Apply for Australian Student Visa – Visa Documents Requirements, Fees
This blog will help you apply for an Australian Student Visa. Discover the necessary documents and understand the fees involved. Follow these guidelines for a successful application.
Applying for an Australian student visa? Here’s help!
Pursuing your higher education in Australia is an exciting prospect. However, this process of applying for an Australian student visa can be daunting. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the whole process, requirements, and frequently asked questions to help you navigate the application process smoothly.
Student visa
The Student visa is the primary visa category for international students who are willing to study in Australia. Consequently, this visa allows you to stay in Australia temporarily to undertake a full-time course of study at an approved institution.
Scope of your subclass 500 visa
The Student visa (subclass 500) covers a wide range of educational programs, including:
– Higher education courses like bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees
– Vocational education and training (VET) courses
– Courses leading to a qualifying registration in certain occupations
– Non-award foundation courses
– English language courses
– Secondary school studies
Furthermore, this visa allows you to work part-time while studying, depending on the specific conditions outlined by the Australian government.
Basic checks before you apply for an Australian student visa
Before diving into the application process, ensure that you meet the following basic requirements:
1. Enrolment in a registered course:
You must have received an offer letter or Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an approved educational institution in Australia.
2. Sufficient funds:
You need to demonstrate that you have enough funds to help you in tuition fees, living costs, and travel expenses within the time duration of your stay in Australia.
3. English language proficiency:
You may need to provide evidence of your English language skills, such as an IELTS or TOEFL score, depending on your course requirements.
4. Health requirements:
You must have the health as well as the character requirements set by the Australian government.
Do read: Best Cities To Study In Australia In 2024
Requirements for an Australian student visa
To apply for an Australian student visa, you’ll need to provide the following documents:
1. Completed visa application form
2. Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your educational institution
3. Proof of sufficient funds (e.g., bank statements, sponsorship letters)
4. English language proficiency test results (if applicable)
5. Health and character certificates (e.g., police clearance, medical examination)
6. Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
7. Valid passport and recent passport-sized photographs
Document Requirements for Australian Student Visa
Document |
Description |
| Completed visa application form | Accurately filled out with personal details and course information |
| Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) | Issued by your Australian educational institution |
| Proof of sufficient funds | Bank statements, sponsorship letters, or other financial evidence |
| English language test results | IELTS, TOEFL, or other accepted test scores (if required) |
| Health and character certificates | Police clearance, medical examination results |
| Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement | Statement explaining your reasons for studying in Australia and your plans |
| Valid passport and photographs | Passport with at least six months validity and recent passport-sized photos |
Applying for your Australian student visa online
The Australian government encourages online applications for Australian student visas through the Department of Home Affairs’ ImmiAccount portal. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Create an ImmiAccount or log in to your existing account.
2. Select the “Apply for a Student visa” option.
3. Complete the online application form.
4. Upload all required documents in the specified format.
5. Review your application and make the visa application payment.
6. Submit your application
7. Wait for the processing time.
Student Visa Application Fees
Visa Subclass |
Primary Applicant Fee |
Additional Applicant Fee (per person) |
| Student visa (subclass 500) | AUD 620 | AUD 500 |
Note: Visa application fees are subject to change. Therefore, always refer to the official website for the latest fee structure.
English language requirements for Australian student visa
Depending on your course and educational institution, you may need to provide evidence of your English language proficiency. Consequently, the most commonly accepted tests are:
– IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
– PTE (Pearson Test of English)
– TOEFL(Test of English as a Foreign Language)
– CAE (Cambridge English: Advanced)
Your institution will specify the minimum score requirements for your course. Additionally, you may need to meet specific English language requirements.
Make sure your Australian student visa remains valid
Once your Australian student visa is granted, it’s essential to maintain its validity throughout your stay in Australia. Here are some key points to remember:
– Comply with the visa conditions, such as maintaining enrolment in your course and meeting attendance requirements.
– Renew your visa before it expires if you plan to continue your studies.
– Inform the Department of Home Affairs of any changes in your circumstances, such as a change of address or course.
– Maintain sufficient funds to cover your living expenses and tuition fees.
– Avoid working beyond the approved number of hours per week (if applicable).
Failure to comply with these conditions may result in the cancellation of your visa.
Also read: After 12th Arts Courses List in Australia: Study Options & Requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How much money do I need to show for an Australian student visa?
The amount of money you need to show varies depending on your course duration and living costs. Generally, you’ll need to explain that you have enough funds to pay up your tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs for yourself and any accompanying family members. The Australian government provides guidelines on the minimum financial requirements for an Australian student visa.
Q2. How long does it take to get an Australian student visa?
Processing times for Australian student visas can vary, but typically, it takes between 4 to 8 weeks for a complete application. However, during peak periods, the processing time may be longer. Additionally, the processing time may be influenced by the completeness of your application and the supporting documents provided.
Q3. What type of health insurance do I need for an Australian student visa?
International students in Australia should have an Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the time period of their stay. This insurance policy covers basic medical and hospital care expenses. Consequently, you’ll need to provide evidence of OSHC when applying for an Australian student visa.
Q4. Can I change my course or educational institution after I have been granted an Australian student visa?
Yes, you can change your course as well as institution after obtaining your Australian visa. However, you’ll need to apply for a new Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your new institution and notify the Department of Home Affairs about the change. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of your Australian student visa.
Q5. Could I apply for permanent residency in Australia after studying on an Australian student visa?
Yes, you can apply for permanent residency in Australia after completing your studies on an Australian student visa. However, you’ll need to get the eligibility criteria for your preferred visa category, such as the Skilled Migration program or Employer-Sponsored visas. Furthermore, your eligibility may be influenced by factors such as your academic performance, work experience, and English language proficiency.
By following this comprehensive guide and addressing the frequently asked questions, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the Australian student visa application process smoothly. Remember to plan, gather all the required documents, as well as submit your application well in a bit advance to ensure a smooth transition to your studies in Australia.
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