Australia Student Visa 2026: Ministerial Direction 115 Explained – New Rules, Priorities & What It Means for You
Introduction
As students worldwide prepare for the 2026 intake, the Australian Government has introduced one of the most important policy updates in recent years – Ministerial Direction 115 (MD 115).
Replacing the earlier Direction 111from 14 November 2025, this new rule changes how offshore Student Visa (Subclass 500) applications are assessed and prioritised.
“Throughout 2025 we have seen the positive effect of a managed-growth approach across the sector – returning student numbers to a more sustainable level. Growth has moderated, with student-visa lodgements down 26 per cent and commencements down 16 per cent on last year.” – The Hon Julian Hill, Assistant Minister for International Education (Ministerial announcement, Nov 2025)
This new framework ensures that for the 2026 student-visa intake, visa-processing resources are used efficiently, regional institutions receive fair priority, and integrity remains central to Australia’s international-education system.
At Aussizz Group, we simplify every step of the journey – from course selection and Subclass 500 visa lodgement to OSHC, post-study work visas, and PR pathways – helping students start their 2026 studies with confidence.
Why Was Direction 115 Introduced?
Australia’s international-education sector continues to grow, but that growth needs to be balanced with quality and sustainability.
Direction 115, effective 14 November 2025, refines the earlier policy by introducing a transparent, data-driven model that links visa-processing speed to provider performance.
The goals are:
Promote balanced student distribution across regions and providers.
Reward compliant, responsible institutions with faster visa outcomes.
Under Direction 115, offshore student-visa applications will now be processed according to a three-tier “traffic-light” system, based on each provider’s National Overseas Student Capacity (NOSC) – how close they are to their approved allocation.
Zone
Provider Capacity
Priority Category
Processing Impact
Green Zone
Below 80 % of allocation
Priority 1
Fastest processing – applications handled first.
Amber Zone
80–115 % of allocation
Priority 2
Standard processing – moderate waiting times.
Red Zone
Above 115 % of allocation
Priority 3
Slower processing – extended timelines likely.
Even within these categories, integrity checks override priority. If the Department of Home Affairs identifies inconsistencies in financials or weak GS evidence, processing can still be delayed.
Direction 111 vs Direction 115 – What Changed?
The table below outlines how Direction 115 differs from Direction 111. While both aim to streamline offshore student-visa processing, the new Direction adds structure, clarity, and incentives for integrity.
Aspect
Direction 111 (Old)
Direction 115 (New – Effective 14 Nov 2025)
Purpose
Prioritised offshore student-visa processing
Balances student distribution, strengthens integrity and regional focus
Processing Model
Basic two-tier structure
Detailed three-tier model with measurable thresholds
Threshold System
Based only on indicative allocations
Two clear limits: 80 % (“prioritisation”) and 115 % (“upper limit”) of each provider’s student capacity
Integrity matters: A strong GS statement and authentic financials are essential.
Predictable timelines: Processing now reflects each provider’s capacity level.
At Aussizz Group, our experts help you choose the right provider, craft a compelling GS statement, and prepare a complete visa application under the new rules.
Providers can track their NOSC and manage admissions strategically.
Reward for Compliance
Integrity and strong governance lead to faster visa processing for students.
Support for Small VET Providers
Shared threshold system gives equal access to smaller institutions.
Public Provider Exemptions
Public providers expanding PBSA housing or TNE delivery may qualify for NOSC exemptions.
Balanced Sector Growth
Encourages diversification across regions, industries, and qualification levels.
How Students Can Prepare for the 2026 Visa Intake?
If you’re planning to study in Australia for the 2026 intake, here’s how to stay ahead:
Choose wisely: Ask your provider about their current capacity – aim for the green zone (below 80%).
Write a strong GS statement: Explain your background, study goals, and career intent clearly.
Be honest and complete: Submit authentic academic and financial documents.
Apply early: Processing slows as providers approach 115% capacity.
Get professional guidance: Aussizz Group’s registered migration agents ensure your application meets DHA standards and Direction 115 priorities.
Real-World Examples: How Direction 115 Affects Students
Here’s how the new visa-priority system might play out for three students from different backgrounds:
Student Case
Provider Status
Priority Level
Outcome
Meera (India)
Studying at a regional TAFE using only 60 % of its capacity
Priority 1
Meera’s visa is processed first – quick approval and smooth entry.
David (Philippines)
Enrolled at a city university operating at 95 % capacity
Priority 2
Standard processing – visa granted after regular assessment time.
Rohan (Nepal)
Applied to a private college already 120 % full
Priority 3
Slower processing – application delayed until capacity balances.
Insight: Students applying through providers in the green zone often see faster approvals. Always check your provider’s enrolment status and apply early.
How Aussizz Group Supports Your Entire Journey?
At Aussizz Group, we do more than file your student visa – we help you design a long-term roadmap for study, work, and PR in Australia.
Our services include:
Course & Provider Selection – Programs aligned with your career and migration goals.
Visa Lodgement & GS Statement Support – Complete, compliant applications under MD 115.
OSHC & Accommodation Assistance – Affordable health cover and reliable housing options.
Post-Study Work & PR Pathways – Guidance on 485 visa, Professional Year and skilled migration.
Migration Services – Expert agents to help you plan your residency pathway in Australia.
With Aussizz Group, you have one trusted partner for your entire education and migration journey.
Conclusion – A Fairer, Smarter Future for International Students
Ministerial Direction 115 represents a shift toward a more transparent and sustainable visa-processing system for the 2026 student-visa intake. By linking visa speed to provider performance and integrity, the Government ensures genuine students receive fair, timely outcomes.
At Aussizz Group, we stay ahead of every policy change so you can focus on achieving your study and migration goals with confidence.
It’s a government policy effective 14 Nov 2025 that determines how offshore Student Visa (Subclass 500) applications are prioritised, based on provider capacity and compliance.
Q2. Does Direction 115 affect onshore students?
No. It applies only to offshore applicants lodging from outside Australia.
Q3. What happens if my provider exceeds 115 % of its allocation?
Your visa may fall under Priority 3, meaning longer processing times.
Q4. Do regional universities and TAFEs get faster processing?
Yes. They are prioritised under the new Direction to support regional development and skill needs.
Q5. Are small VET providers included?
Yes. Those with ≤ 100 commencements are grouped collectively, ensuring equal access to Priority 1 processing.
Q6. What are NOSC exemptions?
Public providers expanding student housing (PBSA), Transnational Education (TNE), or Southeast Asia market initiatives may receive temporary capacity exemptions.
Q7. How can I improve my visa success under MD 115?
Apply early, choose a provider in the green zone, and prepare a strong, well-documented GS statement. Our counsellors can help you at every stage.
Q8. How does Aussizz Group help beyond visas?
We assist with OSHC, Professional Year, 485 visa, PR pathways, and ongoing migration services — helping you settle successfully in Australia.
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