All student visa applications must be submitted online via ImmiAccount.
Steps:
Receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for a CRICOS-registered full-time course
Pay your tuition deposit (if applicable)
Prepare and submit your application with required documentation
Note: If you switch to a lower-level qualification (e.g. Bachelor to Diploma), you must apply for a new visa.
You may package courses (e.g. English + Foundation + Degree) if the pathway is clearly structured.
If your course ends in December, your visa may be valid until March 15 the following year.
For earlier completions, up to 2 months may be granted.
Be prepared with the following:
Completed Form 157A (online application)
Visa application fee payment
Copy of passport biodata page
CoE or Letter of Offer
Proof of financial support
English test results (if required)
OSHC coverage details
Police clearance certificates
4 passport-sized photos
Use the Department of Home Affairs Checklist Tool for country-specific document requirements.
You must maintain valid OSHC for the entire stay. Approved providers include:
BUPA Australia
Medibank Private
Allianz Global Assistance
nib OSHC
Australian Health Management
Some medical exams are required for high-risk health professions (e.g. nursing, dentistry).
To study in Australia, international students must apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500).
This visa allows eligible applicants to live and study in Australia for up to 5 years, depending on the type and duration of their course.
Additional time may be granted for certain qualifications.
Enrol in a full-time CRICOS-registered course
Travel freely in and out of Australia
Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods
Work unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks
To be granted a Student Visa (Subclass 500), you must meet the following requirements:
Show a genuine intent to study in Australia temporarily. Key factors considered:
Circumstances in your home country
Course value to your future
Potential post-study opportunities
Immigration history
Note: You may be asked to attend an interview at your nearest Australian embassy or consulate.
You must show sufficient funds to cover:
Tuition fees
Travel costs
Living expenses (minimum AU$24,505 per year for 2024)
Dependent expenses (if applicable)
Sponsorship by a parent/spouse is accepted if they earn at least AU$72,465 annually.
Provide valid results from approved tests:
IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge Advanced
Requirements vary based on course level (e.g., Diploma, Bachelor, ELICOS)
Undergo medical checks (if required)
Maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Meet character requirements (e.g. background checks)
Up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time
Unlimited hours during breaks
PhD & research Master’s students can work full-time
Volunteer work is permitted if unpaid and community-beneficial
Within 7 days of arrival, you must:
Provide your address to your education provider
Notify them of any address changes
You must also:
Maintain enrolment in a CRICOS course
Make satisfactory academic progress
Keep valid OSHC coverage
Comply with all visa conditions
