Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500): Complete Application Guide

What is the Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500)?

The Student Visa (subclass 500) allows international students to study full-time at registered Australian education institutions. It covers all levels from primary school to postgraduate research.

Key Facts:

• Fee: AUD 1,600 (main applicant)
• Processing: 4-6 weeks (varies by country)
• Allows work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term
• Must maintain enrollment and attendance requirements

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible, you must:

1. Be accepted into a CRICOS-registered course
2. Have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
3. Meet the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement
4. Have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
5. Demonstrate sufficient funds
6. Meet English language requirements
7. Meet character and health requirements

Step 1: Get Accepted and Receive CoE

1. Choose a CRICOS-registered course (search at cricos.education.gov.au)
2. Apply to the institution
3. Accept your offer and pay the deposit
4. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) with a unique code
5. Keep your CoE safe - you need the code for your visa application

Step 2: Write Your GTE Statement

The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement is critical. You must demonstrate:

• Why this course: How it relates to your career goals
• Why Australia: Why you chose Australia over your home country
• Your circumstances: Current employment, family ties, economic situation
• Return plans: What you'll do after completing studies
• Immigration history: Previous travel and visa compliance

Tips for GTE:

• Be specific about career plans in your home country
• Explain the gap if you've been out of study
• Reference job market conditions in your home country
• Keep it to 1-2 pages

Step 3: Purchase OSHC

Overseas Student Health Cover is mandatory before applying. Approved providers include:

• Medibank
• Allianz Care Australia
• BUPA Australia
• nib

OSHC must cover your entire visa duration. Purchase before submitting your application.

Step 4: Prepare Financial Documents

You must show funds for:

• Tuition: As shown on your CoE
• Living costs: AUD 24,505 per year
• School-age dependents: AUD 11,592 per year per child
• Travel: Return airfare

Acceptable evidence:

• Bank statements showing funds held for at least 3 months
• Government loan
• Scholarship documentation
• Financial declaration from sponsor

Step 5: Meet English Requirements

Accepted tests and minimum scores (may vary by institution):

• IELTS Academic: Overall 5.5+ (varies by course)
• TOEFL iBT: 46+
• PTE Academic: 42+
• Cambridge: 162+

Some exemptions apply for citizens of English-speaking countries or students who completed prior studies in English.

Step 6: Apply via ImmiAccount

1. Create an ImmiAccount at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
2. Select "New Application" > Student Visa (500)
3. Enter your CoE number
4. Complete all sections of the application
5. Upload supporting documents
6. Pay AUD 1,600 application fee
7. Submit and note your application reference number

Step 7: Health Examination and Biometrics

After submitting:

• You may receive a request for a health examination
• Complete it with an approved panel physician
• Biometrics may be required depending on your nationality
• Results are sent directly to the Department of Home Affairs

Step 8: Receive Decision

• Granted: You'll receive a visa grant notification by email
• Refused: You'll receive reasons and may have review options
• Request for more info: Provide additional documents within the deadline

Your visa is electronic - no stamp or label in your passport.

Working While Studying

During Term

• Up to 48 hours per fortnight (two weeks)
• Unlimited hours for specified work (part of your course)

During Breaks

• Unlimited work hours during scheduled course breaks

After Graduation

• Apply for Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485)
• 2-4 years depending on qualification level
• Full work rights

Maintaining Your Student Visa

You must:

• Remain enrolled in a CRICOS course
• Maintain satisfactory attendance (typically 80%+)
• Make satisfactory course progress
• Maintain OSHC coverage
• Notify your provider of address changes within 7 days

Common Refusal Reasons

1. Weak GTE statement - Doesn't convincingly show temporary intent
2. Insufficient funds - Financial evidence doesn't cover full costs
3. Course doesn't match background - Study plan inconsistent with previous education or work
4. Health or character issues - Failed medical or police checks
5. Poor English - Test scores below required minimums