Student Visa
Subclass 500
The Subclass 500 Student Visa allows international students to live, study, and work in Australia while enrolled in a registered full-time course at an approved Australian educational institution.
It is designed for applicants who:
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Wish to study in Australia for more than 3 months
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Have been accepted into a registered course (CRICOS-listed)
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Meet health, character, and financial requirements
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Genuinely intend to stay in Australia temporarily for study purposes (Genuine Temporary Entrant – GTE)
This visa can be applied for either inside or outside Australia, depending on the applicant’s situation.
Main Requirements
Hold a Confirmation of Enrolment (COE) from a CRICOS-registered institution
Meet Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirements
Demonstrate sufficient financial capacity for tuition, travel, and living costs
Meet English language requirements (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, PTE)
Hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and satisfy required health and character checks
Be of appropriate age if applying for school-level courses
Processing Times
Processing times vary depending on the level of assessment, the type of education provider, and whether all documents are provided.
Higher Education / University
1 – 3 months
Vocational Education and Training (VET)
2 – 4 months
School Sector
2 – 3 months
Costs & Fees
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Main applicant (online application)
AUD 2000
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Additional applicant (18+ years)
AUD 1225
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Additional applicant (under 18)
AUD 400
Additional costs may include health checks, biometrics, and English tests such as IELTS or PTE Academic.
Key Benefits
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Allows you to live, study, and work in Australia while enrolled in a full-time course
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Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study terms and unlimited hours during official breaks
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Include eligible family members (partner and dependent children)
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Access to Australia’s high-quality education system and student support services
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Pathway to post-study work visas such as the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
Process
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Apply for and receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (COE) from an Australian institution.
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Prepare your visa documents – passport, GTE statement, COE, financial and English evidence, OSHC proof.
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Submit your application online via ImmiAccount.
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Complete biometrics, health, and character checks if required.
Common Scenarios & Q&A
01. What is the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement?
The GTE requirement ensures that you genuinely intend to stay in Australia temporarily for study, not permanent migration. You must submit a written statement explaining your study goals, ties to your home country, and future plans.
02. Can I work on a Visitor Visa?
Yes. You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during course breaks.
03. Can my family members join me?
Yes. You can include your partner and dependent children in your visa application. They can live, study, or work in Australia (with conditions).
04. Do I need health insurance?
Yes. All student visa holders must maintain valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of their stay.
05. How do I show I have enough funds?
Provide recent bank statements, payslips, tax documents, or evidence of sponsorship showing you can cover flights, accommodation, and daily expenses.
