Studying in Australia is a dream for thousands of international students every year. With world-class universities, diverse culture, and excellent post-study opportunities, it’s no wonder Australia is one of the top study destinations.
To begin your journey, you’ll need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). In this updated 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Australian student visa application process—and how Immigrad can support you at every step.
What is Student Visa Subclass 500?
The Subclass 500 visa allows international students to live, study, and work (part-time) in Australia while enrolled in a full-time course. With this visa, you can:
- Stay in Australia for up to 5 years, depending on your course length.
- Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during breaks.
- Bring eligible family members with you.
- Access Australia’s healthcare system (Medicare) if eligible.
Eligibility Criteria
Before starting your Subclass 500 application, make sure you meet the eligibility requirements:
- Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE): You must have an offer letter and CoE from a CRICOS-registered institution.
- Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE): You must show that your main purpose is study, not permanent migration.
- Financial Capacity: You need to prove you can cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
- English Proficiency: Provide test results such as IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL.
- Health & Character Requirements: Medical checks and police clearance may be required.
Required Documents
Here’s a checklist of essential documents for your Australian student visa 2025 application:
- Valid passport
- Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE)
- English proficiency test results (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL)
- Proof of financial capacity (bank statements, scholarship letters, sponsor documents)
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Health and character documents
(Tip: Immigrad can help you prepare and review all these documents so your application is complete and error-free.)
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Student Visa Australia
Follow this simple step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth application:
Step 1: Apply to a CRICOS-registered institution
Choose your course and receive a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE).
Step 2: Create an ImmiAccount
Register on the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs portal.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
Prepare all supporting documents, including proof of funds, English test results, and health insurance.
Step 4: Submit Subclass 500 Application
Log in to ImmiAccount and complete the online visa form. Attach documents and pay the application fee.
Step 5: Biometrics & Health Checks
Depending on your country, you may need to provide biometrics and undergo medical checks.
Step 6: Wait for Visa Decision
Monitor your ImmiAccount for updates. You may be asked for additional information.
(With Immigrad’s expert consultants, you can avoid mistakes and handle any requests from the visa office smoothly.)
Processing Times & Fees
- Application Fee (2025): AUD 710 (approx.)
- Processing Time: Usually 1–4 months, depending on the applicant’s situation.
👉 Pro Tip: Apply at least 3–6 months before your course start date. Immigrad ensures your timeline stays on track.
Mistakes to Avoid
Many applications are delayed or refused due to avoidable mistakes. Here are the most common ones:
❌ Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents
❌ Not meeting financial proof requirements
❌ Weak Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
❌ Applying too late before the course starts
❌ Ignoring health insurance (OSHC) requirements
(Immigrad specializes in preparing strong applications, especially for GTE statements, which are often a deciding factor.)
Why Choose Immigrad for Your Student Visa Application?
At Immigrad, we understand that applying for an Australian student visa can feel overwhelming. Our migration experts simplify the process by:
- Helping you choose the right course and institution
- Preparing a strong Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
- Reviewing and organizing all your documents
- Guiding you through ImmiAccount and online submissions
- Providing updates and support until your visa is approved
With Immigrad, you can focus on your study goals while we handle the paperwork.
Final Thoughts
Applying for an Australian student visa in 2025 doesn’t have to be stressful. By following the right steps and working with trusted consultants like Immigrad, you can maximize your chances of success. The Subclass 500 visa opens doors to world-class education, career growth, and a life-changing experience in Australia.
📞 Need help applying?
Contact Immigrad today and let our experts guide you to success.
Key facts, checked 22 September 2026
Some figures earlier in this article date from 2025. The current figures published by the Department of Home Affairs, checked on 22 September 2026, are below and should be relied on instead.
- Visa application charge: from AUD2,500 for the main applicant. Lower charges apply in limited circumstances, including for eligible Pacific Island and Timor-Leste citizens, eligible ASEAN citizens, and ELICOS and Non-Award applicants.
- Stay: up to 6 years, in line with your enrolment.
- Work rights: up to 48 hours a fortnight when your course of study or training is in session.
- Funds — 12-month living costs: AUD29,710 for the student, AUD10,394 for a partner, AUD4,449 for each child, plus the first 12 months of course fees and travel costs.
- Income alternative: AUD87,856 for a single applicant, or AUD102,500 where family members are included, earned in the 12 months before you apply.
- Processing times: the Department publishes indicative times in its visa processing time guide. They vary by sector and country and no agent can predict or shorten them.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an Australian student visa cost in 2026?
The Department of Home Affairs lists the subclass 500 Student visa from AUD2,500 for the main applicant, with concessions in limited circumstances. Family members applying with you attract additional charges. Budget separately for health cover, health examinations, English testing and document costs. Confirm the charge on the Department’s visa listing on the day you lodge.
How much money do I need to show for a student visa?
You must show funds for 12 months of living costs — AUD29,710 for yourself, AUD10,394 for a partner and AUD4,449 for each child — plus the first 12 months of course fees and your travel costs. Alternatively you can show annual income of AUD87,856, or AUD102,500 if family members are included.
How many hours can a student visa holder work in Australia?
Up to 48 hours a fortnight while your course of study or training is in session. There is generally no limit during scheduled course breaks. Breaching the work condition can put your visa at risk, so track your hours across each fortnight rather than each week.
How long does a subclass 500 student visa last?
Up to six years, granted in line with your enrolment. Most students receive a visa covering their course plus a short additional period. If your course finishes later than expected, you generally need to apply for a further visa before your current one expires.
What is the genuine student requirement?
Being a genuine student is a separate criterion the Department assesses, alongside enrolment evidence, English language ability, adequate health insurance, sufficient funds, health, character and the Australian values statement. Your written response should explain your circumstances, your course choice and your plans in your own words rather than in template language.
Can I use a student visa as a pathway to permanent residence?
Study can support a later skilled or employer-sponsored application, but a student visa does not lead to permanent residence by itself, and no course guarantees it. Any later application is assessed on its own criteria, including skills assessment, English and, for employer-sponsored routes, a sponsoring employer.
Related Immigrad guides
- Student visa refusal reasons and how to avoid them
- Cost of living in Australia for students
- Courses that can support a permanent residence pathway
- Scholarships and grants for international students
This page is general information only. It is not personal migration advice and it does not take your circumstances into account. Visa criteria, charges and thresholds change. Complex cases should be discussed with a registered migration agent. Immigrad is operated by Oceans Consultancy Pty Ltd; Gaurav Duggal, MARN 1805710. Information checked against the Department of Home Affairs on 22 September 2026.