Student Visa

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows international students to study full-time at an accredited educational institution in Australia. It provides an opportunity to gain high-quality education while living and exploring Australia.

Key Details About the Student Visa (Subclass 500)

Eligibility Requirements

1. Enrollment in a Course

   • Must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered course.
   • Acceptable courses include English language programs, vocational education and training (VET), higher education (bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral programs), and more.

2. Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement

   • Applicants must demonstrate a genuine intention to stay in Australia temporarily for education purposes.
   • Considerations include previous immigration history, ties to the home country, and economic circumstances.

3. English Language Proficiency

   • Proof of English proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or others (varies by course level and institution).

4. Financial Requirements

   • Evidence of sufficient funds to cover:
     • Tuition fees.
     • Living expenses (AUD 24,505 per year for the main applicant).
     • Travel costs.

5. Health and Character Requirements

   • Must undergo a medical examination and provide police clearance certificates.

6. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

   • Maintain valid OSHC for the duration of your stay in Australia.

Application Process

1. Apply to a Course

   • Receive an offer letter and obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian institution.

2. Gather Required Documents

   • Passport.
   • Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
   • Proof of financial capacity.
   • English test results.
   • OSHC certificate.
   • GTE statement.

3. Lodge the Application

   • Submit the visa application online via ImmiAccount.

4. Attend Biometrics and Health Examination

   • Provide biometrics and undergo a health check if required.

5. Wait for Decision

   • Visa processing times vary but generally take 2 to 6 weeks.

Duration and Conditions

• The visa duration is aligned with the length of the course, with an additional buffer period after the course ends (1-3 months).
• Work rights:
  • Permits up to 48 hours per fortnight of part-time work during the study term.
  • Unlimited work hours during study breaks.

Costs

• Visa application fee: Starting from AUD 710.
• Additional fees for dependents, health checks, and biometrics may apply.

Benefits

• Study Opportunities: Access to world-class education across various fields.
• Work Rights: Part-time work to support living expenses.
• Family Inclusion: Include dependents (partner and children) in the visa application.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Further studies, post-graduate work visas, or skilled migration opportunities can lead to PR.

Post-Study Options

1. Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

   • For students who have completed eligible courses in Australia.
   • Valid for 2 to 4 years, depending on the level of qualification.

2. Skilled Migration Pathways

   • Points-based visas like subclass 189, 190, or 491 after gaining Australian qualifications.