residents from nations like India, Antigua and Barbuda, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Morocco, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Senegal, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam are eligible to apply.

Next, let’s delve into the specifics of PTE & TOEFL for SDS Applications.

Choosing PTE Academic for SDS Applications

The PTE Academic, a two-hour, computer-based English test, is globally acknowledged for study, work, or migration. Now, it’s also accepted for Canada’s SDS applications.

As per the IRCC announcement, SDS applications will accept PTE Academic scores starting August 10, 2023, with a minimum required PTE score of 60.

Advantages of PTE Academic for SDS

Countless universities and institutions in Canada accept PTE Academic. Over 400 PTE centres exist in 118 countries. Prior PTE Academic score reports can be used for the SDS application.

You can schedule test slots online up to 24 hours ahead, and results typically arrive within 1.3 days.

Choosing TOEFL iBT for SDS Applications

TOEFL iBT, a test measuring English proficiency in reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills, now takes under two hours. Starting from August 10, 2023, SDS applications will accept TOEFL iBT scores, as stated by IRCC, with a minimum required score of 83.

Benefits of TOEFL iBT for SDS Applications

TOEFL iBT is globally accepted by over 12,000 universities and institutions in more than 160 countries, including Canada’s SDS applications. Numerous test centres are available in over 200 countries.

You can register for test slots online up to two days before the test, and results typically arrive within four days.

The addition of PTE Academic and TOEFL iBT tests as evidence of English proficiency widens the options for test takers and assists them in their Canadian permanent residency or citizenship ambitions.

These high-quality tests are extremely accurate, helping candidates fulfil their dream of studying in an English-speaking nation. So, if you’re getting ready to apply for Canadian study permits through SDS, now’s the ideal time to start preparing!

Note – For more information read more…