Study in Australia
Study in Australia to access world-class education at prestigious universities, vibrant multicultural cities, and excellent post-study work opportunities. This complete 2025 guide helps international students successfully navigate the Australian Student Visa process with proven strategies for approval.
For English Language proficiency you must read all the requirements from your respective institute , PTE and IELTS are the most famous exams accepted by Australian Universities and DHA.
Student Visa (Subclass 500) Requirements & Complete Guide 2025
Your comprehensive guide to studying in Australia with the Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Studying in Australia offers world-class education, diverse culture, and post-study work opportunities. If you’re planning to study in Australia in 2025, this detailed guide explains everything about the Student Visa (Subclass 500) — from eligibility and documents to financial and Genuine Student requirements.
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1. What Is the Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500)?
The Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows international students to live, study, and work in Australia while completing a full-time course at an approved institution.
It lets you stay in Australia for the duration of your course and gives limited work rights during study sessions and full work rights during holidays.
2. Who Can Apply for the Student Visa (Subclass 500)?
You can apply for this visa if you:
- Intend to study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course.
- Have a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
- Meet English, financial, and health requirements.
- Have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
- Plan to stay in Australia temporarily for study purposes.
3. Key Eligibility Criteria for Studying in Australia
To qualify for a Subclass 500 visa, you must:
Valid Enrollment
Hold a valid CoE from a registered institution.
Health Insurance
Maintain OSHC for yourself and dependents.
Genuine Student
Meet the Genuine Student (GS) requirement.
Financial Capacity
Demonstrate financial capacity for tuition, living, and travel costs.
English Proficiency
Meet English language proficiency standards.
Health & Character
Satisfy health and character checks.
4. Document Checklist for Student Visa Application
When applying online through ImmiAccount, prepare the following documents:
- Passport bio-data page.
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
- Proof of financial capacity (bank statements, loan letters, sponsor evidence).
- Proof of OSHC coverage.
- English language test results (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, etc.).
- Health check results and police clearance (if requested).
- Genuine Student statement or study plan.
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- Employment history and sponsor documents (if applicable).
5. Financial Capacity Requirements for Subclass 500 (Updated 2025)
You must show evidence that you can cover tuition, living, and travel expenses while studying in Australia.
The updated financial capacity amounts from May 2024 are:
| Category | Annual Amount (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Student | $29,710 |
| Partner or Spouse | $10,394 |
| Dependent Child | $4,449 |
| Schooling Costs per Child | $13,502 |
Acceptable Financial Evidence
- Personal or sponsor bank statements.
- Fixed deposits or education loan letters.
- Sponsor income evidence (salary slips, tax returns, business documents).
- Scholarship award letters.
- Sponsor relationship proof (e.g., birth certificate, family registration).
6. Australian Student Visa Fees and Charges
The base application charge for a Student Visa (Subclass 500) is approximately AUD 2,000.
Additional fees apply for dependents and biometrics.
Always check the latest fee using the Visa Pricing Estimator on the Department of Home Affairs website before submitting your application.
7. Genuine Student Requirement (GS) Explained
Introduced in 2024, the Genuine Student (GS) requirement ensures applicants are coming to Australia primarily to study, not for migration purposes.
Your GS statement should clearly explain:
- Your background and education history.
- Why you chose your course and institution.
- How the course supports your career goals.
- Your ties to your home country.
- Your financial situation and long-term plans.
A well-written GS statement strengthens your visa application and shows genuine study intent.
8. Health and Character Requirements
You must meet Australia’s health and character standards to qualify for the student visa.
This includes:
- Completing medical exams and chest X-rays through approved panel doctors.
- Providing police clearance certificates for any country where you’ve lived for 12 months or more.
Failing to meet these requirements can result in delays or visa refusal.
9. Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500)
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Receive Offer and CoE
Apply and receive a Confirmation of Enrolment from a CRICOS-registered institution.
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Arrange OSHC
Purchase Overseas Student Health Cover for the full visa duration.
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Create an ImmiAccount
Register on the Department of Home Affairs website and select “Student Visa (Subclass 500)”.
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Upload Documents
Attach all required documents according to the DHA checklist.
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Pay Visa Fee
Pay the visa application charge online using a valid payment method.
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Complete Biometrics and Medicals
Attend appointments if requested by DHA.
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Wait for Processing
Check your ImmiAccount regularly for updates or requests.
10. Work Rights and Conditions for International Students
- You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session.
- You may work unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
- Work placements required as part of your course do not count towards the limit.
- Postgraduate research students can usually work unlimited hours.
Always check your visa conditions in your grant letter to avoid breaches.
11. Maintaining Your Visa After Arrival in Australia
To keep your visa valid:
- Stay enrolled in a full-time registered course.
- Maintain satisfactory attendance and progress.
- Keep your OSHC active at all times.
- Inform your provider and DHA of any changes (course, address, or contact details).
- Comply with work-hour limits and visa conditions.
12. Tips for a Successful Student Visa Application
- Use the Document Checklist Tool on the DHA website to confirm your requirements.
- Write a genuine and realistic study plan.
- Avoid unexplained large deposits in your financial statements.
- Prepare clear and verifiable supporting documents.
- Apply well before your intended start date to allow for processing.
13. Summary – Study in Australia Visa 2025
The Student Visa (Subclass 500) is your gateway to studying, working, and living in Australia.
To apply successfully, you must:
- Obtain a valid CoE from a CRICOS institution.
- Meet Genuine Student, financial, and English requirements.
- Purchase OSHC and pass health and character checks.
- Submit a well-documented application through ImmiAccount.
With proper preparation and complete documentation, studying in Australia can open exciting opportunities for your education and career.
FAQs About Study in Australia
What are the benefits of studying in Australia?
Australia offers world-class education, internationally recognized qualifications, diverse culture, excellent post-study work opportunities, and a high quality of life. Australian degrees are highly regarded globally.
How much does it cost to study in Australia?
Undergraduate degrees: AUD $20,000 – $45,000 per year
Postgraduate degrees: AUD $22,000 – $50,000 per year
Vocational education: AUD $5,000 – $20,000 per year
Living costs: approximately AUD $21,041 per year
Can I work while studying in Australia?
Yes, international students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks.
What is the Genuine Student requirement?
The Genuine Student requirement ensures applicants are coming to Australia primarily to study. You must demonstrate your study plans align with your educational background, the course will benefit your future career, you have strong ties to your home country, and sufficient financial capacity.
How long does the student visa application take?
Processing times vary:
Higher Education: 2-3 months
Vocational Education: 3-4 months
School Sector: 2-4 months
Postgraduate Research: 3-4 months
Can I bring my family to Australia?
Yes, you can include your spouse or de facto partner and dependent children under 18 years in your student visa application. You must provide evidence of relationship and financial capacity to support them.
What happens after I complete my studies?
After completing your studies, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) which allows you to work in Australia temporarily. The duration ranges from 18 months to 4 years depending on your qualification.
What is Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)?
OSHC is mandatory health insurance for international students in Australia. It covers medical and hospital care, pharmaceuticals, and emergency ambulance services. You must maintain OSHC for the entire duration of your student visa.
What English language tests are accepted?
Australia accepts IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, Cambridge English (CAE), and Occupational English Test (OET). Required scores vary by institution and course level.
Can I extend my student visa?
Yes, if you need more time to complete your course or wish to undertake further studies, you can apply for a new student visa. You must meet all eligibility requirements again.
What is the age limit for student visas?
There is no official age limit for student visas. However, applicants must meet all genuine student requirements and demonstrate their study plans are appropriate for their age and background
Do I need to show funds for the entire course duration?
You need to show evidence you can cover tuition, living, and travel costs for the first year of your stay, plus have a plan for subsequent years.
Can I change education providers in Australia?
Yes, but there are restrictions during your first 6 months of study. You must follow proper procedures and maintain your visa conditions when changing providers.