Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500): Requirements, Costs & Application Guide

Studying in Australia is a dream for many international students. With world-class universities, diverse culture, and excellent career opportunities, Australia continues to be one of the top study destinations in the world. To make this dream a reality, you need a Student Visa (Subclass 500).

In this guide, we’ll explain the requirements, benefits, application process, cost, and processing time for the Australian Student Visa, so you and your family are well-prepared.

What is the Student Visa (Subclass 500)?

The Student Visa Subclass 500 allows international students to:

• Study full-time at a registered Australian institution (university, TAFE, or school)

• Stay in Australia for the duration of their course (up to 5 years)

• Work part-time (currently up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods)

• Include eligible family members on the same visa

• Access temporary graduate pathways after completion of studies

This visa is essential for anyone planning to pursue education in Australia.

Who Can Apply for a Student Visa?

To be eligible for the Subclass 500 Student Visa, you must:

1. Be enrolled in a full-time course registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).

2. Provide a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your education provider.

3. Meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements – showing you intend to study and return home unless eligible for another visa.

4. Show financial capacity – evidence you can pay tuition fees, travel, and living expenses.

5. Have English language proficiency – IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL results if required.

6. Meet health and character requirements – health check and police certificates.

7. Hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay.

Cost of a Student Visa in Australia

• The current base application fee is AUD $2000 (subject to change).

• Additional fees apply for dependents included in the application.

• Other costs: medical exams, police checks, English tests, and document preparation.

Processing Time for Student Visas

Processing times can vary depending on:

• Your country of origin

• Type of course and education provider

• Completeness of your documents

• Whether further information is requested

As a guide, applications may take 1 to 4 months. Applying early and providing accurate documents reduces delays.

Benefits of the Australian Student Visa

• Study in Australia’s top universities and colleges

• Work while studying to gain experience and support living costs

• Bring family members (partner and dependent children)

• Access post-study work opportunities through the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

• Pathway towards permanent residency for eligible graduates

How to Apply for a Student Visa (Step-by-Step)

1. Choose your course and institution (must be CRICOS registered).

2. Apply and receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

3. Prepare required documents: passport, OSHC, GTE statement, financial evidence, English test results, health and character checks.

4. Submit your visa application online via the Department of Home Affairs portal.

5. Pay the visa fee and upload all supporting evidence.

6. Await outcome – you may be asked to provide additional documents.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incomplete or inconsistent documents

• Failing to provide a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement

• Insufficient financial evidence

• Missing health checks or police certificates

FAQs About the Student Visa

1. Can I work on a Student Visa in Australia?
Yes, up to 48 hours per fortnight during study terms and unlimited hours during semester break.

2. Can I bring my family?
Yes, your partner and dependent children can be included in your application.

3. What happens after I graduate?
You may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) to work in Australia after completing your course. This is subject to eligibility criteria.

4. Can I apply for permanent residency?
Yes. However, it depends on the immigration rules, after studying, you may transition to skilled visas, employer-sponsored visas, or other permanent pathways if eligible.

Why Use a Migration Agent for a Student Visa?

While applying for a Student Visa Subclass 500 can be done independently, many students face refusals due to weak evidence, incorrect GTE statements, or missing documents. A MARA-registered migration agent can:

• Guide you to draft a compliant GTE statement

• Check your documents against visa requirements

• Lodge your application correctly and efficiently

• Guide you on post-study visa options

The Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) is the gateway to studying, living, and working in Australia. With the right preparation, strong evidence, and expert support, you can secure your place at a leading Australian institution and start building your future here.

If you’re ready to begin your Student Visa journey, our Melbourne-based migration agency is here to assist you at every step. Contact us today to get started.

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500/genuine-student-requirement

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500