Flags are risk indicators — areas where applications commonly have gaps or inconsistencies. Each flag shows what to look for, why it matters, and how to address it. They are not predictions of outcome.
▲Risk flag
English test score below typical threshold for course type
The Migration Regulations require English proficiency suited to your enrolled course. Minimum scores are set by instrument (LIN 19/051) and vary by provider type and course level. Submitting a score below the required threshold will result in the application being refused.
What to do
1Check the exact minimum score for your course provider type (ELICOS, higher ed, VET, school)
2Retake the English test if your score is below the required minimum
3Ensure your test result is not more than 3 years old at the time of decision
4Confirm if an exemption applies (e.g., prior study in an approved English-speaking country)
Evidence examples
📄IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1/C2, or OET test report form
📄Evidence of prior study in an approved English-speaking country (transcripts + enrolment confirmation)
📄Confirmation of exemption from education provider if applicable
▲Risk flag
English test score below typical threshold for course type
Minimum English scores are set by LIN 19/051 and vary by provider type and course level. Submitting a score below the required threshold will result in the application being refused. Sub-band scores below the minimum are also grounds for refusal even if the overall score passes.
What to do
1Check the exact minimum score for your course provider type (ELICOS, higher ed, VET, school)
2Retake the English test if your score is below the required minimum
3Ensure your test result is not more than 3 years old at the time of decision
4Confirm if an exemption applies (e.g., prior study in an approved English-speaking country)
Evidence examples
📄IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1/C2, or OET test report form
📄Evidence of prior study in an approved English-speaking country (transcripts + enrolment confirmation)
📄Confirmation of exemption from education provider if applicable
◆Flag
Weak ties to home country
Decision makers assess genuine student intention by weighing circumstances including ties to home country (property, family, employment prospects). Weak or unexplained ties may indicate the applicant does not intend to return, which is a risk indicator under the Genuine Student requirement (clause 500.212).
What to do
1Document family members, assets, or employment prospects in home country
2Explain how the study aligns with your career goals at home
3Provide a personal statement addressing your intention to return
4Gather any supporting evidence: property, family responsibilities, business interests
Evidence examples
📄Bank statements or property ownership documents in home country
📄Employer letter from home country confirming re-employment post-study
📄Career plan showing connection between course and home-country goals
◆Flag
Course inconsistent with prior study or career path
The Genuine Student test includes an assessment of whether the course is consistent with your stated career goals. A mismatch between your academic background, work experience, and enrolled course is a known risk indicator.
What to do
1Write a clear course choice statement explaining why this course suits your goals
2Highlight any transferable skills or prior learning connecting past and present study
3Obtain a letter from your education provider if course counselling was involved
4If changing fields, document your career pivoting rationale clearly
Evidence examples
📄Personal statement linking course to career plan
📄Letter from current or prospective employer in target field
📄Transcript or certificate showing relevant prior knowledge
📄Skills assessment or industry report supporting field transition
◆Flag
Weak ties to home country
Decision makers assess genuine student intention by weighing circumstances including ties to home country (property, family, employment prospects). Weak or unexplained ties may indicate the applicant does not intend to return, which is a risk indicator under clause 500.212.
What to do
1Document family members, assets, or employment prospects in home country
2Explain how the study aligns with your career goals at home
3Provide a personal statement addressing your intention to return
4Gather any supporting evidence: property, family responsibilities, business interests
Evidence examples
📄Bank statements or property ownership documents in home country
📄Employer letter from home country confirming re-employment post-study
📄Career plan showing connection between course and home-country goals
◆Flag
Course inconsistent with prior study or career path
The Genuine Student test includes an assessment of whether the course is consistent with the applicant's stated career goals. A mismatch between academic background, work experience, and enrolled course is a known risk indicator.
What to do
1Write a clear course choice statement explaining why this course suits your goals
2Highlight any transferable skills or prior learning connecting past and present study
3Obtain a letter from your education provider if course counselling was involved
4If changing fields, document your career pivoting rationale clearly
Evidence examples
📄Personal statement linking course to career plan
📄Letter from current or prospective employer in target field
📄Transcript or certificate showing relevant prior knowledge
📄Skills assessment or industry report supporting field transition
Next actions
Review each flag and check whether it applies to your circumstances
Work through the suggested actions for any applicable flags
