Australian Student Visa – Process, Fees, Time & More

Ready to study in Australia? One of the first things you’ll need to do is apply for an Australian Student Visa. This visa gives you the legal right to live and study in Australia while you pursue your academic goals. Being aware of the application process, the costs, and the time it takes is important to avoid any surprises along the way.

So, what exactly is the Australian Student Visa?

It’s a legal permit that allows international students to study in Australia full-time, with the added benefit of work rights to support yourself while you study.

Let’s walk through the application steps, what you’ll need, and how to get your visa sorted quickly!

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Why Apply for an Australian Student Visa?

A student visa lets you stay in Australia legally while completing your education. It offers many benefits that make studying in Australia easier.

Key Benefits:

• Legal Stay: Stay for the entire duration of your course.
• Part-Time Work: Work up to 48 hours every two weeks while studying to help with expenses.
• Post-Study Stay: Apply for work visas to extend your stay after graduation.
• Family Inclusion: Some student visas allow dependents to stay with you.
• Health Insurance Coverage: The visa requires Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), ensuring you have access to healthcare.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Completing studies in Australia can open pathways to long-term visas or permanent residency options.
• Travel Flexibility: Enter and leave Australia multiple times during the visa period.

Process Overview:

• Apply for the visa before your course begins.
• Submit documents like your admission letter, proof of funds, and health insurance.
• Meet health and character requirements set by Australian authorities.

Recent Updates – Australian Student Visa 2025

Australia has announced important changes to its student visa rules starting January 1, 2025. These updates aim to strengthen the visa process and ensure students meet academic and financial requirements before arriving in Australia.

Key Changes for 2025:

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) Requirement:
  From January 1, 2025, student visa applicants must submit a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) at the time of application. Letters of Offer will no longer be accepted.
  • Not providing a CoE will make the application invalid.
  • This applies to both onshore and offshore applications.
  • Exceptions include Foreign Affairs, Defence, and secondary exchange students.
• Work Hour Limitations:
  • International students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods.
  • Unlimited work hours apply during semester breaks.
  • This change balances work experience with academic focus.
• Financial Requirements:
  • Proof of sufficient funds has increased to meet 75% of the national minimum wage.
  • Applicants must provide updated financial statements to show they can cover tuition, living expenses, and health insurance.
• Processing Times:
  • Faster visa processing for high-demand courses and priority applications.
  • Streamlined assessments for genuine students with complete documents.
• Fee Structure Update:
  • Student visa application fees have increased from AUD 710 to AUD 1,600 starting January 1, 2025.
  • This fee adjustment supports better student support services and faster processing.

Types of Australian Student Visas Available 

Australia offers different types of student visas depending on the course, duration, and purpose of stay. The Subclass 500 Student Visa is the most common, but other visa options are available for specific situations.

Visa Type	Purpose	Who Can Apply?
Subclass 500 – Student Visa	Allows full-time study in Australia.	International students enrolled in a registered course.
Subclass 590 – Student Guardian Visa	For guardians accompanying a minor student.	Parents or legal guardians of students under 18.
Subclass 485 – Temporary Graduate Visa	For graduates wanting to gain work experience in Australia.	International students who have completed their studies in Australia.
Subclass 407 – Training Visa	For occupational training and professional development.	Individuals participating in structured training programs.
Subclass 600 – Visitor Visa (Study Option)	For short-term study or language courses.	Short-term students or language course participants.

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Eligibility Criteria for an Australian Student Visa

To apply for an Australian student visa, you must meet certain requirements. These criteria ensure you are prepared for life and studies in Australia.

• Academic Requirements:
  • Must have an offer letter from a registered Australian institution.
  • Meet minimum educational qualifications based on your course.
• Language Proficiency:
  • Provide proof of English proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
  • Minimum scores vary based on the course and institution.
• Financial Requirements:
  • Show proof you can cover tuition fees, living costs, and return airfare.
  • The current financial requirement is aligned with 75% of the national minimum wage.
• Health and Character Requirements:
  • Must meet health standards and submit a health certificate.
  • Provide police clearance to ensure good character.
• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Statement:
  • Provide a statement explaining your study intentions.
  • Must prove your plan is temporary and focused on education, not migration.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for an Australian Student Visa

Step 1: Confirm CRICOS Enrollment

• Apply to a CRICOS-registered educational institution in Australia.
• Receive an unconditional offer letter from the institution.
• Accept the offer and pay your tuition fees.
• Obtain your Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCOE).

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

• Collect all necessary documents, including:
  • Valid passport.
  • eCOE (Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment).
  • Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE).
  • Proof of funds to cover tuition, living costs, and return travel.
  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
  • Health certificate and police clearance certificate.

Step 3: Create an ImmiAccount

• Visit the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
• Create an ImmiAccount for submitting your visa application.
• Fill out the student visa application form carefully.
• Declare all family members if they will accompany you or join later.

Step 4: Pay Visa Application Fees

• Ensure you have enough funds available for the visa fee payment.
• Pay the required visa application fee using your credit or debit card.
• Confirm the payment is processed in Australian dollars (AUD).

Step 5: Submit Your Application

• Double-check all details in your application.
• Upload all necessary documents as required.
• Submit your completed visa application online through your ImmiAccount.

Step 6: Attend Health and Biometric Checks

• Book a health check with an approved Australian Immigration panel physician.
• If requested, schedule a biometrics appointment.
• Complete both checks and submit the results through your ImmiAccount.

Step 7: Receive Your Visa Decision

• After processing, you will receive your visa result by email.
• If approved, you will receive an electronic visa grant notice.
• If refused, you will be informed of the reason. The visa fee is non-refundable in case of rejection.

Important Note:

• Make sure all information provided is accurate and honest.
• Keep your contact details updated in your ImmiAccount for any notifications.
• Double-check your eligibility and document requirements on the official Australian Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date information.

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Documents Required for an Australian Student Visa Application

To apply for an Australian student visa, you need to submit several important documents. Providing complete and accurate documents increases your chances of approval.

Document	Purpose	Special Requirements
Valid Passport	Proof of identity and nationality	Must be valid for the entire study duration
Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCOE)	Confirms course enrollment in a CRICOS-registered institution	Issued after course acceptance and fee payment
Academic Transcripts & Certificates	Proof of educational background	Certified copies with English translation if required
English Language Proficiency Test (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE)	Proof of English skills	Minimum score depends on the institution and course
Proof of Funds	Shows you can cover tuition, living costs, and travel	Must meet the current financial requirement set by DHA
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)	Ensures access to healthcare in Australia	Must cover the entire course duration
Health Certificate	Proof of medical fitness	Conducted by a panel-approved physician
Police Clearance Certificate	Proof of good character	Required for long-term courses and certain nationalities
Passport-Sized Photographs	For identification purposes	Recent, clear, and standard size

Special Documentation for Minors and Dependents:

• Minors: Birth certificate and parental consent for travel.
• Dependents: Proof of relationship (marriage or birth certificate) and financial support evidence.

Translation Requirement:
If your documents are not in English, you must provide a certified translation along with the original document.

Fees for an Australian Student Visa 

The cost of an Australian student visa includes the base application fee and possible additional charges depending on the applicant's age, dependents, and extra services required during the process.

Fee Type	Amount (AUD)	Who Pays?
Student Visa Application Fee	AUD 710	Primary applicant
Additional Applicant (Under 18)	AUD 175	Dependents under 18
Additional Applicant (Over 18)	AUD 530	Dependents over 18
Subsequent Temporary Application Charge	AUD 700	Applies for certain visa extensions
Health Check Fee	Varies (Approx. AUD 200)	Primary applicant & dependents
Biometrics Fee	AUD 70-100	Primary applicant & dependents
Police Clearance Certificate	Varies by country	Primary applicant & dependents

Important Notes:

• Payments can be made using MasterCard, VISA, or American Express.
• Additional banking and currency conversion charges may apply when paying from outside Australia.
• Visa fees may change based on government policies, so always check the official Australian Department of Home Affairs website before applying.

Australian Student Visa Processing Time

The time it takes to process an Australian student visa can vary based on several factors. Most applications are assessed individually, and the timeline depends on the type of course, the completeness of documents, and external checks.

Average Processing Times:

• Most student visa applications are processed within a few weeks.
• Priority may be given to applications from outside Australia.
• Incomplete documents or missing information can delay the process.

Factors Affecting Processing Time:

• Completeness of Documents: Ensure all required documents are submitted.
• Health Checks: Delays can occur if health certificates take longer to process.
• Application Complexity: Some courses or situations may need extra verification.
• External Agency Checks: National security and background checks can slow the process.
• Volume of Applications: High demand seasons may extend processing times.

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Processing Time for Different Visa Streams:

Visa Type	Average Processing Time (50% of Applications)	Average Processing Time (90% of Applications)
Foreign Affairs or Defence Sector	3 days	30 days
Postgraduate Research Sector	23 days	78 days
Independent ELICOS Sector	28 days	80 days
Schools Sector	49 days	5 months
Vocational Education and Training (VET)	4 months	6 months
Higher Education Sector	41 days	75 days
Non-Award Sector	Less than 1 day	66 days

How to Avoid Delays:

• Submit a complete application with all necessary documents.
• Ensure health checks and biometric scans are completed on time.
• Respond quickly to any additional document requests from immigration authorities

Work Rights and Restrictions on an Australian Student Visa

If you’re planning to study in Australia, your student visa lets you work while you study, making it easier to manage living costs and gain work experience. However, there are some limits on how much you can work and when.

What You Can Expect:

• During Classes: You can work up to 48 hours every two weeks while your course is in session.
• During Breaks: You can work as many hours as you want during official breaks.
• Work Type: On-campus and off-campus jobs are allowed, but any unpaid work must be part of your course to avoid counting toward your work limit.

What About Dependents?

• If you’re studying a bachelor’s degree, your partner can work up to 48 hours every two weeks, just like you.
• If you’re studying a master’s or PhD, your partner can work full-time without restrictions.

Work Type	Hours Allowed	During Term/Breaks?
On-Campus Work	Up to 48 hours/fortnight	Limited during the term, unlimited during breaks
Off-Campus Work	Up to 48 hours/fortnight	Limited during the term, unlimited during breaks
Internships (unpaid)	No hourly restrictions	Only if part of the curriculum
Postgraduate Research Work	No work hour restrictions	Flexible if approved by the university

Health Insurance Requirements for an Australian Student Visa

Australia requires all international students to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). This health insurance helps cover medical costs during your stay, ensuring you get proper care if needed.

Why Do You Need OSHC?

• Covers doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency services.
• Required from the day you arrive in Australia, not just from your course start date.
• Must be valid for your entire stay.
• If you're bringing family, they also need coverage.

Approved OSHC Providers and Costs:

Insurance Provider	Coverage Details	Approximate Cost (AUD)
Allianz Care Australia	Doctor visits, hospital care, emergency cover	AUD 1,192 – AUD 1,463
BUPA Australia	Hospital stays, medicines, ambulance cover	AUD 1,200 – AUD 1,500
Medibank	General medical care, mental health cover	AUD 1,250 – AUD 1,480
nib Health Insurance	Hospital cover, limited dental services	AUD 1,220 – AUD 1,450
Australian Unity	Doctor visits, day surgeries, mental health	AUD 1,200 – AUD 1,470

Things to Remember:

• OSHC must start the day you arrive in Australia.
• Keep proof of your policy, including the policy number, provider’s name, and start and end dates.
• Dependents must either be included in the same policy or have separate coverage.

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Financial Requirements for an Australian Student Visa

To apply for an Australian student visa, you must prove that you can cover your expenses while studying. This includes tuition fees, living costs, and return travel expenses. Meeting the financial requirement shows you can support yourself (and your dependents, if applicable) without relying on external income while in Australia.

Minimum Proof of Funds Needed:

• Tuition Fees: Full coverage for your course duration.
• Living Expenses: AUD 29,710 per year for a single applicant.
• Return Travel Costs: Estimated at AUD 2,000 per person.

Accepted Documents as Proof of Funds:

• Bank Statements: Savings showing the required amount maintained over time.
• Scholarship Letters: Proof of financial support from a recognized scholarship.
• Government Loans: Verified documents showing educational loan approvals.
• Income Certificates: Parents’ or partner’s income proof (AUD 87,856 for a single applicant or AUD 102,500 with family).
• Tax Assessments: Official documents verifying annual income.

How to Extend an Australian Student Visa

If your current visa is about to expire but you need to continue your studies, you can apply for a student visa extension. Here’s how to do it:

Step-by-Step Guide to Extend Your Student Visa:

Step 1: Confirm Your Course Continuation

• Ensure your course is extended or you are enrolling in a new course.
• Request a new Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCOE) from your institution.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

• Valid passport.
• New eCOE.
• Updated Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
• Proof of financial capacity (bank statements, scholarships, or income certificates).
• Academic progress reports.

Step 3: Apply Through ImmiAccount

• Log into your ImmiAccount on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
• Complete the Subclass 500 Student Visa application for extension.
• Upload all required documents.

Step 4: Pay the Visa Extension Fee

• Pay the AUD 710 visa extension fee.
• Additional charges may apply for health checks or dependents.

Step 5: Complete Health and Biometrics Checks

• Book a health check with an approved panel physician if required.
• Submit biometric details if requested.

Step 6: Await the Visa Decision

• Once submitted, your visa will be processed.
• Stay updated through your ImmiAccount.

Common Reasons for Student Visa Extensions:

• Course completion delay.
• Enrolling in a new course after completing the current one.
• Academic issues requiring extra semesters.
• Adding dependents to your visa.

Common Reasons for Australian Student Visa Rejection

Applying for an Australian Student Visa is a big step, but sometimes things don’t go as planned, and your application may be rejected because of:

• Incomplete Documents:
  • Missing key documents like Confirmation of Enrolment (eCOE), proof of funds, or health insurance.
  • Submitting incorrect or poorly translated documents.
• Insufficient Funds:
  • Failing to show enough money to cover tuition, living costs, and travel.
  • Inadequate proof of financial capacity, such as unclear bank statements or unverified income sources.
• GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) Concerns:
  • The visa aims to ensure students plan to study in Australia temporarily.
  • Rejection can happen if the visa officer doubts your genuine intention to study based on:
    • Personal circumstances and past education history.
    • Immigration history and past visa compliance.
    • Career goals not aligning with the chosen course.
• Health and Character Issues:
  • Failing the required health checks or not submitting health certificates.
  • Criminal records or failure to provide police clearance certificates.
• Lack of English Language Proficiency: Not meeting the minimum language requirements for the course (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE).
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Not purchasing OSHC or having coverage gaps during the study period.
• Academic Gaps or Low Performance: Poor academic performance or unexplained gaps in education history.

Post-Study Work Rights and Visa Options in Australia

You’ve finished your studies and are eager to start your career in Australia – but what are your options for staying and working after graduation? 

Luckily, Australia has a post-study work visa called the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), which allows you to gain valuable work experience. Here's a look at the post-graduation work rights under this visa:

Visa Type	Work Duration	Who Can Apply?
Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)	Up to 24 months	Recent graduates of eligible Australian courses
Post-Study Work Stream	2 to 4 years	Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD graduates
Graduate Work Stream	Up to 18 months	Graduates with skills in high-demand areas
Temporary Skilled Visa (Subclass 482)	Varies based on employer	Skilled workers with a job offer from an Australian employer

Key Eligibility for Post-Study Work Visas:

• Completed at least 2 years of study in Australia.
• Hold a valid student visa at the time of application.
• Meet health, character, and language requirements.

How upGrad Abroad Can Help You Secure an Australian Student Visa

Planning to study in Australia? upGrad Abroad makes the visa process simple and stress-free with expert support at every step. Whether you’re applying for the first time or need extra help with documentation, upGrad Abroad has you covered.

Why Choose upGrad Abroad?

• Get step-by-step support throughout your visa process.
• Join thousands of students who have successfully secured their visas.
• From applications to arrival, we’re with you at every stage.
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• Stay informed with the latest updates on overseas education.
• Track your application progress easily.
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