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STUDENT VISA

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

An Australian study visa is a temporary visa that allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your studies.Guidelines for the Australian Student Visa have changed, effective from July 1, 2016, with the introduction of the Simplified Student Visa Framework (SSVF). According to the Australian Study Visa-Department of Immigration and Border Protection to Department of Home Affairs all international students intending to study in Australia are now required to apply for a visa under Subclass 500, which effectively consolidates the previous subclasses 571 – 576 into one

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Student Visa (Subclass 500)

Upcoming Intakes In Australia

Australian universities primarily offer two main intakes, though some institutions operate on a trimester system with a third option in late October or November.

Intake 2

July/August to November

Secondary Intake

Intake 1

February/March to June

Primary Intake

Some universities also offer Trimester or Quarter systems, with additional intakes in November or October, but these are less common. Most students consider the first intake the primary intake. It is advisable to prepare for the next intake.

Student Visa (Subclass 500)

When applying for your Subclass 500 visa, you must prepare these core documents to meet the Department of Home Affairs requirements:

  • Valid Passport: Your current passport must remain valid for the entire duration of your stay.
  • Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): A valid CoE issued by a CRICOS-registered Australian education provider.
  • Proof of Financial Capacity: Evidence that you can cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
  • Genuine Student (GS) Requirement: A series of targeted questions explaining your study goals and ties to your home country.
  • English Proficiency: Results from an approved test center (IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, or Cambridge C1).
  • Health Insurance: Proof of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for your entire visa period.
  • Academic Records: Certified transcripts and certificates from your previous studies.

Application Process

Studying in Australia in 3 Simple Steps! Before filling out the visa application, ensure that you meet all the requirements. In order to fulfill these criteria, you will be required to:

1. Ensure You Meet the Course Requirements

Enroll in a full-time undergraduate, master’s, or Ph.D. course registered with CRICOS. Your university will provide an electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) certificate as proof. You must also meet language requirements, typically an IELTS 6.0 or PTE 50, taken within the last two years.

2. Check Financial Capacity

You need to demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and travel costs. For 2026, the living expense requirement is AUD 29,710 for the primary student. Alternatively, you can show a combined parental or spouse annual income of at least AUD 87,856. You must also secure valid OSHC for your entire stay.

3. Meet Health and Character

Requirements You may be required to undergo a medical examination after your visa has been applied for to ensure you meet Australia’s health standards. Additionally, you may need to provide a police certificate or clearance from your home country to show you have no criminal background. Once met, you can proceed with your application on your ImmiAccount.

Document Checklist: Subclass 500

1. Identity Documents

  • Current Passport: High-resolution color scan of the biodata page (showing your photo and details).
  • National Identity Card: Both sides of your CNIC or equivalent national ID.
  • Birth Certificate: Showing both parent’s names.
  • Proof of Name Change: If your name on any document differs from your passport (e.g., marriage certificate).

2. Evidence of Enrolment

  • Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): A valid CoE for every course you intend to study in Australia.
  • Letter of Support: If sponsored by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade or Defence, submit a letter of support (and proof of funds if living costs are not covered).

3. Genuine Student (GS) Documents

The Genuine Student Test (GST) has replaced the old GTE statement. You must answer 4 specific questions within your application regarding your choice of course, career goals, and ties to your home country, providing:

  • Evidence of Employment: Latest payslips and contracts showing career progression.
  • Ties to Home Country: Proof of assets or family registration certificates.

4. Financial Capacity Evidence

You must show you have enough money to cover your stay. For 2026, the primary applicant requirement is AUD 29,710 for living costs alone. Additional funds must be shown for dependents: AUD 10,394 per year for a partner and AUD 4,449 per year per child under 18 years.

  • Bank Statements: Showing a history of savings for at least 3 months.
  • Education Loan: Official sanction letter from an approved financial institution.
  • Annual Income Proof: Evidence that your parents or spouse have a combined annual income of at least AUD 87,856 (or AUD 102,500 if bringing family).
  • Scholarship Letter: If you have been awarded a scholarship, include the official offer letter.

5. English Language Proficiency

  • Test Results: An official score report from an approved provider (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL iBT, or Cambridge C1).
  • Validity: Ensure the test was taken within 2 years of your application date.

6. Health & Character Documents

  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): A certificate or letter of a valid policy for the full duration of your visa.
  • Police Clearance Certificate (PCC): Required for any country where you have lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years (if aged 16+).
  • Health Examination: While this is often done after lodging, having your HAP ID ready can speed up the process.

Student Visa Processing Time

  • The visa processing times guide provides an estimate of how long a visa application may take to be processed. These timeframes are based on recently finalized applications and are indicative only; they do not guarantee that your application will be decided within the stated period. Approximately 50% of applications are processed within 32 days, while 90% of applications are processed within 6 months.

If you're considering a change of course during your university studies, it’s important to consider the impact it may have on your academic progress and future career goals. Before making a decision, it's a good idea to meet with our experts to discuss your options and ensure that the new course aligns with your interests and career aspirations. It’s also important to review the admission requirements and prerequisites for the new course, as well as the transfer credit policy of your current university.

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