Australia Announces Higher Student Visa Fees; ASEAN Students May Pay Less
- 5 min
- Published: 3 July 2026
- Updated: 2 July 2026
Students planning to study in Australia should prepare for higher visa application costs following the latest changes to the country's student visa program. Effective July 1, 2026, the Australian Government increased the application charge for the Student Visa (Subclass 500) to AU$2,500, or about ₱106,000.
This move effectively raised the upfront cost for many prospective international students and made Australia have one of the most expensive student visa programs among major study destinations.
However, the announcement from the country's Department of Home Affairs also highlighted the relatively lower fees that will be paid by select students, including those coming from Southeast Asia. Eligible students from ASEAN countries are only expected to pay AU$2,050, which is approximately ₱87,200 based on today's AUD-PHP exchange rates.
Temporary Graduate Visas
The recent changes extend beyond student visas. International graduates who plan to remain in Australia after completing their studies will also face higher costs because fees for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) are now AU$5,750, a significant increase from the previous AU$4,600 fee.
This is the second time in six months that fees for the Subclass 485 visa have had a significant increase. Before March 2026, the fee was just AU$2,235.
The Subclass 485 visa allows eligible international students to live and work in Australia temporarily after graduation. Depending on the qualification obtained, graduates may remain in the country for about 18 months (post-vocational graduates) to a few years (degree holders).
The changes underscore the importance of long-term financial planning. Students considering Australia as a study destination may benefit from understanding not only the cost of obtaining a student visa, but also the potential expenses they may encounter after graduation if they intend to take advantage of post-study work opportunities.
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What This Means for Future Students
The updated visa fee adds to the overall financial commitment required to study in Australia. Beyond the visa application itself, students must also budget for tuition fees, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), IELTS tests, medical examinations, accommodation, and living expenses.
As a result, early planning has become increasingly important. Understanding the full cost of studying abroad can help students and their families make informed decisions about their education pathway and financial preparations.
Seeking professional guidance can also help students navigate the application process more confidently. By understanding visa requirements and associated costs early on, prospective students can better position themselves for a smoother study-abroad journey.
Students interested in studying in Australia may consult with an IDP counselor to learn more about the latest visa updates, available study options, and whether they may qualify for lower visa fees under the new policy. #
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