The study requirements for Temporary Graduate visas (TGV) have changed for Graduate Certificate and Graduate Diploma holders.
These changes came into effect on 14 December 2024 – here’s what you need to know.
TGV streams and study requirements
The Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) includes three streams:
- Post-Vocational Education Work (PVEW)
- Post-Higher Education Work (PHEW)
- Second Post-Higher Education Work
The stream you apply for depends on your qualification:
- PVEW Stream: For Associate Degrees, Diplomas, or trade qualifications.
- PHEW Stream: For Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degrees.
- Graduate Certificates and Diplomas: See updated requirements below.
Graduate Certificates
Graduate Certificates no longer meet the study requirements for a Temporary Graduate visa. While you can still complete a Graduate Certificate, it cannot be used as an eligible qualification to apply for a TGV.
To qualify for a TGV, you must complete an eligible qualification (e.g., Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degree) within six months before lodging your application. A Graduate Certificate may be undertaken while holding a TGV.
Graduate Diplomas
A Graduate Diploma can qualify for the PHEW stream if:
- It follows an Australian Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degree, and
- It is related to the field of study of that degree.
Additionally, the Graduate Diploma must be completed in the same or the next academic year as your previous degree. These requirements ensure that Graduate Diplomas enhance your specialised skills and career prospects.
Graduate Diplomas in a different field
You may study a Graduate Diploma in an unrelated field, but it will not qualify for a TGV.
To apply for a TGV, your eligible qualification must have been completed within six months of lodging your application. A Graduate Diploma can also be completed while holding a TGV.
Transition to new arrangements
- Graduates who applied for a TGV using a Graduate Diploma before this date will be assessed under the previous regulations.
- Graduate Certificate holders affected by these changes will be contacted by the Department of Home Affairs if needed.
