A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an International Student Visa in Australia

Hello and welcome to International Student Tips (IST)! Ever dreamed of studying in Australia as an international student? The first step is securing a student visa (subclass 500)—a temporary visa that lets you live, study, and work in Australia while you pursue your education. It might seem overwhelming at first, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered every step of the way!

Step 1: Choose Your Course and Get Accepted

To apply for a student visa, you need to:

• Find a Course: Use the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) to find an approved course at a registered Australian institution that aligns with your goals.
• Apply and Receive a CoE: Once accepted, your institution will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)—a crucial document required for your student visa application.

Tip: Research institutions in cities like Sydney or Melbourne, which are popular for overseas student visa Australia holders due to their vibrant student communities.

Step 2: Check Your Eligibility for the Student Visa

The Australian student visa (subclass 500) has specific requirements to ensure a smooth student visa process.

• Enrollment: You must have a valid CoE from a CRICOS-registered course.
• Financial Proof: Show you can cover tuition, living costs (around AUD 29,710 per year as of 2025), and travel expenses, per the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs.
• English Proficiency: Depending on your course, you may need to provide test scores like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
• Health and Character: You’ll need Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) and a clear criminal record.

Step 3: Gather Your Documents

Having all your documents ready speeds up the visa immigration process for your international student visa Australia.

• Passport (valid for your entire stay)
• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
• Proof of funds (bank statements, scholarship letters)
• English test results (if required)
• OSHC policy details
• Passport-sized photos
• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement: A letter explaining why you’re studying in Australia and plan to return home after your studies.

Step 4: Apply Online for Your Student Visa

It’s time to apply for a student visa officially! The process is streamlined through the ImmiAccount portal.

• Create an ImmiAccount: Sign up at ImmiAccount.
• Submit Your Application: Fill out the form for the student visa (subclass 500), upload your documents, and pay the application fee (around AUD 1,600 as of 2025).
• Biometrics and Health Checks: You may be asked to provide biometrics or undergo a medical exam, depending on your country.

Step 5: Wait for Approval and Plan Your Arrival

Processing times for an international student visa vary, but most are processed within 4-12 weeks, according to the Department of Home Affairs (2025).

• Track Your Application: Use your ImmiAccount to check the status.
• Visa Grant: Once approved, you’ll receive a visa grant notice with your visa conditions. You can enter Australia up to 90 days before your course starts.
• Know Your Rights: The student visa allows you to study full-time, work part-time, and bring family members (if eligible).

Reminder: Don’t book flights until your temporary visa is approved to avoid complications.

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Transition

• Arrive Early: Use the 90-day window to settle in, open a bank account, and explore your city.
• Understand Conditions: Breaching visa rules (e.g., working over 48 hours per fortnight) can risk your student visa status.
• Seek Help: If you’re unsure, consult your uni’s international student office or a registered migration agent.

Fun Fact: Over 700,000 overseas student visa Australia holders study in Australia annually, making it one of the top destinations for international education (Australian Government, 2025)!

Final Thoughts

Applying for an international student visa for Australia is a big step toward your study abroad dreams. By following these steps, you’ll navigate the visa immigration process with confidence and start your Australian journey on the right foot. Keep following International Student Tips for more advice on thriving as an overseas student Down Under!

This information has been checked and updated as of April 2025. Visa requirements and fees can change, so we strongly recommend consulting a Migration Agents Registration Authority (MARA)-registered agent before taking any legal action or making decisions. Find a MARA agent at mara.gov.au.