Your Guide to the Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500): Everything You Need to Know
If you’re hoping to study in Australia as a full-time student, you’ll need to apply for a Student Visa (subclass 500). This visa lets you live and study in Australia for the length of your course — up to five years, depending on your program. Whether you’re heading to a world-class university, studying English, or pursuing a shorter vocational course, Australia offers incredible opportunities.
Now, while the process of applying for a Student Visa may seem a little overwhelming at first, don’t worry! As long as you stay organised and keep track of all the requirements, you’ll be just fine. We’ve broken down everything you need to know to help make the application process easier.
What student visas are available to international students?
For international students, the Student Visa (subclass 500) is the only visa you need to study in Australia. This applies no matter what kind of course you want to take — whether you’re planning to study an undergraduate degree, a postgraduate program like a Master’s or PhD, an English language course, or a Vocational Education and Training (VET) program. No matter the path, the Student Visa (Subclass 500) is the way to go.
What do I need to know about a Student Visa (subclass 500)?
A Student Visa (subclass 500) allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course. Depending on how long your course is, the visa can be granted for up to five years.
After the visa expires, if you want to continue your studies, you’ll need to apply for a new visa or seek an extension from the Australian government. It’s always a good idea to apply as early as possible, as this gives you plenty of time to get all your documents in order and avoid any last-minute stress. We recommend starting to explore your course options about four to five months before your course starts.
How much will it cost?
The application fee for the subclass 500 visa is AUD$1,600, although there could be some additional costs. For example, you may need to pay for police and health checks. Remember, this fee only covers your visa application - it doesn’t include tuition fees or living expenses.
Additionally, you’ll need to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), which is health insurance required for all international students. The cost of OSHC depends on the level of cover you choose, but a basic one-year plan typically starts around AUD$580.
To learn more about OSHC and why it’s necessary, check out more information here.
What are the eligibility requirements?
To apply for the Student Visa, you’ll need to meet all of the eligibility requirements. These may feel like a lot but if you stay organised and follow the steps carefully, you’ll get through them in no time. The main eligibility requirements are:
Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) — You must have a CoE, which is a document from your Australian institution confirming your acceptance into an approved course. This is a must-have for your visa application.
Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) — This is a statement where you explain that you plan to study in Australia temporarily and intend to return to your home country after tour studies. It’s essentially a declaration to assure the Australian government your genuine intent to study.
English proficiency — Depending on your country and the course you’re applying for, you may need to demonstrate your English skills through tests like IELTS, TOEFLE, or PTE. Check the specific requirements for your course to make sure you’re ready.
Financial stability — You’ll need to show you have enough funds to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs during your time in Australia. This often includes proof of your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
Health and Character requirements — You must meet certain health standards, and in some cases, you may also need to provide a police clearance certificate to demonstrate good character.
How to apply for a student visa in Australia? Step-by-step guide
Here’s a comprehensive guide you should know about how to apply for an Australian student visa.
Step 1: Apply to an Australian school and obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
Before you can apply for your student visa, you must first be accepted into an Australian school. Once you’ve received an offer letter, you’ll need to accept the offer in writing and pay any required deposits.
After that, the school will issue your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), which you’ll need to start your visa application.
If you’re planning to study multiple courses (for example, a preparatory English course before starting your main degree), you’ll need a CoE for each course.
Step 2: Create an ImmiAccount
To start your visa application, go to the Australian immigration website and create an ImmiAccount
You’ll enter your details, choose a password, and accept the terms and conditions. This account will be used for all your communications about the visa.
Step 3: Gather the required documents
Before applying, make sure you have all the necessary documents in digital format. Here’s a checklist to help:
CoE (Confirmation of Enrolment) from your school
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
A valid passport
Proof of your temporary stay intent (such as proof of employment or a letter from a home institution)
Additional documents could include:
Birth certificate
Bank statements or proof of financial ability
Academic transcripts or English test scores (like IELTS)
Proof of employment (if applicable)
Criminal record check (if applicable)
Remember, if any documents are in a language other than English, you’ll need to have them translated by a certified translator.
Step 4: Complete the Online Australia Student Visa application
Log in to your ImmiAccount and apply for a student visa Australia Subclass 500
You can apply for an Australia student visa up to 124 days before your course start date (As per the CoE).
Step 5: Pay the Student Visa and get a TRN Number
After completing the Australian student visa application, you need to pay the Student Visa cost, which is AUD$1,600
You will receive a Transaction Reference Number (TRN) upon payment, which is necessary for tracking your application status.
Step 6: Complete Health Checkups and Interviews (if required)
Depending on your location and study plans, you may need a health checkup and/or visa interview
Do not undergo a health checkup until after completing the Australian student visa application, as the TRN is required, and you’ll receive specific instructions
Step 7: Wait for your student visa decision
Processing times vary, but once complete, decisions typically arrive within a few weeks
You can track your application using the TRN in your ImmiAccount
Once your visa is granted, you’ll receive an email notification. Your visa is electronic though you may print the grant letter as proof.
Visa conditions and work rights
Once your Student Visa is granted, there are a few important conditions to remember:
Maintain your enrolment — You must stay enrolled in your course and meet progress requirements.
Work rights — You can work up to 48 hours/fortnight while your course is in session, and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks
Health insurance — Having OSHC for the entire duration of your stay is mandatory
Notify and address changes — If you change your address, you need to inform your education provider within seven days.
How can I extend my student visa?
If your course duration extends or you need more time to complete your studies, you will need to apply for a visa extension. Here’s what to do:
Request a new CoE — Contact your education provider to extend your enrolment and issue a new CoE
Renew OSHC — Your heath cover should match the new visa period
Apply for an extension online — Use your ImmiAccount to lodge a new visa application before your current visa expires
Check eligibility for Bridging Visa A — This allows you to stay legally while your new visa is being processed.
Changing courses
For some reason or the other — if you decide to switch to a different field of study in Australia, here’s how the process works:
First, you need to ensure you meet their course withdrawal requirements
After the withdrawal, you need to choose a new course and get a CoE
If the new course is at the same academic level or higher, your current visa will remain valid
If switching to a lower-level course (e.g., Bachelor’s to Diploma), you must notify the Department of Home Affairs, as it may affect your visa status.
Changing universities or education providers
If you wish to transfer to a new university or provider, here’s how the process works:
You must need to complete study for at least six months with your original provider (for degree courses)
If switching before six months, you need permission from your current provider
Then you need to apply to the new provider and get a CoE
Log into your ImmiAccount and update your visa details with the new CoE
Final thoughts
Navigating the student visa application process is a crucial step in your journey to study in Australia, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little preparation and organisation, you’ll be well on your way. At EDUFIRST Visa Consultancy, we specialise in guiding students through the visa process. We offer personalised advice to help you select the right course, complete your visa application, and ensure a smooth transition into life in Australia.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for support throughout the application process. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to get started? Book a free consultation today and take the first step towards your future in Australia!