Understanding the Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500)
The Student visa (Subclass 500) allows eligible international students to study full‑time in Australia in a CRICOS‑registered course. Key settings include the Genuine Student (GS) requirement, English proficiency, sufficient funds, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and compliance with visa conditions during your stay.
Policy has shifted in recent years. The GS requirement replaced the GTE focus, English score thresholds have risen, and work rights have reverted to capped hours during study periods. These settings are reviewed periodically, so always check current requirements before you apply.
- Genuine Student (GS): explain your study purpose, course relevance, ties to home country, and post‑study intent to comply with your visa.
- English: scores vary by course level and provider; higher thresholds may apply for packaged courses and for Temporary Graduate (485) pathways.
- Financial capacity: show funds for tuition, living costs and travel; sources must be credible and verifiable.
- OSHC: mandatory for you and accompanying family, maintained for your entire stay.
- Work rights: generally up to 48 hours per fortnight while class is in session; unlimited hours in scheduled breaks.
- Dependants: partner and eligible children can be included, with conditions varying by your course and provider.
Important: Australian immigration settings change. This page provides general information only and is not legal advice.
Eligibility and quick checklist
Minimum eligibility
- Offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for a CRICOS‑registered full‑time course
- Meets the Genuine Student (GS) requirement
- Meets English requirements for the course
- Evidence of sufficient funds for tuition, living expenses and travel
- OSHC arranged for the visa period
- Health and character requirements satisfied
- No visa bars and compliant history with Australian visas
Fast pre‑assessment checklist
- Course aligns with your study history or career plan
- Clear statement addressing GS factors (study reason, ties, post‑study plan)
- Recent bank statements or acceptable financial evidence
- Valid English test results if required (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL etc.)
- Passport valid for the duration of study
- CV and academic transcripts
- Any previous visa refusals explained with evidence
Student visa costs in Australia
Budgeting accurately helps avoid delays and refusals. Actual amounts change periodically, but the following outline is a practical guide.
| Item | Typical amount (AUD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Department visa charge (Subclass 500) | from ~710 | Plus additional applicant charges for partner/children |
| OSHC | varies (e.g., 600–2,500+ per year) | Depends on duration, provider and family size |
| Medical exams | ~350–500 | Panel physician fees vary by location |
| Biometrics | ~85–100 | Collection centre fees |
| Police checks | varies (e.g., 42+ each) | Australian/overseas as requested |
| Translations & notarisation | varies | NAATI or equivalent where required |
| Tuition deposit | provider‑set | Often needed before CoE is issued |
| Professional fees | ~1,200–3,500+ | Migration agent or lawyer, depending on complexity |
Always confirm current fees in the Department’s fee calculator and your provider’s offer letter.
Documents you usually need
Providing clear, consistent evidence reduces processing time and refusal risk. Prepare and label files carefully.
- Passport bio page and national ID (if applicable)
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for each course in a package
- OSHC policy certificate matching visa dates
- English test results (if required by provider/sector)
- Financial capacity: bank statements, income evidence, sponsor letters, loan approvals
- Genuine Student (GS) statement with supporting evidence
- Academic transcripts, certificates and CV
- Work references or employment letters (if relevant)
- Health insurance, medicals and biometrics receipts when requested
- Marriage/birth certificates if including family members
Application process and typical timelines
| Stage | What usually happens | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Select course & provider | Choose a CRICOS‑registered full‑time course and receive your offer. | Ensure course relevance to your background or goals. |
| CoE & OSHC | Pay deposit to get the CoE; arrange OSHC for full visa period. | Names and dates must match your application. |
| ImmiAccount & forms | Create/log in and complete the online Subclass 500 application. | Answer truthfully; keep copies of all uploads. |
| Upload evidence | GS statement, financials, English, transcripts, identity. | Label files clearly; consistency matters. |
| Pay & lodge | Submit and pay the visa charge. | Lodgement date affects bridging visa if onshore. |
| Biometrics/health | Complete requests within the stated timeframe. | Delays here slow decisions. |
| Decision | Many cases finalise in 3–8 weeks; complex files can take longer. | Check conditions and report changes promptly. |
Onshore applicants may receive a bridging visa to remain lawfully while the application is processed. Conditions vary and must be checked in your grant notice.
Compare visa options for study and after study
Common pathways
- Student (Subclass 500): full‑time CRICOS courses; work limited during study terms
- Temporary Graduate (Subclass 485): post‑study work for eligible graduates
- Student Guardian (Subclass 590): eligible parents/guardians of under‑18 students
- Training (Subclass 407): workplace‑based occupational training (not general study)
- Visitor (Subclass 600): short courses up to 3 months (no extended study)
Which option fits your goal?
If your primary aim is a qualification in Australia, the Subclass 500 is standard. If you want post‑study work rights, plan your course and provider with the 485 criteria in mind. If you need to accompany a child, consider the 590. For skills development with an employer sponsor, check the 407.
Refusals, cancellations and AAT appeals
Common refusal reasons include insufficient financial evidence, weak GS statements, course mismatch with background, inadequate English evidence, inconsistent information, or not responding to requests on time. Cancellations can occur for non‑compliance with visa conditions (for example, enrolment or attendance issues).
- AAT review: Onshore applicants typically have a short timeframe (often 21 days—check your decision letter) to seek merits review at the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.
- Reapply strategy: In some cases, a stronger re‑application is faster than an appeal. This depends on evidence and deadlines.
- Bridging visa status: Understand your lawful stay and work conditions during review or re‑application.
- Cancellations: Sections 116 and 137J decisions require quick action; seek advice promptly.
Student visa FAQ
What visa do I need to study in Australia?
Most full‑time students apply for the Subclass 500. Depending on your goals, the Training (407), Student Guardian (590) or Temporary Graduate (485) may be more suitable.
How much does an Australian student visa cost?
The Department charge is typically from AUD 710 for the main applicant, plus additional applicant charges for each family member. Add OSHC, medicals, biometrics, police checks, translations and any professional fees. Confirm current fees before you apply.
How long does a student visa take?
Many straightforward cases finish in 3–8 weeks, but timelines vary with sector, risk level and whether further information is requested.
What is the GS requirement?
The Genuine Student requirement checks that you are a genuine applicant for study who can meet course, financial and visa obligations. Your statement should address your study rationale, course relevance, personal circumstances and compliance with conditions.
Can I work while studying?
Generally up to 48 hours per fortnight in session and unlimited during scheduled breaks. Dependants’ work rights depend on the primary student’s course level.
Need help with a student visa?
Use the form below for free help to check eligibility, estimate costs and get connected with an Australian migration lawyer near you.