Australia is one of the most popular study destinations, offering world-class education, cultural diversity, and exciting post-study opportunities. The problem now is how to get an Australian Student Visa.
To study in Australia, you will need to obtain an Australian student visa, specifically the Student Visa (Subclass 500).
This guide covers everything you need to know on How to get an Australian Student Visa, from eligibility requirements to the application process.
Key Australian Student Visa Requirements
How to get an Australian Student Visa: Before applying for an Australian student visa, ensure you meet the following requirements:
- Genuine Student (GS) Requirement
- Financial Requirements
- English Proficiency Requirements
- Health and Character Requirements
Let’s break each of these down and explain the application process.
1. Genuine Student (GS) Requirement
The Genuine Student (GS) requirement ensures that you have a legitimate intention to stay in Australia for study purposes. To demonstrate this, you’ll need to provide detailed information on:
- Current Circumstances: Include details about your family, community ties, employment status, and economic situation.
- Course Relevance: Explain why you want to pursue this particular course at this institution in Australia.
- Future Benefits: Clarify how completing this course will benefit your future career or personal development.
2. Financial Requirements
You must show proof of sufficient funds to cover:
- Tuition Fees
- Living Costs (approximately AUD $21,041 per year)
- Travel Expenses (airfare)
If a family member is accompanying you, you’ll need to demonstrate additional funds to support them.
3. English Proficiency Requirements
If you’re not from an English-speaking country, you must provide results from an approved English proficiency test like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. The score requirements may vary depending on your course and institution.
- Exemptions: Some students, particularly those from English-speaking countries like the UK, USA, or Canada, may be exempt from this requirement.
4. Health and Character Requirements
You must meet Australia’s health and character standards, which may require:
- Health Examinations: Medical check-ups to ensure you’re in good health.
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): You are required to purchase OSHC to cover medical and hospital expenses during your stay. Some exceptions apply for students from Belgium, Sweden, and Norway.
- Character Check: A criminal record check may be required to ensure you meet the character requirements.
Applying for an Australian Student Visa
Once you meet the above requirements, follow these steps to apply for your visa.
Step 1: Get a Confirmation of Enrolment (COE)
Before applying, you’ll need a Confirmation of Enrolment (COE) or a Letter of Offer from an institution registered under the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). You’ll receive an online code, which must be entered during your visa application.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
The Department of Home Affairs provides a document checklist for your visa application, but here are the commonly required documents:
- Completed Student Visa (Subclass 500) application form
- COE or Letter of Offer from your institution
- Proof of sufficient funds
- English proficiency test results
- Health insurance cover (OSHC)
- Passport biodata page
- Criminal record check
- Recent passport-sized photos
Missing documents may delay or even result in a visa refusal, so ensure everything is complete.
Step 3: Submit Your Application Online
Apply for the Student Visa (Subclass 500) online through the ImmiAccount portal on the Department of Home Affairs website. The application fee can be estimated using the visa pricing estimator on the same site.
Step 4: Attend an Interview (If Required)
In some cases, you may be required to attend an interview or provide additional information. Always respond promptly to any such requests to avoid delays.
Post-Visa Approval: What to Do Next
When Can You Enter Australia?
You can enter Australia up to 90 days before your course starts. However, within seven days of your arrival, you must inform your education provider of your Australian residential address and notify them of any changes during your stay.
Work Restrictions
Students are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the course session. There are no work limits during scheduled course breaks.
Visa Validity and Extensions
- If your course lasts longer than 10 months and ends at the end of the academic year (December), your visa will be valid until 15 March of the following year.
- For courses ending between January and October, your visa will typically be valid for two months after course completion.
In some cases, it’s possible to apply for a further visa at the end of your course if you wish to stay longer for additional study or work.
Responsibilities During Your Stay
Once your student visa is granted, you must fulfill the following obligations:
- Stay enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course.
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress.
- Attend classes regularly.
- Maintain valid OSHC insurance.
Failure to comply with these conditions can result in the cancellation of your visa.
Conclusion
Obtaining an Australian student visa may seem like a complex process, but by following these steps on how to get an Australian Student Visa and ensuring all requirements are met, you can secure your visa and begin your exciting study adventure in Australia.
Remember to always stay updated with any changes in visa regulations by checking the Department of Home Affairs website regularly.
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