Student Visa (Subclass 500) – Your Guide to Studying in Australia
The Student Visa (subclass 500) allows international students to undertake full-time education and training in Australia. This visa permits students to stay for the duration of their course and offers work rights under certain conditions. Below is an in-depth look at the requirements, process, and services associated with the Student Visa (subclass 500).
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Key Requirements for the Student Visa
Enrolment and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
To apply for a Student Visa, you must be enrolled in a full-time course at an Australian education provider and obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).pibus leo.
Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement
The GTE requirement ensures applicants intend to stay in Australia temporarily for educational purposes. To satisfy this criterion, you must provide:
- A statement of purpose outlining your intent to study and return home after your course.
- Evidence of economic ties in your home country, such as financial assets, business ownership, or properties.
- Personal and social ties, like family and community connections.
- Past academic and work experience, including proof of employment for the past 12 months or a letter indicating future job prospects upon return.
- Supporting documents showing your need for skill improvement or career development.
Student Visa English Language Requirements
To apply for a Student Visa, you may need to demonstrate your English language proficiency. This can be done by:
- Providing evidence of achieving the required test score in an approved English language test, or
- Demonstrating eligibility for an exemption.
The Department may request proof of your English language skills at any stage of your visa application process, even if the initial requirements indicate otherwise. Use the Document Checklist Tool to confirm the evidence you need to provide.
Approved English Language Test Providers and Minimum Scores
The table below outlines the approved English language tests, minimum scores, and scores required when accompanied by ELICOS or other eligible programs:
| Test Provider | Minimum Score | With 10 Weeks of ELICOS/Eligible Pathway | With 20 Weeks of ELICOS |
|---|---|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.0 | 5.5 | 5.0 |
| TOEFL iBT | 64 | 46 | 35 |
| Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) | 169 | 162 | 154 |
| Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE) | 50 | 42 | 36 |
| Occupational English Test (OET) | B for each test | B for each test | B for each test |
Notes
- For packaged courses (e.g., ELICOS + Bachelor programs), ELICOS durations of at least 10 weeks or 20 weeks must meet the corresponding minimum scores.
- For example:
- A score of 5.5 in IELTS is required with a minimum of 10 weeks of ELICOS.
- A score of 5.0 in IELTS is required with 20 weeks of ELICOS.
Proof of Financial Capacity for Student Visa
When applying for a Student Visa, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your living expenses, tuition, travel, and other related costs for the duration of your stay in Australia. Below are the requirements and options for providing evidence of financial capacity.
Options for Demonstrating Financial Capacity
You can prove your financial capacity through one of the following:
- Deposits: Provide evidence of money deposited in a financial institution.
- Loans: Submit proof of a government or financial institution loan.
- Scholarships: Show documentation for scholarships or similar financial support.
- Annual Income: Demonstrate that your parents or partner have a personal annual income of:
- AUD87,856 for a single applicant.
- AUD102,500 if family members are included.
Breakdown of Financial Requirements
| Expense Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Living Costs (12 months) | AUD29,710 for students, AUD10,394 for partners, AUD4,449 per child. |
| Course Fees | First 12 months’ course fees (or pro-rata for shorter courses). Deduct any prepaid fees. |
| Schooling Costs | AUD13,502 per year for each school-age child (exceptions apply for certain PhD and scholarship students). |
| Travel Costs | AUD2,000 if applying from outside Australia (AUD3,000 for West Africa, AUD2,500 for East/Southern Africa). |
How to Calculate Total Funds Required
- Living Costs: Multiply the applicable living costs by the duration of your stay (up to 12 months).
- Course Fees: Calculate fees for the first 12 months or pro-rata if the course is shorter. Deduct any amounts already paid.
- Schooling Costs: Include schooling costs for each school-age child.
- Travel Costs: Add the estimated travel cost based on your location.
Example Calculation
- Student living costs (12 months): AUD29,710
- Course fees (12 months): AUD20,000 (with AUD5,000 already paid) = AUD15,000
- Partner living costs: AUD10,394
- Travel costs: AUD2,000
Total Required Funds: AUD57,104
Genuine Access to Funds
- If you provide evidence of financial support, you must demonstrate that you have genuine access to these funds. Include:
- Relationship proof: Evidence of your relationship with the sponsor.
- Source of deposits: Documentation explaining the source of funds.
- Loan evidence: Details of loan terms, disbursement schedules, and proof of payout.
Health Insurance
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the entire duration of your stay. This ensures you have adequate health coverage while studying.
Health and Character Checks
Applicants must undergo medical examinations and provide an Australian Federal Police (AFP) check as part of the visa process.
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Benefits of the Student Visa (Subclass 500)
The Student Visa (Subclass 500) offers international students the opportunity to:
Pursue Full-Time Studies
Enroll in registered courses across various Australian educational institutions.
Work While Studying
Engage in part-time employment, allowing up to 48 hours per fortnight during course sessions, and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks.
Bring Family Members
Include eligible family members in your visa application, enabling them to accompany you during your studies.
Travel Flexibility
Enjoy the freedom to travel in and out of Australia throughout the visa’s validity period.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Applying for the Student Visa (Subclass 500) involves several key steps:
Choose a Course and Institution
Select a CRICOS-registered course and obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
Gather Necessary Documents
Prepare required documents, including proof of enrollment, financial capacity, English proficiency, health insurance, and character assessments.
Submit Online Application
Create an ImmiAccount and complete the online visa application form, ensuring all information is accurate and complete.
Pay the Visa Fee
The application fee for the Student Visa (Subclass 500) is AUD 630.
Attend Health Examinations
Undergo required medical examinations as part of the visa process if required.
Await Visa Decision
Monitor your application status through your ImmiAccount until a decision is made.
Application Process
Obtain a CoE by enrolling in a registered full-time course at an Australian education provider. Compile all required documents, including evidence of financial capacity, proof of English proficiency, GTE statement, health insurance, and police checks. Submit your visa application online through ImmiAccount, ensuring all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays.
Work Rights While Studying
Students can work up to 40 hours per fortnight while their course is in session and unlimited hours during course breaks. Doctoral and research master’s students can work unlimited hours once their course commences. Work rights for dependents may vary based on the main applicant’s course level.
Packaged Courses
Multiple courses can be combined in a single visa application, provided there is a clear progression from one course to the next. Each course must have a CoE.
Post-Study Work Opportunities
Upon completing your studies, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), allowing you to:
Gain Work Experience
Work in Australia temporarily to enhance your professional skills.
Pathway to Permanent Residency
Utilize the work experience gained to meet criteria for permanent residency visas.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During the Application
To increase the likelihood of a successful visa application, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Incomplete Documentation: Ensure all required documents are provided and accurately completed.
- Insufficient Financial Evidence: Demonstrate adequate funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
- Neglecting the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement: Provide a compelling statement outlining your intent to study temporarily in Australia.
- Lack of English Proficiency Proof: Submit valid English language test results meeting the required scores.
- Delaying Health Insurance Purchase: Obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your stay.
Start Your Journey to Australia with Confidence
Are you ready to begin your academic journey in Australia? Securing a student visa is the first step toward achieving your dreams of studying at world-class institutions in one of the most sought-after destinations for international students.
At Sleek Migration, we simplify the process for you. Through our collaboration with trusted business partners Studyizy and Nexa Migration, we can:
- Assist you in getting admission to reputable colleges and universities in Australia.
- Provide guidance on meeting the student visa requirements, including English proficiency and proof of financial capacity.
- Ensure your application is complete, accurate, and stands out.
Don’t let the complexities of the process hold you back. Take the next step in your education and future career today!
Contact us now to learn how we can make your dream of studying in Australia a reality. Let’s work together to open the doors to your success!
FAQs
What is the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement?
The GTE requirement ensures that you genuinely intend to stay in Australia temporarily for the purpose of study and return to your home country afterward. This is demonstrated through a statement of purpose, evidence of financial stability, and ties to your home country.
How much money do I need to show for my Student Visa?
You need to show a minimum of AUD 24,505 for your living expenses, AUD 7,860 for a partner, and AUD 3,720 for each child for one year, in addition to tuition fees and travel costs.
Can I work on a Student Visa?
Yes, students can work up to 40 hours per fortnight while their course is in session and unlimited hours during course breaks. Doctoral and research master’s students have no work hour limitations.
What happens if my course is deferred?
You may work unlimited hours if your course is officially deferred, but you must inform the Department of Home Affairs.
Do I need health insurance?
Yes, maintaining OSHC for the entire duration of your stay is mandatory.
