The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement is an integrity assessment that evaluates a person’s intention to enter and stay in Australia temporarily to gain a quality education. It’s a major criterion for receiving a student visa (Subclass 500) in the country, so aspiring learners must know how to ace it. The GTE is primarily a declaration made by the student—a statement that includes information on their circumstances in their home country, potential circumstances in Australia, educational background, immigration history, and other matters related to their stay. After submitting a GTE statement, along with the required documents (and other relevant paperwork that could back up the details written in the statement), prospective students must attend a GTE interview to further verify their personal statement and documentation.
The GTE interview
The GTE interview is a face-to-face interview between a student visa applicant and a visa officer. It’s usually held at an Australian Visa Application Centre (AVAC) or by video conference call.
During a GTE interview, an immigration official will ask the applicant questions about the details they’ve declared in their GTE statement. The structure of the interview may differ based on each officer’s approach and the unique circumstances of the interviewee, but generally, the protocol starts with a brief introduction and a confirmation of personal information. Then, the interview progresses and touches on the following aspects of the student’s application:
- academic background
- study plans
- financial situation
- GTE statement
- English language proficiency.
GTE interview questions
Here are some of the most common questions asked during a GTE interview:
- What is the purpose of your stay in Australia?
- Have you visited Australia before?
- Why did you choose Australia for further studies?
- How did you find your chosen institution and what are your reasons for applying to it and your program?
- How will your chosen program help you in your career?
- How will you finance your study and residence in Australia? Who is sponsoring you?
- What are your plans after completing your program in Australia?
- What do you intend to do during your school’s semestral breaks?
- How can you ensure that you will return to your country after completing your studies?
- What will you do if your visa application gets rejected?
Preparing for the GTE interview
To prepare for the GTE interview, students must become very familiar with their GTE statement, ensuring that their intentions align perfectly with what they’ve declared. The purpose of the GTE requirement is to ensure that visa applicants are entering and staying in Australia for the sole purpose of gaining education. As long as aspiring students are truthful and pure in their intent, they should have no problem completing the requirement.
It’s also good to brush up on one’s language competency and communication abilities. During the interview, students should be able to express themselves clearly and confidently in English.
To increase the chances of passing one’s GTE interview, it could help to seek expert assistance. Immigration agencies may be able to assist with preparing a solid GTE statement and practising for the interview.
Tips to pass the GTE interview
Here are some tips to help students pass the GTE interview and take a step closer to obtaining an Australian study visa and studying in the country.
Understand one’s GTE statement
The GTE interview is primarily based on one’s GTE statement, so it’s crucial that applicants remember the details they’ve given and can explain them in depth when asked.
Learn about the institution and program
Students should be ready to talk about their chosen institution and program—particularly why they chose it and the value it brings to their future careers. It’s also good to know some key information, such as details on fees, student culture, schedules, etc.
Study Australian culture
Having a deep understanding of Australian culture, particularly those related to education, will show one’s genuine desire to experience what the country has to offer. It also exhibits one’s readiness to adjust to the local way of life.
Practise the interview
Given the list of commonly asked questions above, students can practise how they’ll perform during the interview. Applicants shouldn’t necessarily have answers prepared (it might come out sounding scripted!) but it’s good to have an idea of what to say when prompted.
Be honest
The most important thing to remember when doing the GTE interview is to be truthful and straightforward. The GTE requirement assesses genuine intent, and this can only be done when it’s grounded in honesty. Students should avoid making excuses and telling lies or else their visa application may be denied.
Help students with the GTE interview
upGrad GSP is dedicated to helping you bring students closer to their dreams of studying abroad. We can help you learn more about the GTE requirement and explore ways on how you can assist interested learners with passing their interview. Reach out to our business development experts to know more!
