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For international students studying in Canada, obtaining an Australian student visa (Subclass 500) is essential to pursue higher education in an Australian institution. To apply for an Australian student visa, you will need to fulfill visa requirements, pay for applicable fees, and ensure you meet eligibility criteria.
Ready to start your student visa application? Here’s how the Australian student visa (subclass 500) application process works and how to get visa support to help you with a smooth transition to studying there.
According to the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs, the primary visa for students planning to study in Australia is the Student Visa (Subclass 500). With this visa, and full-time enrollment in an accredited course at an Australian university, you will be able to study full-time in Australia with benefits such as part-time work rights and travel in and out of Australia.
Based on information on the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs, Student Visa (Subclass 500) page, here’s how to apply:
1. Choose a Study Program and Institution
Ensure that your school is recognized as part of the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).
2. Receive a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE)
After securing admission, the university will issue an Electronic Confirmation of Enrollment (eCOE), a mandatory document for visa application.
3. Prepare Required Documents
A valid passport
Proof of financial capacity (tuition fees, living expenses, airfare)
Academic and work experience records
Confirmation of Enrolment (COE), letters of support, and proof of acceptance from your registered Australian school.
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
English proficiency test results (such as IELTS)
Health insurance proof (Overseas Student Health Cover - OSHC)
Certificate of polio vaccine
Genuine Student requirement documents
Health examination report (if applicable)
Police clearance (if applicable)
Proof of visa fee exemption (if applicable)
Signed Australian Values Statement
Documents for accompanying children or partner(s) (if applicable)
4. Submit an Online Visa Application
Apply through the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
Pay the fees for an Australia student visa (starting at AUD $1,600). Refer to the Department of Home Affairs for the most accurate fee information.
5. Await Visa Decision
Processing times vary depending on your visa program, stream, and the date your application was submitted. You can calculate your processing time using the Government of Australia’s Department of Home Affairs Visa Processing Times Guide.
The Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs states that the eligibility requirements for the Student Visa (Subclass 500) are as follows:
Must be enrolled in a full-time CRICOS-registered program
Fulfill minimum age requirements (over 6 years of age)
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Have sufficient funds to cover expenses and proof of finances
NOTE: These costs depend on whether you are a student, arriving with a partner(s) or any children. For the most accurate minimum cost, refer to the Department of Home Affairs Student Visa (Subclass 500) “Step-by-Step” > “Gather Documents” > “Evidence You Have Enough Money for Your Stay” section
Meet English language proficiency requirements (varies by program and institution).
Character and health requirements
Genuine Student requirement fulfillment. Refer to the Australian Government’s Genuine Student Requirement page
Signed Australian Values Statement
No debt owed to Australian Government
Does not have existing or cancelled visa application
Your move must also be in the best interests of any accompanying child under 18, or you may not receive your visa.
Common challenges for international students applying for the Subclass 500 visa include:
Meeting financial proof requirements
Understanding visa conditions and restrictions
Navigating documentation requirements
Here’s how you can avoid these challenges:
Apply early: Start your visa process as soon as you receive your COE. Check the Government of Australia’s visa processing time tool to know how early to submit your application.
Ensure financial documents meet student visa requirements, depending on if you are arriving alone or with a partner(s) or children. You will need to show clear evidence of funds. Refer to “Evidence You Have Enough Money for Your Stay” for more information.
Follow health and character requirements: Ensure medical checks and police clearance are in order (if required).
Stay updated on Australian immigration policies. Visa regulations and requirements are subject to change, so it is in your best interest to always refer to information on the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs Student Visa (Subclass 500) page and their News and Media page.
Navigating the Australian study visa process can be complex, and professional visa application assistance can minimize a lot of stress.
Expert Guidance: Experienced professionals can ensure you avoid common mistakes that could delay your visa approval.
Better Document Verification: You will be able to ensure that you have all necessary documents and that your paperwork meets any government requirements.
Increase Efficiency: With an application free of errors, you will likely reduce your processing time by omitting any chance of needing to correct or resubmit your application.
Continued Support: Throughout the process, you will be able to get help with any extensions, accompanying permits, or other visa conditions.
If you need assistance, reach out to registered migration agents or university advisors who can guide you through the process.
When you are applying for the Australian student visa (Subclass 500) from Canada as an international student, there are a lot of steps to consider, from your Confirmation of Enrolment (COE) to completing all the required documents.
No matter where you are in your visa application journey, there’s expert advice available that can help you through proper planning and submitting an error-free and complete visa application in time for the start of your studies.
Need more help or have questions? Consult a certified visa consultant, university advisors or free services like IDP Education Canada’s student counsellors to ensure your application process is as smooth as possible.
Legal Disclaimer: IDP Canada is not a registered migration consultant and does not provide immigration services or provide immigration advice. The contents of this page are for general information only and is based on information from the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website, which you can access through: https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/. Information can change from time to time. For the most up to date information visit the website.
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