Australian Student Visa Application Guideline

Australia, known for its world-class education system, diverse culture, and high quality of life, attracts thousands of international students every year. To study in Australia, one must secure a student visa.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Australian student visa application process, ensuring applicants are well-prepared to embark on their educational journey.

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows international students to study full-time at an accredited educational institution in Australia. This visa enables students to stay in Australia for up to five years, depending on the length of their course.

Eligibility Criteria for the Australian Student Visa

To qualify for an Australian Student Visa (subclass 500), applicants must meet several eligibility requirements:

1. Enrolment in a Registered Course: Applicants must be enrolled in a full-time course at an Australian education provider registered with the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). The course should be registered for student visa purposes.
2. Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement: Applicants must demonstrate that they are a genuine temporary entrant, meaning that the primary purpose of their stay in Australia is to study. This involves showing intent to return to their home country upon completing their studies.
3. English Language Proficiency: Depending on the course and education provider, proof of English language proficiency may be required. This can be demonstrated through standardized tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE, or by meeting specific criteria set by the education provider.
4. Financial Requirements: Applicants must show evidence of sufficient funds to cover their tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs. This may involve providing bank statements, financial statements, or affidavits of support.
5. Health and Character Requirements: Health and character checks are mandatory. Applicants may need to undergo medical examinations and provide police clearance certificates to prove they meet the health and character standards required by Australian immigration authorities.

Required Documentation for the Australian Student Visa Application

When applying for an Australian Student Visa, applicants need to provide several key documents:

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): A CoE is issued by the education provider once an applicant has been accepted into a registered course. It confirms the details of the course and is essential for the visa application.
• Proof of Identity: Valid passport, birth certificate, or other identification documents.
• Genuine Temporary Entrant Statement: A personal statement explaining the applicant’s intention to study in Australia and their plans after completing their course.
• Proof of English Language Proficiency: Results from recognized English language tests or evidence of meeting the education provider’s language requirements.
• Financial Evidence: Bank statements, financial statements, or affidavits of support demonstrating sufficient funds.
• Health and Character Documents: Medical examination results and police clearance certificates as required.
• Visa Application Form: Completed Form 157A, the application form for an Australian Student Visa.

Application Process

The application process for the Student Visa (Subclass 500) involves several steps:

1. Research and Prepare: Begin by researching courses and institutions. Ensure the chosen institution is CRICOS-registered (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students).
2. Apply for a Course: Submit an application to the chosen educational institution. Upon acceptance, the institution will issue a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE).
3. Gather Documents: Prepare the necessary documents as listed in the requirements above.
4. Create an ImmiAccount: Register for an ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website to manage the visa application online.
5. Complete the Visa Application: Fill out the online visa application form (Form 157A) and upload the required documents.
6. Pay the Visa Application Fee: The current fee for the Student Visa (Subclass 500) is AUD 620, although this may vary.
7. Biometrics and Health Check: Depending on the applicant’s country of residence, biometrics and a health examination may be required.
8. Attend an Interview: Some applicants may be asked to attend an interview at the Australian consulate or embassy.
9. Wait for the Decision: Processing times vary, but most applications are processed within 4 to 12 weeks. Applicants can track their application status through the ImmiAccount.

Financial Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate they have enough funds to support themselves while studying in Australia. This includes:

• Living Costs: AUD 21,041 per year for the main applicant.
• School Fees: If applicable, AUD 8,296 per year for each school-age dependent.
• Travel Costs: Return airfare to Australia.

Acceptable evidence includes bank statements, financial institution statements, or a letter of support from a sponsor.

English Language Proficiency

Proof of English language proficiency is mandatory unless exempted. Accepted tests and required scores are:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 5.5.
• TOEFL iBT: Total score of 46.
• PTE Academic: Overall score of 42.
• Cambridge English Advanced (CAE): Score of 162.

Applicants from certain countries or with specific qualifications may be exempt from this requirement.

Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement

The GTE requirement ensures that the student visa program is used as intended and not for maintaining ongoing residency in Australia. Applicants must submit a written statement addressing:

• Intentions: Reasons for choosing the course and institution, and future plans after completing the studies.
• Personal Circumstances: Ties to their home country, economic situation, and potential employment opportunities in their home country.

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

International students must have OSHC for the duration of their stay in Australia. OSHC covers medical and hospital care costs and can be arranged through the educational institution or directly with an approved health insurance provider.

Visa Conditions

Once granted, the Student Visa (Subclass 500) comes with specific conditions, including:

• Course Enrollment: Maintain enrollment in a registered course and achieve satisfactory course progress.
• Work Limitations: Students can work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the course and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks.
• Health Insurance: Maintain OSHC throughout the stay in Australia.
• Address Update: Notify the educational institution and the Department of Home Affairs of any change of address within seven days.

What happens next after your visa is granted?

Upon receiving the student visa, applicants can now start preparing for their arrival by making arrangements for accommodation, familiarizing themselves with Australian customs and laws, and ensuring they have all necessary documents.

Participate in the orientation program provided by the educational institution to ease the transition into student life in Australia and adhere to the visa conditions to avoid any issues during their stay.