Australian Student Visas
BREAKING NEWS: Australia announces major changes to migration policy
Strong focus on encouraging students and migrants to destinations outside the three major cities of Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. The media release from Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison can be viewed here. Please contact Study Options for further information and to find out how these changes could affect your plans to study in Australia.
Anyone enrolling as an international student on a course lasting four months or more in Australia will need a student visa. Here are the key things to know.
Please note that in order to apply for an Australian student visa, you must have an unconditional offer of place at a university, have accepted that place in writing and paid the required tuition fee deposit. It is therefore one of the last parts of the process to organise.
What type of visa do I need?
For all programmes of study you will be applying for a subclass 500 student visa. This visa must be applied for using the online system, here
When should I apply?
Is there an age limit?
Can I still get a student visa if I’ve already had a working holiday visa for Australia?
How much does it cost?
The visa application fee is currently AU$630, which needs to be paid when you submit your application. Please note that visa application charges are reviewed annually on July 1. If you have dependents joining you on your visa there will be additional fees payable when you make your application.
How long does the visa last?
How long does the visa take to get?
When can I travel to Australia?
Can I work while on this visa?
Can I take my partner with me on my student visa?
Do I need to provide any health documents or checks?
Can I apply for another visa when my course ends?
In some circumstances it may be possible to apply for a further visa at the end of your course. Please visit the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au to find out what your options are. Under current visa rules if you have studied for two years towards a university bachelors, masters or research degree you will be entitled to apply for a Post Study Work Visa. This visa will allow you to remain in Australia for two to four years (dependent on level of study).
How do I apply?
Your obligations
- You must remain enrolled in a course registered on CRICOS (cricos.deewr.gov.au).
- You must maintain satisfactory attendance on your course, as required by your education provider.
- You must make satisfactory academic progress for each study period.
- You must advise your education provider of your home address within seven days of arriving in Australia. If you change address during your stay, you must tell your education provider within seven days.
- You must maintain suitable health insurance throughout your time in Australia. This can be done by obtaining OSHC.
What will I need to apply?
Your nationality (according to your passport) and your chosen Australian university will determine what documents you need to show for your visa application. Please use the document checklist tool at https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/already-have-a-visa/check-visa-details-and-conditions/see-your-visa-conditions to check this before making your application. You will also need your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), the application fee, your passport number, and evidence you have paid for appropriate Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) insurance.
All information is correct at October 2021 but is subject to change. Please check the Australian Department of Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date information before applying for your visa.