• Australia

Australia Study Visa - Requirements, Process, Fee, How to Apply & More

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  • read time3 min Read
  • By:CANAM Group
  • Updated On:Oct 08,2024 11:22 AM IST

  • Australia is a sought-after destination for international students due to its world-class education, multicultural society, diverse opportunities, and work prospects.
  • To study in Australia, you'll need a Study Visa (Subclass 500). The application process involves obtaining a Confirmation of Enrollment, creating an ImmiAccount, preparing documents, paying fees, submitting the application, and awaiting a decision.
  • Apply for your visa at least 3-4 months before your course starts. Prepare a strong GTE statement, provide financial proof, double-check your documents, and stay in touch with immigration authorities.

Australia study Visa.webp


Australia is one of the top destinations for international students offering excellent quality of education, rich cultural diversity, and hospitality. The country is known to offer a wide range of UG and PG course options that suit the requirements of all types of students. However, before commencing your academic journey in Australia, you must obtain an Australia Study Visa.

In this detailed blog, we will guide you step by step through the Australia study visa process, requirements, fees, and processing time, along with some tips on applying for one.

Why Study in Australia?

Before delving into Australian Study visa details, it's crucial to understand the benefits of studying in Australia:

World-class EducationWith eight universities in the top 100 worldwide, Australia houses some of the world's most prestigious institutions and offers courses in diverse streams such as sciences and arts.
Multicultural SocietyAustralia offers a big and diverse multicultural society, making it a welcoming environment for students from different backgrounds.
Work OpportunitiesAs an international student, it will be easy to manage expenses abroad by working up to 48 hours in a fortnight during the academic year and unlimited hours during holidays.
Pathway to Permanent ResidencyGraduates with specific skills may have pathways to stay and work in Australia after their studies.


Now let’s understand the different types of visas students can find in Australia.

Types of Study Visas in Australia

The subclass you need for the Australia study visa may vary based on your course and study level. However, the most common type is Subclass 500. The table below highlights some of the visas required to study and work in Australia.

Visa TypeDescription
Subclass 500Allows you to study full-time in Australia at a registered educational institution.
Work and Holiday Visa (subclass 462)Visa holders may work and undertake short-term study (up to four months), such as English language studies, during their holidays in Australia.
Working Holiday Visa (subclass 417)During your stay in Australia, you can work and engage in short-term study (up to four months).
Training Visa (Subclass 407) Allows you to participate in workplace-based occupational training activities.  


Now, let’s get straight to the point i.e. the study visa for Australia- Subclass 500 Visa. 

Australia Study Visa Requirements

Before applying for your visa, you need to ensure that you meet the Australia study visa requirements. These requirements are: -

Enrollment in a Registered CourseYou should have received a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) from an accredited Australian institution.
Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) RequirementYou must demonstrate genuine intent to study in Australia and a plan to return home after completing your studies.
English ProficiencyDepending on the course, you must demonstrate your English language proficiency by taking an approved test, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
Financial RequirementsYou must demonstrate that you have enough funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Health Insurance (OSHC)You must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay.
Health and Character RequirementsSome students must undergo a medical examination and submit a police certificate.

Documents Required for Study Visa in Australia

Apart from the eligibility criteria, there are a few paper requirements you must submit to secure a study visa for Australia. These documents are: -

  • Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE)
  • Proof of Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE)
  • English language test results
  • Financial documents (bank statements, loan approval)
  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) proof
  • Health and character certificates, if required

Australia Study Visa Process

Applying for an Australia Study Visa is easy if you follow the correct steps. Here's a breakdown of the Australia study visa process:

Obtain a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE)

Before lodging your visa application, you must enrol and receive an offer from an Australian institution. Once enrolled, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE), which is required for your visa application.

Sign up for an ImmiAccount

The Australian Department of Home Affairs will process your visa application online through its ImmiAccount portal. You must sign up for an account and complete the online application form.

Gather Required Documents

Refer to the checklist above and prepare all documents required for your application. Upload your documents within your ImmiAccount.

Pay Australia Study Visa Fees

The Australia study visa fee for the Subclass 500 visa is AUD 1600. The fee is standard for all applicants, but it might be slightly different in certain special circumstances involving you or any of your family members.

Submit Your Application

Once you have filled out your application, you can submit it online. Depending on your case, you might be called to appear before a visa interview or even to gather further information after applying.

Biometrics (if necessary)

Depending on where you are, you may need to visit a local visa application centre to provide biometric data.

Wait for the Visa Decision

Once you submit your application, you have to wait for the Department of Home Affairs to decide on your visa application. You can also check the status of your application through ImmiAccount.

Australia Study Visa Processing Time

The Australia study visa processing time varies depending on several factors, including your country of residence and the completeness of your application. On average, the processing time is:

Visa Processing TimeEstimated Duration
75% of applicationsProcessed within 29 days
90% of applicationsProcessed within 42 days
Fast-track/Priority ProcessingProcessed within 5-10 business days (additional fee)
Standard Paper Applications2-3 months
Online Applications1-2 months
Global Processing Time1-8 weeks
Average Processing Time1-6 months

Ensure that you apply well in advance to avoid delays in starting your academic course.

Australia Study Visa Fees

The Australia study visa fees for the Subclass 500 visa are as follows:

Here's the updated table with additional fee descriptions and revised amounts (please note that fees may change, and it's best to check the official government website for the most up-to-date information):

Fee DescriptionAmount (AUD)
Visa Application Fee (Base Application)AUD 1600
Visa Application Fee (Dependent family member)AUD 700
Biometrics (if required)Free of Cost
Health ExaminationAUD 300-500 (approx.)
Police Clearance Certificate (Australia)
AUD 47
Police Clearance Certificate (Overseas)Variable
English Language Proficiency TestAUD 300-500 (approx.)
Translation Services (per page)AUD 50-100 (approx.)
Certification/Notarization (per document)
AUD 20-50 (approx.)

In some cases, additional fees may apply if you’re bringing family members or need to provide specific medical or character certificates.

Tips to Apply for a Study Visa in Australia

Successfully obtaining an Australian study visa requires careful planning and preparation. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth application process:

Apply EarlyAs the processing time can take over a month, it is recommended that you apply for your visa at least 3–4 months before your intended course start date.
Be Clear with Your GTE StatementYour GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) statement is crucial. Clearly explain your intention to return to your home country after completing your studies.
Ensure Financial ProofProvide clear and sufficient proof of funds. This can be through personal savings, approved loans, or financial support from family members.
Double-Check Your DocumentsEnsure that all uploaded documents are clear, complete, and meet the Department of Home Affairs requirements.
Maintain CommunicationKeep in touch with your educational institution and check your ImmiAccount regularly for any updates or requests from the visa processing team.

Conclusion


Pursuing higher education in Australia is an excellent opportunity that provides world-class education and develops your personality and career. Understanding the process of the Australia study visa get you ready for a smooth transition into academic life.

However, it all comes down to preparation, so make sure to prepare your documents, respect the deadlines, and follow the tips provided in this blog. Soon, you will be on your way to this golden experience in Australia, enjoying vibrant student life, a multicultural atmosphere, and great opportunities to build up your career.

And if you need expert guidance to navigate the application process smoothly, Canam, with its expert study abroad consultants, is here to assist you at every step. With all this information, you are ready to start your academic and professional journey through Australia!

FAQ

Yes! International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic session and unlimited hours during breaks.
You can bring eligible family members (spouses, parents and children) on your student visa if they meet visa requirements and have sufficient funds to support their stay.
If your visa is expiring before you finish your course, you can apply for a visa extension in Australia. Just make sure to submit your application before your current visa expires.
The GTE requirement demonstrates your intention to stay in Australia temporarily for study and includes details about your previous study, gap years, current employment, and ties to your home country.
The visa application fee is about AUD 1,600, but it can vary. Additional costs may include health checks, police certificates.
You can change your course or institution, but you must inform the Department of Home Affairs and ensure that your new course is at the same or a higher level of study.

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