500 Student Visa

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Student Visa (Subclass 500), applicants must meet several key requirements:

Age

You must be at least 6 years old at the time of application. For school students, specific age limits apply:

1. Less than 17 years old when starting Year 9
2. Less than 18 years old when starting Year 10
3. Less than 19 years old when starting Year 11
4. Less than 20 years old when starting Year 12

Enrolment

‍You must be enrolled in a full-time course registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). This includes:

1. Primary and secondary school courses
2. Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses
3. Higher education courses
4. English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS)

Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

‍You need to provide a valid CoE from your chosen education provider. This document confirms your acceptance into a registered course.

Genuine Student (GS) Requirement

‍From March 23, 2024, the Genuine Student requirement replaced the previous Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion. You must demonstrate that you are a genuine applicant for entry and stay as a student. This involves answering specific questions about your circumstances and intentions of study. We go into further detail below.

Financial Capacity

You must prove that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees, living costs, and travel expenses. As of May 2024, the financial requirements have increased. We'll discuss this in more detail in the Financial Requirements section.

English Language Proficiency

‍Unless exempt, you need to provide evidence of your English language skills. The minimum requirements have recently changed, which we'll cover in the English Language Requirements section.

Health Insurance

‍You and any family members included in your application must have adequate health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay in Australia.

Health and Character Requirements

‍You must meet Australia's health and character requirements, which may involve health examinations and police clearances.

Visa History

‍Your previous visa history, both in Australia and other countries, will be considered. If you've had a visa refusal or cancellation, this could affect your application.

It's important to note that meeting these eligibility criteria doesn't guarantee visa grant. Each application is assessed on its individual merits, taking into account all relevant factors.

Genuine Student Requirement

The application now requires applicants to provide detailed information about their current circumstances, along with a thorough explanation of their motivation for pursuing their chosen course of study in Australia.

Applicants are also asked to articulate how completing the course will benefit them personally and professionally. Additionally, the application allows for the inclusion of any other relevant information that the applicant deems important to their case.

Addressing the "Genuine Student" Requirement

Here are 10 points which should be addressed in your "Genuine Student" statement for your student visa application:

1. Details of your current circumstances, including ties to family, community, employment and economic situation in your home country.
2. A clear explanation of why you chose your specific course of study and why you selected Australia as your study destination.
3. Information on how completing the chosen course will benefit your future career and personal goals.
4. Your understanding of the course requirements and what studying and living in Australia entails.
5. If applicable, details of your previous study history in Australia, including reasons for any changes in courses or education providers.
6. For those holding a non-student visa, explain your reasons for now applying for a student visa.
7. Evidence of your academic qualifications and how they relate to your chosen course in Australia.
8. Information on your English language proficiency, as requirements have increased (minimum IELTS 6.0 or equivalent).
9. Proof of your financial capacity to support your studies and living expenses in Australia.
10. Any additional relevant information that demonstrates your genuine intention to study, such as research you've done on the education provider, career opportunities related to your course, or plans for using your qualification after graduation.

It's worth noting that applicants who have previously held a student visa or are applying from within Australia on a non-student visa may be subject to additional questioning. To substantiate their responses, all applicants are required to submit supporting documents alongside their visa application.

A holistic approach is taken in the assessment process, considering various aspects of the applicant's personal circumstances. This includes examining ties to family and community, employment status, and economic situation. Furthermore, the potential benefits that the applicant stands to gain from completing the course are carefully weighed as part of the overall evaluation.

Application Process

Navigating the application process for the Student Visa (Subclass 500) requires careful attention to detail. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through:

1. Obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

• Apply to and gain acceptance from an Australian education provider
• Receive your CoE, a crucial document for your visa application

2. Prepare Your Documents

• Utilise the Document Checklist Tool on the Department of Home Affairs website
• Gather key documents, including:
  • Valid passport
  • CoE(s) for all intended courses
  • Evidence of financial capacity
  • Proof of English language proficiency
  • Health insurance coverage
  • Health examination results (if required)
  • Character documents (including police certificates if applicable)

3. Create an ImmiAccount

• Visit the Department of Home Affairs website
• Set up an ImmiAccount for application submission and progress tracking

4. Lodge Your Application

• Fill out the online application form via your ImmiAccount
• Provide truthful and complete answers to all questions

5. Pay the Visa Application Charge

• As of July 2024, the base fee is AUD 1,600 for the main applicant
• Note: Additional fees apply for included family members

6. Attach Supporting Documents

• Upload all required documents to your online application
• Ensure documents are clear, legible, and in the correct format (typically PDF)

7. Provide Biometrics

• Some applicants may need to provide fingerprints and a photograph
• You'll be notified after application lodgement if this is necessary

8. Complete Health Examinations

• Undergo health examinations if required
• You may use existing valid health examination results

9. Respond to Additional Information Requests

• The Department may ask for more information or clarification
• Respond promptly to avoid processing delays

10. Await Decision

• Processing times vary based on individual circumstances and course type
• Check current processing times on the Department's website

11. Receive Visa Grant

• If successful, you'll get a visa grant notification
• This includes your visa grant number, conditions, and expiry date

If you're applying from outside Australia, it's recommended to lodge your application at least 6-8 weeks before your course starts. If you're in Australia, apply well before your current visa expires.

Financial Requirements

Meeting the financial requirements is a crucial aspect of obtaining and maintaining a Student Visa (Subclass 500). The Australian government wants to ensure that international students can support themselves during their studies without facing financial hardship. Here's what you need to know:

Proof of Funds

You must demonstrate access to sufficient funds to cover:

1. Travel costs
2. 12 months of living expenses
3. 12 months of tuition fees
4. School costs for any school-age dependents

Specific Financial Requirements

1. Single students: Must show evidence of funds or an annual income of at least AUD 87,856
2. Students with family members: Must show evidence of funds or an annual income of at least AUD 102,500
3. Living Costs (per year):
   • For the main student: AUD 29,710
   • For a partner coming with you: AUD 10,394
   • For a child coming with you: AUD 4,449

Acceptable Evidence of Funds

1. Bank statements showing consistent savings over several months
2. Education loans from recognised financial institutions
3. Scholarships or sponsorships
4. Money deposit certificates
5. Government loans or approved student loans

Financial Support from Parents or Spouse

If your parents or spouse are supporting you financially, you need to provide:

1. Proof of their income (e.g., tax returns, pay slips)
2. Bank statements showing sufficient funds
3. A letter of financial support

Ongoing Financial Capacity

Maintaining sufficient financial capacity is an ongoing visa condition (8516). The Department may check your financial situation at any time during your stay.

Working While Studying

While you can work part-time during your studies, this income should not be your primary means of support. Your ability to work should be seen as supplementary to your main financial resources.

Scholarships and Sponsorships

If you've received a scholarship or sponsorship, provide official documentation detailing the terms and coverage.

Financial Capacity Assessment

The Department uses a risk-based approach to assess financial capacity. Some applicants may need to provide more detailed evidence than others, depending on their circumstances and country of origin.

Genuine Access to Funds

1. You must have genuine access to the funds you're claiming.
2. The Department may investigate to ensure the funds are not suddenly available just for visa purposes.

Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for the most up-to-date financial requirements, as these can change. Providing false or misleading information about your financial situation can lead to visa refusal or cancellation.

English Language Requirements

Demonstrating English language proficiency is a key requirement for the Student Visa (Subclass 500). Recent changes have made these requirements more stringent, reflecting the importance of English skills for academic success in Australia.

Minimum English Test Scores and Acceptable English Tests

For most Student visa applications: IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent

For university foundation or pathway programs (10 weeks ELICOS): IELTS 5.5 or equivalent

For 20 weeks ELICOS or foundation extended programs: IELTS 5.0 or equivalent

Accepted English Language Tests:

1. International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
2. Test of English as a Foreign Language internet-based test (TOEFL iBT)
3. Cambridge C1 Advanced test
4. Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic
5. Occupational English Test (OET)

Test Validity

English test results must be no more than two years old at the time of visa application.

Exemptions from English Requirements

You may be exempt from providing English test results if you:

1. Are a citizen of and hold a valid passport from the UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, or Republic of Ireland
2. Have completed at least 5 years of study in English in Australia, UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, or Republic of Ireland
3. Have completed a substantial component of a course leading to an Australian Qualifications Framework qualification at Certificate IV level or higher in Australia, while holding a student visa, less than 2 years ago
4. ELICOS Packages:
   • If your main course doesn't meet the English requirements, you may be able to package it with an ELICOS course.
   • The length of the ELICOS course affects the minimum English score required.

Higher Education Sector Requirements

Universities may have higher English requirements than the visa minimum.

Always check with your education provider for their specific requirements.

Consequences of Not Meeting Requirements

If you don't meet the English requirements, your visa application may be refused.

Providing false or misleading information about your English proficiency can lead to visa cancellation.

Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for the most current English language requirements. Requirements can vary based on your education provider and course level, so it's crucial to confirm the specific requirements for your situation.

Health Insurance Requirements

Having adequate health insurance is not only a visa requirement but also crucial for your wellbeing while studying in Australia. The specific type of health insurance required for Student Visa (Subclass 500) holders is called Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

Mandatory Requirement

You and any family members included in your visa application must have OSHC for the entire duration of your stay in Australia. This is a condition of your student visa (condition 8501).

Coverage Period

Your OSHC must cover you from the day you arrive in Australia until your visa expires. It's recommended to have at least 3 months extended cover beyond your CoE end date. If your course finishes at the end of the Australian academic year (November to December), coverage should extend to March 15 of the following year.

What OSHC Covers:

1. Most medical and hospital expenses
2. Limited pharmaceuticals
3. Ambulance services in emergencies

Approved OSHC Providers

Only certain insurers are approved to offer OSHC.

As of 2024, these include: Allianz Care, Bupa, Medibank Private, and nib Health Funds

Choosing a Provider:

- Compare policies from different providers to find the best coverage for your needs.

- Consider factors like premium cost, excess fees, and additional benefits.

Exemptions

Students from certain countries may be exempt from OSHC requirements due to reciprocal health care agreements, such as Belgium, Norway and Sweden.

Family Coverage

If you're bringing family members, ensure your OSHC policy covers all of you.

'Family' policies typically cover the student, their spouse, and dependent children under 18.

Maintaining Coverage

Ensure your OSHC doesn't lapse during your stay.

Set up automatic renewals or reminders to avoid gaps in coverage.

Proof of Insurance

You'll need to provide evidence of OSHC when applying for your student visa.

Keep your policy details accessible in case you need to prove your coverage while in Australia.

Changing Providers

You can switch OSHC providers, but ensure there's no gap in coverage. Inform your education provider if you change your OSHC arrangement.

While OSHC provides essential coverage, it may not cover all medical situations. Consider your personal health needs and whether additional private health insurance might be beneficial for your circumstances.

Work Rights

The ability to work while studying in Australia can be a valuable opportunity for international students. However, it's crucial to understand and adhere to the work restrictions associated with your Student Visa (Subclass 500).

Work Hours During Study Periods

You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight when your course is in session.

A fortnight is defined as a 14-day period starting on a Monday.

Work Hours During Breaks

You can work unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks.

When You Can Start Working

You're allowed to start working only after your course has commenced.

Don't begin working before your course start date, even if you arrive in Australia early.

Course "In Session" Definition

Your course is considered 'in session':

1. For the duration of advertised semesters (including exam periods)
2. If you've completed your studies and your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) is still in effect
3. If you're undertaking another course during a break from your main course, and the points will be credited to your main course

Postgraduate Research Students

1. If you're enrolled in a masters by research or doctoral degree, you can work unlimited hours once your course has commenced.
2. Family Members' Work Rights:
   • Family members (dependents) on your student visa generally have the same work rights as you.
   • If you're studying a masters or doctoral degree, your family members can work unlimited hours once your course has started.
     

While working can help support your studies and living expenses, your primary purpose in Australia is to study. Ensure that your work commitments do not interfere with your academic progress, as maintaining satisfactory course progress is a condition of your student visa.

Family Members and Dependents

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows you to bring certain family members to Australia with you during your studies. Understanding who can be included and what it means for them is crucial for planning your stay in Australia.

Eligible Family Members:You can include the following family members in your student visa application:

1. Your partner (spouse or de facto partner)
2. Your or your partner's dependent children who are unmarried and under 18 years of age

Application Process:

1. You can include family members in your initial visa application.
2. Alternatively, they can apply to join you later as "subsequent entrants."

Please see this article to learn more about adding family members to your student visa application.

Visa Duration

Understanding the duration of your Student Visa (Subclass 500) and the options for extending your stay is crucial for planning your studies in Australia. Let's break down the key points:

Initial Visa Grant Period

The length of your visa is generally based on the duration of your course.

It can be granted for up to 5 years, depending on your circumstances.

Factors Affecting Visa Duration

1. Length of your enrolled course(s)
2. Type of course (e.g., bachelor's degree, diploma, ELICOS)
3. Your passport expiry date

Standard Visa End Dates

1. For courses less than 10 months ending in a certain month: Visa typically expires 1 month after the course end date.
2. For courses 10 months or longer ending January to October: Visa typically expires 2 months after the course end date.
3. For courses 10 months or longer ending November to December: Visa typically expires on 15 March of the following year.
4. Postgraduate Research Students:
   • If you're undertaking a masters by research or doctoral degree, your visa may be granted for up to 5 years.
   • An additional 6 months may be added to allow for thesis marking and revisions.
5. Packaged Courses:
   • If you're enrolled in multiple courses (e.g., ELICOS followed by a bachelor's degree), your visa duration will typically cover all courses.

Extending Your Stay

There is no provision to "extend" a student visa. Instead, you need to apply for a new Student visa.

Apply for a new visa at least six weeks before your current visa expires.

When to Apply for a New Student Visa

1. If you need more time to complete your current course
2. If you want to undertake further study
3. If you can't return to your home country due to circumstances beyond your control

Eligibility for a New Student Visa

You must meet all visa requirements, including having a new CoE for your continued or new studies. You must maintain your status as a genuine student.

Bridging Visas

If you apply for a new student visa while in Australia before your current visa expires, you'll typically be granted a Bridging Visa A.

This allows you to remain in Australia legally while your new visa application is being processed.

Visa Expiry and Overstaying

Staying in Australia after your visa expires can have serious consequences.

You may be subject to a 3-year re-entry ban if you overstay your visa by more than 28 days.

Completing Studies Early

If you complete your studies earlier than expected, your visa won't automatically be shortened.

However, you should not use the visa solely for non-study purposes after completing your course.

Changing Education Providers

If you change to a course of longer duration, you may need to apply for a new student visa.

1. Course Deferrals or Suspensions:
   • If your course is deferred or suspended, it may affect your visa. Always consult with your education provider and the Department of Home Affairs.
2. Post-Study Work Options:
   • After completing your studies, you may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) to work in Australia.
   • Apply for this visa before your student visa expires.

Always check the exact end date of your visa and plan accordingly. Visa rules can change, so it's crucial to stay informed and seek advice from your education provider or a registered migration agent if you're unsure about your visa status or options.

Potential Pathways to Permanent Residency

While the Student Visa (Subclass 500) is a temporary visa, many international students aspire to stay in Australia long-term. Understanding the potential pathways to permanent residency can help you plan your future beyond your studies.

Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

1. Often the first step for many international graduates
2. Two streams: Graduate Work Stream and Post-Study Work Stream
3. Allows you to live, work, and study in Australia temporarily after completing your studies
4. Duration: 18 months to 4 years, depending on your qualification and stream

Independent Skilled Migration

These types of skilled visas utilise a points-based system for skilled workers.

Key visas include: Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189), Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190), and Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 491)

Often, states and territories nominate graduates for permanent residency and have lower requirements for them. They usually require applicants to be living and working in a specific region for a set period.

You are required to complete a full skills assessment and meet the minimum points threshold.

Employer Sponsorship

1. Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482) leading to Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186)
2. Requires sponsorship from an approved Australian employer

Global Talent Visa Program

This is for highly skilled individuals in specific sectors and comprises of two streams, the Global Talent stream and Distinguished Talent stream. Whilst this program has previously offered a fast-tracked pathway to permanent residency for PhD graduates, it has become increasingly difficult to receive an invitation under this visa program in recent years. Most applicants are unlikely to be considered for this visa type unless you have achievements that are internationally renowned.

Final Notes to Keep In Mind

• Pathways to permanent residency are complex and subject to change.
• There is no guaranteed pathway from a student visa to permanent residency.
• Start planning early and seek professional advice to understand your options.
• Focus on developing skills and qualifications that align with Australia's long-term needs.
• Always ensure you maintain full compliance with your current visa conditions.

While it's good to be aware of potential pathways to permanent residency, your primary focus should be on successfully completing your studies and making the most of your time in Australia as a student.

Studying in Australia as an international student is more than just earning a qualification; it's an opportunity for personal growth, cultural exchange, and potentially the first step towards a longer-term connection with Australia. The Student Visa (Subclass 500) is your gateway to this experience, but it comes with responsibilities.

Stay informed, plan carefully, and make the most of the support services available to you. Your success as an international student in Australia depends not just on your academic performance, but on your ability to navigate the complexities of living and studying in a new country.

Whether your goal is to return home with a world-class education, gain international work experience, or potentially build a future in Australia, understanding and complying with your visa conditions is the foundation for achieving your aspirations.

The content on this page does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Australian immigration doesn't have to be complex and we can help with your unique circumstances. To seek legal advice for information that is specific to your situation, please contact us.

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