Student Visa (subclass 500)

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows international students to live and study full-time at an accredited Australian educational institution. Whether you’re pursuing a university degree, vocational training, or an English language course, this visa provides access to world-class education and the opportunity to work part-time while studying.

Key Benefits of the Student Visa 500

• Study at Leading Institutions
  Enrol in CRICOS-registered courses including higher education, VET, ELICOS, primary/secondary school, and postgraduate research
• Work While Studying
  Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during course breaks
• Bring Your Family
  Include your partner and dependent children in your visa application
• Stay for the Duration of Your Course
  Visa validity aligns with your course length, up to 5 years
• Multiple Entry
  Travel in and out of Australia freely while your visa is valid
• Pathway to Graduate and PR Visas
  Eligible students may transition to the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) or skilled migration pathways

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Subclass 500 Student Visa, you must meet the following requirements:

Enrolment in a Registered Course

• You must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered institution

Genuine Student Requirement (GSR)

• You must demonstrate that your intention to study in Australia is genuine and temporary.

Financial Capacity

• Show evidence of funds to cover:
  • Tuition fees
  • Living expenses (minimum AUD $24,505–$29,710/year depending on your situation)
  • Travel costs

English Language Proficiency

• Provide test scores from IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or equivalent unless exempt

Health & Character Requirements

• Complete a medical examination and provide a police clearance certificate

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

• Maintain valid OSHC for the entire duration of your stay.

Visa Conditions

Once granted, the Student Visa comes with specific conditions:

• Maintain Enrolment
  Stay enrolled in a full-time CRICOS-registered course
• Meet Academic Progress
  Maintain satisfactory attendance and course progression
• Work Limitations
  Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods. Unlimited work is allowed during official breaks
• Health Insurance
  Maintain OSHC throughout your stay
• Notify Address Changes
  Inform your education provider of your residential address within 7 days of arrival
• No Overstay
  You must leave Australia or apply for another visa before your current visa expires

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)