Reference Guide
Australian Education Glossary
Every acronym, visa condition, and education term international students need to understand when studying in Australia — explained in plain English.
This glossary covers 30 essential terms that international students encounter when applying to study in Australia. Each definition is written in plain language to help you navigate the Australian education system with confidence. For personalised guidance, explore our services or contact our advisors.
AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency)
AHPRA is the national organisation responsible for registering and regulating health practitioners in Australia. International students studying health-related courses such as nursing, medicine, pharmacy, or physiotherapy must register with AHPRA before they can practise in Australia. AHPRA ensures all health professionals meet national standards for education, training, and professional conduct.
AQF (Australian Qualifications Framework)
The AQF is the national policy for regulated qualifications in Australian education and training. It covers qualifications from senior secondary school certificates through to doctoral degrees, spanning 10 levels. The AQF ensures that qualifications from different education providers are nationally consistent and recognised, making it easier for international students to understand how their chosen course fits within the Australian education system.
CoE (Confirmation of Enrolment)
A CoE is an official electronic document issued by a CRICOS-registered education provider confirming that an international student has been accepted and enrolled in a course. You need a valid CoE to apply for an Australian student visa (Subclass 500). The CoE contains details about your course, start and end dates, tuition fees, and the provider's CRICOS code.
CPA (Certified Practising Accountant)
CPA Australia is one of the three major professional accounting bodies in Australia. International students who complete a CPA-accredited accounting degree can pursue CPA certification, which is recognised globally. CPA qualification is particularly valuable for students seeking skilled migration pathways, as accounting remains on the Skilled Occupation List.
CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students)
CRICOS is the Australian Government's official register of education providers and courses approved to enrol international students on student visas. Only CRICOS-registered institutions can legally teach international students in Australia. Every institution listed on Tilt SAMS is CRICOS-registered, ensuring they meet strict government standards for educational quality, student welfare, and financial viability.
ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students)
ELICOS are specialised English language courses designed for international students who need to improve their English proficiency before starting their main academic programme in Australia. These courses are offered by universities, colleges, and dedicated language schools, and are registered under CRICOS. ELICOS programmes range from general English to academic English preparation.
ESOS Act (Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000)
The ESOS Act is the Australian federal legislation that sets out the legal framework for the delivery of education services to international students. It establishes the responsibilities of education providers, protects students' rights (including tuition fee refunds), and is enforced through the ESOS National Code. The ESOS framework ensures international students receive quality education and support during their studies in Australia.
GPA (Grade Point Average)
GPA is a numerical measure of a student's academic performance. Australian universities typically use a 7-point GPA scale, where 7 is the highest (High Distinction) and 4 is a Pass. Some institutions use a 4-point scale similar to the US system. International students applying to Australian universities will often need to have their home country grades converted to an equivalent GPA for admission assessment.
Group of Eight (Go8)
The Group of Eight is a coalition of Australia's eight most research-intensive and prestigious universities: the University of Melbourne, Australian National University, University of Sydney, University of Queensland, University of New South Wales, Monash University, University of Western Australia, and University of Adelaide. Go8 universities consistently rank in the world's top 100 and are known for research excellence and high academic standards.
GSR (Genuine Student Requirement)
The Genuine Student Requirement (GSR) replaced the former Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement in March 2024. Under the GSR, student visa applicants must demonstrate that they are a genuine student who intends to obtain a quality educational outcome. The assessment considers your educational background, course relevance to future career goals, financial capacity, English proficiency, and immigration history. A strong GSR statement is essential for visa approval.
GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) — Legacy
The GTE requirement was the former assessment criterion for Australian student visa applications that required applicants to demonstrate their genuine intention to stay temporarily in Australia for study purposes. The GTE was replaced by the Genuine Student Requirement (GSR) in March 2024. If you are applying for a student visa now, you should refer to the current GSR criteria instead.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
IELTS is one of the most widely accepted English language proficiency tests for Australian university admission and student visa applications. The IELTS Academic test measures reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills on a 9-band scale. Most Australian universities require a minimum overall score of 6.0 to 6.5 for undergraduate courses and 6.5 to 7.0 for postgraduate programmes.
ImmiAccount
ImmiAccount is the Australian Department of Home Affairs' online portal where you create an account, lodge visa applications, upload supporting documents, check application status, and receive visa decisions. All Australian student visa (Subclass 500) applications are lodged through ImmiAccount. It is important to keep your ImmiAccount details secure and check it regularly for updates or requests for additional information.
MARA (Migration Agents Registration Authority)
MARA is the regulatory body that registers and oversees migration agents in Australia. Only MARA-registered agents are legally permitted to provide immigration assistance in Australia. When seeking help with your student visa, always verify that your migration agent is MARA-registered by checking the official register. Using an unregistered agent is risky and may jeopardise your visa application.
NAATI (National Accreditation Authority for Translators and Interpreters)
NAATI is the national standards and accreditation body for translators and interpreters in Australia. International students who need to have their academic transcripts, birth certificates, or other documents translated for visa or university applications must use a NAATI-certified translator. NAATI accreditation also provides a career pathway for students studying translation and interpreting courses.
OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover)
OSHC is mandatory health insurance that all international students must hold for the duration of their student visa in Australia. OSHC covers hospital treatment, doctor visits, pathology, diagnostic imaging, ambulance services, and prescription medicines. Approved providers include Medibank, Bupa, Allianz Care, ahm, and nib. You cannot be granted a student visa without evidence of adequate OSHC coverage.
Pathway Program
A pathway program is a structured course designed to help international students who do not meet direct entry requirements gain admission to an Australian university degree. Common pathways include foundation studies (preparing for undergraduate entry), diploma programmes (providing credit towards the second year of a bachelor's degree), and ELICOS courses for English language preparation. Pathways are offered by universities and affiliated colleges.
PR (Permanent Residency)
Permanent Residency refers to the immigration status that allows a person to live and work in Australia permanently without a visa expiry date. International graduates can pursue PR through several pathways including employer sponsorship, the General Skilled Migration programme (using points-based visas such as Subclass 189 or 190), or state and territory nomination. Studying in Australia can contribute migration points and lead to post-study work rights that facilitate PR applications.
PTE (Pearson Test of English Academic)
PTE Academic is a computer-based English language proficiency test accepted by all Australian universities and the Department of Home Affairs for student visa applications. The test measures speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills and is scored on a scale of 10 to 90. PTE Academic results are typically available within 48 hours, making it a popular choice for students who need quick results.
RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning)
RPL is a process by which Australian education providers assess and formally recognise skills and knowledge gained through previous study, work experience, or life experience. If you have relevant prior learning, you may be granted credit towards your Australian qualification, potentially reducing the duration and cost of your course. RPL is commonly used in VET (vocational education and training) courses but is also available at universities.
SOL (Skilled Occupation List)
The Skilled Occupation List is an Australian Government list of occupations that are in demand and eligible for skilled migration visas. International graduates whose qualifications align with occupations on the SOL may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through the General Skilled Migration programme. The list is updated regularly, so it is important to check the current version when planning your study and migration pathway.
Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate Visa)
The Subclass 485 visa allows international students who have recently graduated from an Australian institution to live and work in Australia temporarily. The Graduate Work stream requires a qualification related to an occupation on the SOL and grants up to 18 months of work rights. The Post-Study Work stream grants 2 to 4 years depending on the qualification level (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degree). Graduates from regional institutions may receive additional time.
Subclass 500 (Student Visa)
Subclass 500 is the standard Australian student visa for international students enrolled in a registered full-time course. It permits you to study in Australia for the duration of your course, work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time (unlimited during scheduled breaks), and include family members as dependants. You must hold a valid CoE, meet the Genuine Student Requirement, have OSHC, and demonstrate financial capacity to be granted this visa.
TFN (Tax File Number)
A TFN is a unique number issued by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) that identifies you for tax purposes. International students who intend to work in Australia (including part-time or casual work) must apply for a TFN after arriving in the country. Without a TFN, your employer will withhold tax at the highest marginal rate. Applying for a TFN is free and can be done online through the ATO website once you are in Australia.
TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
TOEFL iBT is an internet-based English language proficiency test accepted by many Australian universities for admission purposes. The test measures reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills and is scored out of 120. While IELTS and PTE are more commonly used in Australia, TOEFL remains a valid option. Typical minimum requirements for Australian universities range from 79 to 94 for undergraduate and 94 to 100 for postgraduate courses.
USI (Unique Student Identifier)
A USI is a reference number that creates a secure online record of all nationally recognised training and qualifications obtained in Australia. All students (including international students) undertaking nationally recognised VET courses must have a USI. Your USI links to an online account that contains all your training records and results from 1 January 2015 onwards. You can create a USI for free on the official USI website.
VET (Vocational Education and Training)
VET refers to education and training that provides practical skills and knowledge for specific industries and occupations. VET courses in Australia range from Certificate I to Advanced Diploma level and are delivered by TAFEs (Technical and Further Education institutes) and private registered training organisations (RTOs). Many international students choose VET courses as a more affordable and practical alternative to university degrees, or as a pathway to university study.
Visa Condition 8105 (Work Limitation)
Visa Condition 8105 restricts the amount of work a student visa holder can undertake during their studies. Currently, international students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session. During scheduled course breaks, there is no limit on work hours. Breaching Condition 8105 by working more than the permitted hours can result in your visa being cancelled, so it is important to track your work hours carefully.
Visa Condition 8202 (Course Requirements)
Visa Condition 8202 requires student visa holders to remain enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course and maintain satisfactory attendance and academic progress as defined by their education provider. If you fail to meet course requirements, your provider is obligated to report you to the Department of Home Affairs, which may lead to visa cancellation. If you are struggling academically, seek help from your provider's student support services as early as possible.
Work Rights (Student Visa)
Work rights for international students on a Subclass 500 visa allow you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. These work rights begin once your course has commenced. Working in Australia helps students gain professional experience, supplement living costs, and build local networks. Your employer must pay at least the Australian minimum wage and comply with Fair Work regulations.
Learn More
Related Resources
Explore our detailed guides on the topics covered in this glossary.
Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Step-by-step guide to applying for your Australian student visa, including document requirements and processing times.
Genuine Student Requirement
Understand the GSR criteria and how to write a compelling statement for your visa application.
OSHC Health Cover
Compare OSHC providers, understand what is covered, and find the right health insurance for your student visa.
English Requirements
IELTS, PTE, TOEFL and other English tests accepted by Australian universities and for visa applications.
University Admission
How to apply to CRICOS-registered universities and education providers through Tilt SAMS.
Scholarships
Discover scholarship opportunities for international students studying in Australia in 2026.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Australian education terms and student visa requirements.
What is CRICOS and why does it matter for international students?
CRICOS stands for the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. It is the Australian Government's official register of education providers approved to teach international students on student visas. Only CRICOS-registered institutions can legally enrol international students in Australia, and you need a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered provider to apply for a Subclass 500 student visa. Always verify that your chosen institution and course are CRICOS-registered before applying.
What is the difference between GSR and GTE for Australian student visas?
The Genuine Student Requirement (GSR) replaced the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion in March 2024. While the GTE focused on whether applicants intended to stay temporarily in Australia, the GSR assesses whether applicants are genuine students seeking a quality educational outcome. The GSR considers your educational background, the relevance of your chosen course to your future career, your financial capacity, English proficiency, and immigration history. If you are applying for a student visa now, the GSR applies to your application.
What English language tests are accepted for Australian student visas?
The Australian Department of Home Affairs and Australian universities accept several English language proficiency tests including IELTS Academic, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge C1 Advanced, and the Occupational English Test (OET) for health professionals. Each university sets its own minimum score requirements, which vary by course and level of study. IELTS and PTE Academic are the most commonly used tests for Australian student visa applications.
Is OSHC mandatory for all international students in Australia?
Yes, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is a mandatory requirement for all international students studying in Australia on a Subclass 500 student visa. You must maintain OSHC for the entire duration of your visa, from arrival to visa expiry. The Department of Home Affairs will not grant your student visa without evidence of adequate OSHC. Approved OSHC providers include Medibank, Bupa, Allianz Care, ahm, and nib.
What are Visa Conditions 8105 and 8202?
Visa Condition 8105 limits how much you can work while studying: up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic terms, with unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Visa Condition 8202 requires you to maintain satisfactory attendance and academic progress in your enrolled course. Breaching either condition can lead to visa cancellation, so it is important to understand and comply with both conditions throughout your studies in Australia.
What is the Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate Visa?
The Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate Visa allows international students who have recently graduated from an Australian institution to live and work in Australia temporarily. The Post-Study Work stream grants 2 years for bachelor's degree holders, 3 years for master's degree holders, and 4 years for doctoral graduates. Graduates from regional institutions may receive additional time. This visa provides valuable post-study work experience that can lead to further migration pathways.
Need Help Understanding the Application Process?
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