Australian Government Released New Student Visa Processing Framework Under MD115 for 2026
The Australian Government announced major update to the Student Visa processing system by replacing the previous MD111 with MD115. This new rules for the Australian Student Visa took effect on 14 November 2025, setting the priority for international Student Visa applications in the 2026 program year.
The change comes as part of the Australian Government’s commitment to strengthening the integrity and stability of the Australian international education sector while ensuring the visa processing aligns with national planning levels.
What changed under the MD115
Under the MD115, the Australian Government will maintain the National Planning Level (NPL) system for the Australian Student Visa. This system determines how quickly offshore Student Visa applications are processed based on the number of student places each education provider has filled.
1. National Planning Level for Australian Student Visa in 2026: 295,000 Places
The Australian Government has set the NPL at 295,000 for the Australian Student Visa. The number shows an increase of 25,000 places compared to last year. This increase shows Australia’s intention to welcome more international students while managing migration levels responsibly.
2. Student Visa Requirements Stay the Same
The MD115 doesn’t introduce new requirements for the Australian Student Visa applicants. All current eligibility criterias, financial evidence guidelines, English requirements, and GTE criteria remains unchanged.
Who is affected by this new rules for Australian Student Visa (MD115)?
Note that the NPL system only applies to offshore Student Visa applications. If you’re submitting the application onshore, your application won’t be affected by the NPL system.
Here are the details of how the MD115 applies:
1. If you applied before 14 November 2025
Your application will continue to be assessed under the previous rules, which is MD111, even if the decision is made in 2026.
2. If you applied on or after 14 November 2025
Your application will be prioritised and processed under the new rules, which is MD115.
The onshore Student Visa applications are not affected by the NPL system and will continue to be processed normally.
Find out: Best Diploma Course for PR in Australia
What does it mean for international students?
The conclusion is that the processing times will depend on your education provider.
Just like in 2025, how quick your visa is being processed in 2026 will depend on:
- How many students places your institution has filled
- How your education provider ranks in the prioritisation system
- The purpose of this framework is to provide a more predictable system for managing international student flows.
Learn more: How to Apply for an Australia Student Visa
How to Avoid Delays in Your Student Visa Application
To ensure a smooth and timely processing, the Department of Home Affairs continuously advise to:
1. Lodge your application early
The demand for Australian Student Visa is high, especially with the increased NPL. Submitting your application early will give you the best chance of getting your visa on time.
2. Submit a complete application
Delays and refusals in processing the Australian Student Visa commonly occur due to:
- Missing documents
- Incorrect information
- No explanation for inconsistent details
Ensure all required documents are included at the time of visa lodgment, including the financial evidence, English test results, COE, identity documents, and any additional information requested.
3. Meet all the requirements
Even with the new priority framework, you must still satisfy all requirements for approval.
The introduction of MD115 as the new rules for Australian Student Visa continues to support transparency, planning, and integrity within the international education sector.
If you’re preparing to apply for an offshore Student Visa in 2026, now is the best time to begin gathering your documents and planning ahead. Book a consultation with our Registered Migration Agent today to start the process:
We’re here to assist you.
Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need assistance in understanding the new rules for Australian Student Visa. Our visa specialists at ONEderland Consulting will help you assess your visa options. We have a 98% success rate and are one of the most highly recommended migration agents in Australia. Read our 4.9* score customer reviews.
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Take the first step and contact us. Our team members are honest, accountable and professional. Contact us via email at visa@onederland.com.au, by phone at 1300 827 159, or through WhatsApp at +61494372414. Alternatively, you can book your consultation online, and it is backed by our 100% Money-Back Guarantee Program.
