Everything you need to know about the Student Visa (Subclass 500) application process and requirements
View Requirements Get Visa HelpKey criteria you must meet to be eligible for an Australian student visa
Step-by-step guide to applying for your Australian student visa
Select a CRICOS-registered course at an Australian education provider that matches your academic background and career goals.
After accepting your offer and paying the required deposit, your institution will issue a CoE which is essential for your visa application.
Gather all required documents including financial proofs, English test results, health insurance, passport, and academic transcripts.
Register on the Australian Government's immigration website to begin your online application.
Fill out the Student Visa (Subclass 500) form carefully, attaching all required documents.
The current visa application charge is approximately $710 AUD (subject to change).
Attend a biometrics appointment if required and complete any necessary health examinations.
Processing times vary from 4 weeks to 3 months depending on your country of origin and individual circumstances.
Passport (valid for at least 6 months), birth certificate, national ID card
Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) for all intended courses
Bank statements, loan approval letters, or sponsor documents showing sufficient funds
Test results from IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic or Cambridge English
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) policy for entire visa duration
Genuine Temporary Entrant statement explaining your study motivations
Certified copies of transcripts, diplomas, and other qualifications
Police clearance certificates from all countries lived in for 12+ months
Understand your working rights and visa conditions as an international student
Common questions about Australian student visas answered
Processing times vary depending on your country of origin and individual circumstances. Generally, it takes between 4 weeks to 3 months. Some applications from low-risk countries may be processed in as little as 2 weeks, while others may take longer if additional documentation or verification is required.
Yes, you can include family members (spouse/de facto partner and dependent children) in your student visa application. You'll need to show evidence of your relationship and additional funds to support them (approximately $8,574 AUD per year for a partner, $3,670 AUD per year for your first child, and $2,745 AUD for each additional child). Family members may have limited work rights depending on your course level.
If your visa application is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for refusal. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to: 1) Reapply with additional documentation addressing the refusal reasons, 2) Appeal the decision through the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT), or 3) Explore alternative visa options. The application fee is generally not refunded for refused applications.
Yes, you can apply for a new student visa if you need more time to complete your studies. You'll need a new CoE showing your revised course end date and meet all visa requirements again. Common reasons for extension include changing courses, failing subjects, or taking approved leave. Apply before your current visa expires to maintain lawful status.
After completing your studies, you may be eligible for: 1) Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) for post-study work, 2) Skilled migration visas if you qualify, 3) Employer sponsorship visas, 4) Further study on a new student visa, or 5) Return home. The best pathway depends on your qualifications, skills, work experience, and Australia's migration policies at the time.
Our registered migration agents can guide you through the entire process, ensuring your application has the best chance of success.
Book Free Consultation Contact Our Experts