Student Visa Australia (Subclass 500) - Study & Migration In Australia

The Student visa (subclass 500) is the primary visa that allows international students to study full-time in Australia. 

Benefits of the Student (subclass 500) visa

With this visa, you can:

• Study full-time in a recognised Australian course.

• Work part-time (up to 48 hours per fortnight) while your course is in session, and full-time during breaks.

• Include your family members (partner and children) in your application. 

• If you are studying a Master’s degree, your partner can work full-time for the duration of your visa.

• Travel freely in and out of Australia during your visa period.

Access post-study options by using your student visa as a pathway to the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485).

What are the best courses for international students in Australia?

If you’re looking at courses with high international enrollees, with good employment prospects and PR chances, we have ranked the best courses for international students.

Processing times can vary depending on your situation. On average, student visas take a few weeks to a few months to be finalised. The timing depends on:

• How complete your application is.

• How quickly you respond to requests for more information.

• The course you’re applying for and where you’re applying from.

Expert tip: Incomplete or weak documents are the top reason for visa delays and refusals. With IDP, you’ll get expert guidance on what evidence carries the most weight, so your application is complete, strong, and ready to move faster.

Primary applicant: AUD$2,000 (as of 2025)

To apply, you need to:

• Have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) in a full-time course registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and courses for Overseas Students, CRICOS.

• Meet English language requirements 

• Hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay.

• Show you have enough funds to cover your tuition, living costs, and travel.

• Meet health and character requirements set by the Australian Government.

• If you’re under 18 years of age, you must have adequate welfare arrangements in place while you are in Australia.

You can take an approved English test to prove your English proficiency when applying for a Student (subclass 500) visa.

Below are the scores you’ll have to meet, depending on the test you’ll take.

Updated required English scores - 7 August 2025

Updated English scores for different Australian visas

• Need to take an English test for your Student (subclass 500) visa? Book an IELTS test with IDP and access a free online preparation course.

• Top Universities in Australia and their IELTS requirements

How much bank balance is required for an Australian student visa 2025?

For the primary applicant, the requirement is about AUD $29,710 per year (2025 update). If you have family members coming with you, they also need to meet the minimum required funds.

Minimum required funds to meet financial capacity requirements 

Before you can apply for a Student visa (subclass 500), you need a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

This means that you also have to meet the entry requirements specified by your chosen university in Australia. 

This can sometimes get complicated. For example, your overseas qualifications must match Australian standards. If they don’t, you may need to complete a pathway program in Australia. Postgraduate courses can have even stricter rules. Some require that your bachelor’s degree is in a related field, while others may only accept students who have an Honours year or equivalent.

Your entry requirements will differ according to your educational background. If you need help ensuring you are eligible for your target course, don’t hesitate to talk to our education counsellors for free guidance.

With expert guidance from our MARA-registered agents, you’ll get:

• Clarity on the requirements you’ll have to meet.

• Tailored advice for your study-to-PR plans.

• Expert help in strengthening your application.

• Understand policy changes that may affect your visa conditions, processing times, and more.

• Hassle-free preparation: We can scan, certify, translate, and transport your documents for you. 

• Peace of mind that your visa application is complete and meets the DOHA requirements.

TLDR: Student Visa Process

• Accept your Letter of Offer.

• Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

• Provide proof of English proficiency.

• Meet the new Genuine Student (GS) requirement.

• Prepare all required documents.

• Arrange Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

• Submit your visa application online through ImmiAccount.

How to apply for a Student Visa in Australia

Step 1 – Accept your Letter of Offer

If your course application is approved, you’ll get a Letter of Offer from your school. Read it carefully because it lists your course details, fees, refund rules, and enrolment conditions.

Only accept it if you’re happy with the offer. For example, you might not agree if the tuition fee is higher than expected, if the refund rules don’t seem fair, or if the course details (like start date or study mode) aren’t what you applied for.

When you apply for your course with IDP, we’ll give you a clear breakdown of your course fees, explain the refund policies, and make sure the offer matches what you expected.

If something doesn’t feel right, we can also help you explore other universities that fit your goals and budget. That way, you can accept your Letter of Offer with confidence.

Step 2 – Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

After you accept the offer and pay your deposit, your school will send you a CoE. You’ll need this document for your visa application.

Step 3 – Provide proof of English

You may need to show results from an approved English test to prove you can study in English.

IELTS is the most trusted English test by top Australian universities, so you’ll never have to worry about the validity of your test.

Plus, most Australian universities accept IELTS One Skill Retake. This is a great advantage because if you ever fail one part of your test, you’ll only have to retake that part, instead of redoing the whole thing. This saves you from stress, extra time, and money. 

Step 4 – Meet the Genuine Student (GS) requirement

As of 23 March 2024, the Genuine Student (GS) requirement has replaced the old Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. Instead of writing a 300-word personal statement, you now answer specific questions directly in the visa application form.

When completing your visa application, you will be asked to provide short, direct responses (maximum 150 words each) to structured questions such as:

You will be asked to respond to the following four questions (maximum 150 words each):

1. Current circumstances – Provide details of your ties to family, community, employment, and your financial situation.

2. Why this course and provider in Australia – Explain why you chose Australia and this specific institution. Show that you understand your course content, requirements, and what it means to live and study in Australia.

3. How the course will benefit you – Describe how this qualification connects to your past study or work, and how it supports your career or future plans.

4. Other relevant information – Include any additional details you think are important for your application.

The New Genuine Student Requirement Explained

Step 5 – Prepare evidence of your financial capacity

Prepare evidence that you can pay for tuition, living costs (about AUD $29,710 a year), and travel. Bank statements, loan documents, or sponsor letters are usually accepted.

Step 6 – Arrange Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Health insurance is mandatory. You must have OSHC for the length of your stay.

Step 7 – Complete health and character checks
You may need to complete a medical exam and answer questions about your background. In some cases, a police check is required.

Step 8 – Apply online
Once you have all your documents ready, submit your visa application through ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.

How to submit a strong application for a student visa in Australia

To be approved, your application must meet the Genuine Student (GS) requirement, provide accurate supporting documents, and show that your chosen course aligns with your background and future goals. 

Even small mistakes—like weak explanations, unclear career links, or missing evidence—can affect your chances of approval.

That’s why expert guidance makes a difference. At IDP, we stay updated on the latest visa policy changes and know exactly how to strengthen your GS responses. We’ll help you connect your course choice to your personal and career goals, ensure your documents are complete, and prepare a strong application that avoids delays.

These are the documents you’ll need to prepare to support your student visa application. 

1. Proof of identity

• Passport copy (required)

• Certified copy of birth certificate, national identity card, or driver's licence (if available)

2. Course enrolment

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for each course you plan to study

3. Health cover

• Evidence of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the length of your stay

4. Genuine Student (GS) requirement

You’ll need to answer the GS questions in your visa application form, and support your answers with documents such as:

• Proof of employment (payslips, contracts, reference letters)

• Academic transcripts and graduation certificates from previous studies

• Statement of purpose or course research (why you chose this course and provider)

• Career plans, CV, or evidence of future job opportunities

• Financial and family ties (bank statements, property ownership, family certificates)

• Any other documents that reflect your personal circumstances (e.g. community involvement, immigration history)

5. Financial capacity

You must prove you have enough money to cover tuition, living costs, and travel. Evidence can include:

• Bank statements or passbooks showing recent cash deposits

• Loan approval letter from a recognised financial institution

• Proof of income (for you, your parents, or your spouse)

  • At least AUD 60,000 if you are supported alone

  • At least AUD 70,000 if dependants will join you

6. Family and relationship documents (if applicable)

• Marriage certificate, Family Book, or other proof of relationship

• Evidence of dependants’ enrolment in school (if children will accompany you)

Make sure your visa application is complete

Even a small mistake or a missing document can delay your visa outcome. In some cases, it can even lead to a refusal. 

That’s why it’s important to double-check every part of your application before you submit it. We can help you prepare the required documents that best support your application. This saves you time and reduces the risk of setbacks in your visa journey.

We’ve helped thousands of students successfully study in Australia, so you can trust us to know the process inside out. Here are some of our successful student visa stories. 

Once you have been granted your student visa, you must:

• Stay enrolled in a registered course.

• Attend classes and make progress in your studies.

• Inform your provider if you’re sick or if there are any other issues that may affect your attendance.

• Keep OSHC health cover for the whole time you’re in Australia.

• Work within the allowed hours (up to 48 hours per fortnight during study, unlimited during breaks).

• Notify your provider if you change your address or contact details.

Know how to check your visa status and conditions.

Visa conditions

What are the working rights on Student visa 500?

The student visa 500 allows you to work up to 48 hours fortnightly when your course is in session. You can work unlimited when you are in school holiday. You would be allowed to start your part-time work once the course starts.

Can I travel on my visa?

You can travel outside Australia and return as many times as you want with a valid visa.

Can I work with a student visa 500?

Yes. You can work part-time while studying, and full-time during breaks. This makes it easier to gain experience and support yourself while you study.

How many hours can you work on a student visa 500?

You can work up to 48 hours every two weeks during study periods. In your official breaks, you can work full-time. 

Can I change courses with a visa 500?

Yes, but there are rules. You must keep studying at the right level that matches your visa. If you want to change to a lower-level course, you may need to apply for a new visa. Always check with your education provider and IDP before making changes.

How to change courses or providers on a student visa in Australia

How long can you stay on a 500 visa?

Your visa lasts for the length of your course. Usually, this is 2–5 years, depending on what you study.

Financial and proof of funds

What proof of funds do I need for a student visa?

You need to show proof that you can pay for:

• Tuition fees (for the first 12 months of your course)

• Living expenses (about AUD $29,710 per year)

• Travel costs to and from Australia

Proof can be bank statements, evidence of a loan, or proof of financial support from a parent or sponsor.

Family and dependents

Can I include anyone else in my application?

Yes, you may include family members for student visas. They include:

• your partner or

• your or your partner’s dependent child who is unmarried and has not turned 18 years old.

Do I declare my family member in my student visa application even if they don’t travel to Australia with me?

You must declare your family members in your application, even if they don’t have any plans to travel with you to Australia.

If you don’t declare them and they need to join you in Australia later, you’ll need to apply for a new student visa including them and clarify why they weren’t included in your earlier application. This is exempt if they became your family member after your student visa was granted and before a subsequent application is made.

Health and welfare requirements

Do I need health insurance for my Student visa 500?

Yes, you and your family members must be covered by Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) from an approved Australian health insurance provider for the whole of your stay in Australia. 

If you’re unsure of which student health cover to get, we have done all the hard work of selecting quality providers. You can compare OSHC providers and get an instant quote. Please also see student visa grant periods to determine the length of coverage you need.

What welfare arrangements must be organised for applicants under 18 years of age?

You must either:

• nominate a student guardian. A student guardian can be a parent, legal custodian or a relative over 21 years of age. He or she must have a visa to stay in Australia until you turn 18 or for the period of your student visa

• organise a Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation and Welfare (CAAW) with your education provider. Get them to issue a CAAW and advise the Department of Home Affairs of your welfare arrangements start and end date

• obtain your Acceptance Advice of Secondary Exchange Student (AASES) form if you’re a secondary exchange student. Attach a signed copy of the CAAW to the student visa application, or arrange approval of your welfare arrangements from the relevant Minister, if you’re a Foreign Affairs or Defence student.

English language requirements

Will I need to take an IELTS test for my Student visa 500?

You may be required to provide evidence of your English language skills at any time while your application is being processed. IELTS is the world’s most popular English language proficiency test for study, work and migration. As a proud co-owner of IELTS, we can help you book and prepare for your IELTS test if you’re required to take one.

If evidence of my English language skills is required, what must I provide?

You must provide proof that you:

• have obtained a certain test score in an English language test that the Department has approved. You must have taken the English language test in the 2 years before you apply for a student visa.

• have completed certain eligible studies in English, or fall into an exemption category

General questions 

Is a student visa subclass 500 a temporary visa?

Yes. The Student (subclass 500) visa is a temporary visa that lets you stay in Australia while you study. The length of your stay depends on your course.

How long does it take to get a 500 student visa?

Processing usually takes a few weeks to a few months, depending on your case and documents. The Department of Home Affairs updates average times, but applying early helps avoid delays.

What is the difference between 485 and 500 visa?

The Student (subclass 500) visa lets you study in Australia. The Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa lets you stay and work in Australia after you finish your studies.

What do I do if I need to extend my visa?

If you would like to continue studying in Australia, you must apply for a new student visa. speak to us to determine which new visa you’ll need to suit your circumstances.

What do I do if my situation has changed?

Make sure you inform the Department of Home Affairs if things change. Things that you need to let them know about include:

• changes to your phone number, email, address or passport

• changes to your relationship status

• changes to your welfare arrangements

• the birth of a child

Check out the most common situations here

How do I find out what the visa outcome is?

You will be notified in writing about your visa application. You will be provided with:

• your visa grant number

• the date your visa expires

• your visa conditions

Always keep a copy of the visa grant when in Australia.

If your visa application is refused, you’ll know in writing why it was refused and whether you have a right to a review of the decision. Unfortunately, the application charge will not be refunded if your application is refused.

Whatever your target course is, our IDP education counsellors can help you find the best course and university options for you.

We’ll ask you about your study goals—whether that’s to pursue a career in Australia or back home, or to eventually gain PR here—and we’ll provide you with the best advice for your situation.

Many students love IDP not only for our expert and honest guidance. 

So, are you ready to apply to your dream university now?

Or are you just narrowing down your choices?

Let’s help you figure out your plans in a quick chat!

MARA (Migration Agents Registration Authority) agents are officially licensed by the Australian government to give migration advice. 

That means they don’t just “know about visas," they are legally qualified to guide you through the process.

Here’s why that matters for your student visa application:

• Up-to-date expertise: We stay current with student visa rules and processing requirements, so you get accurate, reliable advice.

• Tailored solutions: We can assess your specific situation—like your Genuine Student (GS) requirement responses, financial documents, past study history, or previous visa applications—and explain what it means for your visa outcome.

• Peace of mind: Instead of worrying if you’ve understood the rules correctly or submitted the right documents, you can be confident you’re on the right track.

Melbourne

Liping Helen Shan (MARN 0961842)

Fluent in English and Mandarin
Helen has been a registered Migration Agent since 2009. With a background in both migration and education consulting, she has helped countless clients with Student, Skilled, Visitor, Family Sponsored, and State Nomination visas.

Book an appointment with Helen

Perth

Jihang Michael Li (MARN 1802068)

Fluent in English and Mandarin

Michael has been a registered Migration Agent since 2018. Originally trained as a Nuclear Engineer, he now specialises in helping clients with a wide range of visas. He combines his technical skills with a strong legal foundation as he completes his Juris Doctor at UWA.

Book an appointment with Michael

Brisbane

Jitendra Gautam (MARN 2518722)

Fluent in Nepalese and English

Jitendra came to Australia as an international student in 2009 and now uses his first-hand experience to guide others.

With a Graduate Diploma in Migration Law and a background in IT and education counselling, he specialises in supporting students and skilled professionals.

Book an appointment with Jitendra