NIV visa for PHD students

Assessing ‘Exceptional and outstanding achievement’ and international recognition for PhD graduates

DOHA may be satisfied that a PhD graduate is able to demonstrate exceptional and outstanding achievement on the basis of their completed academic qualification.

DOHA should, however, be satisfied that if the applicant’s qualification was obtained outside Australia from a non-Australian education provider, that it is the equivalent of a PhD obtained in Australia. DOHA will have regard to any relevant guidance from the Department of Education, Skills and Employment – including the Australian Qualifications Framework and Country Education Profiles.

In considering whether the achievements by a PhD graduate are exceptional and outstanding, and are internationally recognised, decision makers should be satisfied:

• their research is of international interest and significance;
• their research would be relevant to an international audience;
• they have presented their research at international forums;
• their research could be used to inform academia, governments and industry abroad;
• their research is relevant to Australian academia, governments and industry in respect to advancing Australia’s international competitiveness; and
• their research highlights the potential for innovation and productivity increases for Australian organisations and industries operating in an international or globalised context.

DOHA may accept that the information and evidence provided by a nominator satisfies the above requirements in relation to ‘exceptional and outstanding achievement’ and international recognition, provided that information is accepted as credible.

Assessing ‘Prominence’ for PhD graduates

PhD graduates must have been conferred their PhD degree in the last 3 years in order to satisfy the requirement to still be prominent in their area of academia and research at the time of application. Appropriate evidence includes a transcript, parchment or graduation certificate clearly indicating the date of conferral of the PhD qualification.

In assessing ‘prominence’ for PhD graduates, DOHA will consider whether the applicant has remained employed or academically engaged in their field (such as through accredited studies or research) if they have graduated 12 months or more before the time of application.

PhD students would be taken to meet the prominence requirement if they have a prior internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement and are studying towards a PhD qualification in the field.