Student Visa
Student Visa (Subclass 500) – Open the Door to Knowledge and Future Opportunities
“The Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) is designed for international students who wish to undertake full-time study in Australia. This guide outlines the key eligibility criteria, benefits, application process, and processing time to help you make informed decisions about your educational journey.”
What is a Student Visa (Subclass 500)?
The Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows international students to live and study full-time at an accredited educational institution in Australia. It is an ideal pathway for those seeking high-quality education, career advancement, and long-term settlement opportunities in Australia.
This visa covers various levels of study, including:
- Primary and secondary school
- Vocational education and training (VET)
- Higher education (undergraduate and postgraduate)
- English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS)
While holding a Student Visa, you can reside in Australia for the duration of your course and work part-time during study periods.
Key eligibility requirements
Obtaining a Student Visa involves more than just receiving an offer of enrolment. You must meet the following essential criteria:
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): Issued by a registered Australian education provider.
- Genuine temporary entrant (GTE): Demonstrate a genuine intention to study temporarily in Australia.
- Academic qualifications: Relevant to the level of study applied for.
- English proficiency: Provide IELTS, PTE, or equivalent results (unless exempted based on nationality or course type).
- Overseas student health cover (OSHC): Compulsory for the entire stay in Australia.
- Financial evidence: Show sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel.
- Health and character requirements: Good immigration history and medical fitness.
Key benefits of a student visa
Holding a Student Visa (Subclass 500) offers a wide range of advantages:
- Access to Australia’s world-class education system
- Stay in Australia for up to 5 years depending on your course
- Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study terms and full-time during breaks
- Bring eligible family members (spouse/partner and dependent children)
- Pathway to post-study work and skilled migration visas (e.g., 485, 189, 190)
- Access to OSHC health services
Required documents and application process
A complete Student Visa application should include:
- Academic transcripts, certificates, and qualifications
- Passport, ID photo, birth certificate, and CV
- CoE from your chosen institution
- A well-written and genuine GTE statement
- English language test results (IELTS/PTE or equivalent)
- Proof of financial capacity (savings, income, or sponsor documents)
- OSHC insurance documents
- Medical examination and police clearance certificates
Cost and processing time
- Visa application fee: AUD $1,600 (subject to change)
- Processing time: Typically, 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the volume of applications and individual circumstances
Post-Study options – Your pathway to work and migration
After graduation, international students may be eligible to:
- Apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) for 2–4 years of post-study work
- Meet criteria for skilled migration visas (subclass 189 or 190)
The Student Visa is more than just a study permit—it marks the beginning of your future career and migration opportunities in Australia.
>> Are you preparing your Australian Student Visa application and need expert support? Get in touch with NextGem today. Our experienced team will guide you through every step—from assessing your eligibility to completing a strong application—so you can confidently begin your journey to study and thrive in Australia.