Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500) Guide: Step by Step
Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500) Guide: Step by Step
What is the Student Visa (subclass 500)?
International students in Australia study on the Student Visa (subclass 500). It allows you to study full-time at a registered institution, work part-time, and travel in and out of the country while your course is active.
How the application works
- Get accepted and receive your CoE. After you accept your offer and pay any deposit, your institution issues a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) — the document you need to apply for the visa.
- Apply online via ImmiAccount. Create an ImmiAccount, complete the application, pay the fee, and upload evidence.
- Meet the Genuine Student (GS) requirement. Answer questions (in the application) about your study intentions, your circumstances, and why Australia. This replaced the old GTE statement.
- Show English proficiency. Usually IELTS 5.5–6.5 (or equivalent) depending on your course.
- Show you can cover costs. Provide evidence of funds for first-year tuition, travel, and living costs.
- Arrange OSHC. Overseas Student Health Cover is mandatory for the entire visa period. Your institution can help you buy it.
Fees
- Visa application fee: AUD 1,600 (≈ US$1,070) for most applicants.
- OSHC: roughly AUD 55–80/month for a standard policy.
- The CoE itself usually involves an institution deposit or first-semester payment.
Processing time
- Most applications are decided in 4–8 weeks, though simple cases can clear faster and peak seasons (Dec–Feb) run longer.
Financial requirements
From 2025, the evidence-of-funds benchmark for a single student is around AUD 29,710 per year for living costs (cheaper outside the main cities), plus first-year tuition and airfare. Bank statements, scholarships, or sponsor letters all work.
Can you work?
Yes. Subclass 500 holders can work up to 48 hours a fortnight while the course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. You can work as soon as your course starts.
After graduation
The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) lets graduates live and work in Australia for 2–4 years (longer for some regional or skills-shortage routes). Many students use it to gain professional experience and a pathway to permanent residence.
