Australia/Student Visa (subclass 500)

Australia Student Visa: AUD 2,000 (Subclass 500)

Complete guide to Australia Student Visa requirements for international students.

Processing: 4-6 weeks
Fee: AUD 2000
Last verified:January 2026
Updated:
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Verified:
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Reviewed bySam Calder
|Editorial Policy

Overview

The Student Visa (subclass 500) allows you to study full-time at an educational institution in Australia. You must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered institution.

This visa allows you to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. You can also include family members in your application.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course
  • Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
  • Genuine Student (GS) requirement
  • Sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses
  • English language proficiency
  • Meet health and character requirements
  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

Required Documents

Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

Required

From CRICOS-registered institution

Valid Passport

Required

Valid throughout intended stay

GS Statement

Required

Explaining genuine intention to study in Australia under the Genuine Student (GS) requirement

Financial Evidence

Required

Proof of funds for tuition + AUD 29,710/year living costs

English Test Results

Required

IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or equivalent

OSHC

Required

Official requirements regarding mandatory health insurance coverage for the duration of your study in Australia.

Academic Transcripts

Required

Requirements for providing official transcripts and certificates from your previous academic institutions.

Application Steps

1

Get CoE

Receive Confirmation of Enrolment from institution

2

Purchase OSHC

Get health cover before applying

3

Create ImmiAccount

Register on immigration portal

4

Complete Application

Fill in visa application online

5

Upload Documents

Instructions for securely uploading all mandatory supporting evidence through the official online application portal.

6

Pay Fee

Pay AUD 2,000 visa application charge

7

Biometrics

Provide biometrics if requested

8

Receive Decision

Information explaining that your approved electronic visa will be delivered directly to your registered email address.

Visa Fees

TypeAmountNote
Student VisaAUD 2000-
Additional Applicant (over 18)AUD 795-
Additional Applicant (under 18)AUD 265-
View full Australia fee breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work on an Australia Student Visa?

Yes, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks.

How much money do I need for Australia student visa?

You need to show funds for your course fees plus AUD 29,710 per year for living costs, plus AUD 2,043 for each family member.

What is the Genuine Student (GS) requirement for Australia student visa?

The Genuine Student (GS) requirement replaced the former Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) test in March 2024. You must provide a statement explaining why you chose your course and institution, how it relates to your background and future plans, and why you are a genuine student. The focus is on whether you are genuinely coming to study, rather than whether you will return home.

What is OSHC and do I need it?

OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is mandatory health insurance for student visa holders. You must purchase it before applying and maintain coverage throughout your stay. Several approved providers offer OSHC.

Can I bring my family on an Australia student visa?

Yes, you can include your spouse/partner and dependent children in your application. Each additional person requires extra funds to be shown and pays additional visa fees.

Can I stay in Australia after my studies?

You may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) after completing eligible studies. This allows you to stay and work in Australia for 2-4 years depending on your qualification level.

Generate Your Documents

Create all required documents for your Student Visa (subclass 500) application

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Processing Time

4-6 weeks
Standard processing

Important

Requirements may change. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate website before applying.

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Official Sources

This information is based on the following official sources. Always verify with these sources before submitting applications.

Student Visa (subclass 500)

Comprehensive Department of Home Affairs guidance on the Subclass 500 Student visa requirements and conditions.

immi.homeaffairs.gov.auOfficial
Financial Requirements

Genuine Student (GS) and financial requirements

immi.homeaffairs.gov.auOfficial
CRICOS

The official database tool used to verify if an academic course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).

cricos.education.gov.auOfficial

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