Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) – Process, Fees & Time

Of the nearly 7.6 lakh International students presently in Australia, is my dear friend from the past organization, Sneha. As we discussed the nuances of the Australian student visa a few days ago, I realized the complexities involved and the need for the right information.

So, here goes a blog covering all aspects of the student visa for Australia, including registration, eligibility, fees, and others.

What is Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) 

The Student Visa (subclass 500) permits you to stay in Australia for a maximum of 5 years for full-time study at an educational institution, as per your enrollment.
With this visa, you can pursue:
1. Higher Education

2. Vocational Education and Training (VET)

3. Pathway Programs

4. English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS)

5. Primary and Secondary Schooling

6. Secondary School Exchange Programs

7. Postgraduate Research

8. Non-award Courses

9. Postgraduate Research Programs

10. International Students Sponsored by DFAT or Defence

Why Apply for Australia Student Visa

 
A student visa for Australia for abroad education offers multiple benefits and is an ideal option for residing in Australia.

1- Work Opportunities While Studying on Your Student Visa

You can work up to 20 hours per week and 40 hours during holidays. With higher salaries in Australia, you'll live comfortably and enjoy various student discounts.

2- Ease of Studies

Australian universities are globally renowned for their quality education. What makes studying in Australia easier? It's typically less than 35 hours per week. The focus is more on assessments than prolonged classroom hours, giving you time to work or enjoy leisure activities.

3-Long-Term and Short-Term Visa Options

Australia provides the choice of applying for a short-term or long-term visa. Some international students will study for six months, while others may study for three years or more on their Australian Student Visa.

4- No Age Limitation

You can apply for a student visa for Australia at any age. However, special conditions apply if you are under 18 years old.

5- Graduate Visa

You may apply for a two-year Post-Study Work Visa once you graduate. If you study for two years at a higher education level, you will automatically be entitled to a two-year Post-Study Work Visa.

6- Include a Partner or Family Member

Your family members and your partner can be included when lodging your student visa application. For instance, if you are studying at a Master’s level, your partner can even get full work rights for the duration of your visa.

7- Freedom to Choose Your Field of Study

Australia offers you the freedom to study the courses you prefer. Have you always dreamed of studying Marketing? Want to switch careers and become a Personal Trainer or pursue an international master’s business degree in Australia? You can fulfill your dreams and study what excites you.

Recent Updates - Australian Student Visa

1. English Language Requirements:

Applied of March 23, 2024, the minimum score needed for a Student visa from an IELTS test score has increased from 5.5 to 6 (or its equivalent).
Other modifications include:

• The minimum score required for undertaking a packaged ELICOS from IELTS increases from 4.5 to 5.0.
• For students solely studying English through ELICOS, there will be no adjustment.
• The test score mandated for students pursuing university foundation or pathway programs that offer reputable English language training remains at IELTS 5.5 (or equivalent).

2. Genuine Student Test Requirement:

The Genuine Student Test criterion has superseded the Genuine Temporary Entrant requirement for student visas. Applications for Australia Student Visa submitted on or after March 23, 2024, will be subject to its implementation. This move intends to crack down on students who primarily fly down to Australia for work. 

3. Increased Financial Requirement: 

This rule change mandates International students to have savings of at least A$29,710 to manage their financial needs while studying.

Types of Australian Student Visa

The student visa (Subclass 500) is the most commonly used visa for studying in Australia. However, depending on your study abroad goals, other visa types may be more appropriate. Here are some more student-relevant visa types:

Source: Australia Visa Dept. 

Australian Student Visa – Processing Timelines

The processing time for obtaining an Australian Student Visa depends on the selected visa stream. The processing time for obtaining an Australian Student Visa would depend on the sector to which you apply. The visa applications of students applying from outside Australia are generally prioritized and are processed faster than those applying from Australia itself.

One must also keep in mind that visa processing may take longer if the information provided by the applicant is missing/ incomplete or is found malicious/ faulty.

Have a look at the prevailing Australia study visa processing time for different visa streams:

Source: Dept of Home Affairs, Australia

How Many Days Does It Take to Get Australian Student Visa 

Applications are evaluated individually. The Australian student visa processing time can vary due to several factors, including:

• If you have provided a complete application with all necessary supporting documents 
• Whether you submit your application online or on paper, online applications generally process faster.
• How promptly do you respond to any requests for additional information?
• The time required to conduct necessary checks.
• The time to receive additional information from external agencies, especially concerning health, character, and national security checks.
• The number of available slots in the migration program for permanent visas. Processing duration can be affected by more complex cases, fluctuations in the number of applications, and changes to Ministerial Directions.​

Australian Student Visa Requirements & Highlights

Wondering how to get a student visa for Australia? Mentioned below are several crucial application-related aspects that you should keep in mind. 

a. What is the Validity of an Australian Student Visa?

The visa will allow you to stay up to 5 years in Australia, depending upon your course duration. This implies that if your course is for 6 months, your visa will be valid for 6 months, if it’s a 2-year program, the visa validity duration will be 2 years.

b. What are the Eligibility Guidelines for an Australian Student Visa?

Only students who have enrolled in full-time courses can apply under Subclass 500. Those enrolled in distance learning/part-time courses will not qualify to apply for this student visa. 

c. Genuine Student (GS) Requirement

Effective on and after 23rd March 2024, the GS criterion is assessed with the help of details such as the candidate’s family and economic situation, the benefit of the course for them, reasons to pursue the course from the concerned Australian university, and any other relevant information. All these are to be answered in English and must not exceed 150 words per question. 
An aspirant will also need to upload supporting documents over their ImmiAccount, the account used for creating and managing visa applications electronically.

d. Health Check-up & Insurance-

Another crucial requirement for an Australian study visa is proof of good health. All applicants must meet the set minimum health standards to get the visa. The temporary requirement of undertaking medical examinations and chest x-rays has been uplifted for maximum applicants. You will only have to take these examinations if you do not fall under the exempted category.

Along with the health check-ups, it is mandatory to have OSHC, i.e., Overseas Student Health Cover. The cost may vary between AUD1,192 to AUD 1,463 for a single person for 12 months.
It is to be ensured that you and your family member/s have the OSHC when you arrive in Australia and maintain it for your entire stay. The cover must start from the day you are in Australia and not from when the course begins. When applying for a student visa, you must know vital details like the health service provider’s name, policy number, start and finish date of the policy, etc.

e. What are the Language Requirements for Australian Student Visa?

If you do not fall under the exempt category, you must obtain a satisfactory score in the accepted English language exam to prove your proficiency. The acceptable tests include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, CAE, and occupation English test (generally for the healthcare sector). Also, these tests should have been taken in the 2 years preceding your visa application date.

Source: Australian Govt Dept of Home Affairs

If you have a lower score (than the minimum required score for each test), you can pursue a 10 or 20-week ELICOS training course to meet the language requirements. It is to be taken into account that whether you go for a 10-week course or a 20-week training, there is still a minimum score requirement set for each category that you must meet.

f. What is the Age Limit for Australian Student Visa?

There is no prescribed maximum age limit for applying for a student visa in Australia. Although the country accepts an application even if the aspirant is over 40 years of age, it might be difficult for the applicant to justify their reasons for studying.

If the applicant is under 18 years old, special conditions may apply, and you may have to make adequate welfare arrangements accordingly.

g. What are the Financial Requirements for for Australian Student Visa?

You will have to show evidence of your financial capacity to cover all your expenses during your intended stay. This includes your travel costs, tuition fees, living costs, travel expenses, etc. The minimum financial capacity may differ for each applicant, depending on factors like your stay duration, tuition fees, which country you are from, etc.

There are two ways to meet the financial capacity requirements. First, you can opt for a 12-month funds option, showing you have sufficient money to cover traveling to Australia and living there for 12 months for yourself and the accompanying family members. This can be shown through money deposits from a financial institution, government loans or loans from a financial institution, or any scholarships or similar financial support. The student needs to show savings of at least AUD 29,710 if they are a single applicant.

Second, you can demonstrate your parents' or partner's sufficient annual income in the 12 months preceding your visa application date. The annual income to show is equal to AUD 87,856 for a single applicant and AUD 102,500 if you wish to bring your family members. In any case, the annual income must be supported by official government documentation, viz., tax assessment. Bank statements or proofs from employers are not acceptable.
Along with financial capacity, you must also prove that you have genuine access to these funds.

h. Character Certificate

All students must furnish proof of their good character. This means that they should have no criminal records, no suspects of being involved in any illegal conduct, and should have never been deported earlier from Australia. 

i. Other Criteria

Visa applications are also assessed based on significant criteria like your home country’s circumstances, economic scenario, the value of your chosen future course, potential opportunities for you in Australia, immigration track record, and other relevant aspects.

Resources for Australian Visa

• Sample SOP for Australian Student Visa

• Subclass 189 Visa

• Australian Visa Subclass 190

• Australia Post-Study Work Visa

Australia Student Visa Process

You can follow the below steps to apply for an Australian study visa:

Register and apply to an educational institution in Australia

1. Receive an unconditional offer letter

2. Accept the letter & pay the tuition costs in order to acquire OSHC

3. Receive eCOE (electronic Confirmation of Enrolment) letter

Collect all the required documents & Apply for Visa

1. Evidence of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) 

2. Evidence of good health conditions

3. Other mandatory documents 

4. Apply for the Visa. Ensure that the information that you provide is true and not misleading

Fill out the application form 

1. Fill out the online visa application form.

2. Declare all your family members in the application form so they can accompany you or join you subsequently in the country.

3. Check that the amount on your credit card is in Australian dollars.

4. Applications will only be considered for approval if the mandatory Australia student visa application fee is paid.

After submitting the application 

1. Make an appointment for a health examination.

2.  An approved Australian Immigration panel physician (hospital/clinic) must conduct the examination.

3. Schedule a biometrics appointment if required.

4. Submit any additional documents (as and when needed/asked) through your immigration login account. 

5. If there is any change in vital details like phone number, relationship status, passport, etc., you must immediately inform/ update the same through your ImmiAccount.

Visa application results

1. If your student visa is approved, the immigration department will send it to you by email.

2. Australian student visas (Subclass 500) are electronic, so you will not get any visa grant stamps on your passport.

3. If your visa is rejected, you will be notified of the reason for the refusal. You should note that the application fee will not be refunded if your visa application is rejected.

Australia Student Visa Fees

For international students, the cost of a student visa in Australia starts at AUD 710. However, there are additional costs that one may have to pay. This includes costs for health checks, biometrics, police certificates, etc. 
Let’s look at the table below to understand the charges better:

Source: Australian Govt Dept of Home Affairs

Australia Student Visa Fees 

• A student visa in Australia costs AUD 650 for international students. However, there are additional costs that one may have to pay. This includes costs for health checks, biometrics, police certificates, etc. 

• If you are under the age of 18, your total Australia student visa fees will be AUD 650 + AUD 160.

• If you are above 18 years of age: AUD 650 + AUD 485 would be the total Australia student visa fees. 

• MasterCard, VISA, and American Express are the only accepted credit cards. You may be charged banking and currency conversion fees if you pay by credit card in Australian dollars. Furthermore, fluctuations in currency might affect the total fee.

Important Resources 

Why Do Student Visas Get Rejected | How to Check Visa Status

Australia Student Visa Interview and Tips 

Securing an Australian student visa is contingent upon the success of the interview. Interview questions evaluate the candidate's passion and commitment to the selected program.

When applying for a student visa to Australia, keep the following considerations in mind:

• Being truthful is essential for a successful student visa application, as most of your comments are verifiable, and it is easy to spot fabrications.
• It's crucial to be on time for a face-to-face student visa interview. Refrain from arriving too early or too late, as this may give the case officer an adverse perception.
• Give the interview panel or case officers a kind greeting. Making a good impression is facilitated by having a polite manner.
• Make sure your application has the required supporting documentation. You should possess original copies of your bank statements, credentials, and personal paperwork. 
• Articulate your objectives clearly and confidently. Show that you have a well-thought-out strategy in place to accomplish your goals.
• Listen carefully to the questions before responding. Answer in a relevant and accurate manner after the interviewer has finished speaking.
• Ensure that your answers match with the documents submitted with your visa application. Be precise, thorough, and accurate in your responses.

How to Apply for Your Australia Student Visa Online

Steps to apply for your Australia student visa online:
1. Upon successful course application, you'll receive a Letter of Offer from your chosen education provider. Review it thoroughly to understand your course details, enrolment conditions, and associated fees.
2. After accepting the Letter of Offer and paying the deposit, your education provider will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
3. Provide a certificate of results from an approved English language test to show your proficiency, as Australian courses are taught in English.
4. Answer the GS questions in the visa application form to provide your reasons for studying in Australia.
5. Demonstrate your financial capability through bank statements, grants, scholarships, or proof of your family's income, meeting the minimum required funds.
6. Obtain OSHC for international students for medical coverage during your stay.
7. Schedule a medical check-up with an approved Australian Immigration panel physician (hospital/clinic).
8. Submit any requested additional documents via your ImmiAccount. 
9. Upon approval, your student visa will be sent by Immigration via email or postal address.
10. Australian student visas are electronic, so no visa grant stamps are placed on your passport.
11. Stay updated on travel requirements by regularly visiting the Department of Home Affairs' Student Visa website for the latest information.

How to Apply for Your Australia Student Visa from India 

Indian students must apply for their Australia student visa online by following these easy procedures, as there are no offline options accessible to them:

1. Use the Visa Finder tool to determine the best student visa for your situation.
2. The visa criteria for your selected student visa alternatives to obtain the required supporting documentation.
3. Apply for a visa online using ImmiAccount, the official website for applying for visas. If you don't already have an account, create one now.
4. To make the online Visa charge payment, use ImmiAccount. Await the immigration authorities' decision after filing your application.

How to Write SOP for an Australia Student Visa 

Here is how to write an SOP for an Australia student visa effectively.

1. Your SOP should be limited to 2 to 3 pages.
2. Aim for 800 – 1000 words unless specified differently by the university.
3. When applying for an Australian student visa, include the GS statements, valid passport, visa fee receipt, and enrollment proof.
4. Include work experience and academic records, along with a passport-sized photo.
5. Submit evidence of financial stability, health insurance, and English proficiency.

Key Points for Australia Student Visa SOP Writing:

• Maintain clarity and structure in your SOP.
• Present achievements and experiences in a narrative style with factual details.
• Clearly articulate your motivation for pursuing your chosen field.
• Provide a detailed timeline of your achievements and processes.
• Ensure error-free, understandable, and well-structured content.
• Avoid writing an SOP if you are planning or doing research.
• Use proper grammar, avoid slang, and maintain a formal tone.
• Stay within the word limit specified, neither exceeding nor falling short.
• Craft clear and concise introductions and conclusions for your SOP.

Australia Student Visa Rejections for Indian Students

In the recent past, the percentage of Indian applicants' visas being denied has gone up. Still, the result is dependent upon how well you apply. You have a strong chance of receiving your student visa if your application meets the requirements set forth by Australian educational institutions and the government.

5 Major Reasons for Australian Student Visa Rejection for Indian Students

About 20% of Indian applicants were denied visas in 2023. Let us tell you the major reasons for Australian student visa rejection for Indian students:

1. Genuine Student Requirement:

The GS requirement is critical in the Australian student visa application process. Its primary objective is to ensure that Indian applicants genuinely intend to study in Australia temporarily, avoiding any attempt to seek long-term residency or work rights.

During the assessment of an applicant's GS status, immigration officers take into account:

• Personal circumstances of the individual
• Immigration history
• Educational background of the applicant
• Past study or employment experiences
• Financial capacity
• Overall adherence to immigration regulations

2. Legitimacy and Completeness of Documents

Failure to submit essential documents or the submission of counterfeit documents can lead to visa rejection. Some of the crucial documents required include:

• Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE)
• GS statement
• Passport
• Certificate demonstrating English language proficiency
• Financial documents
• Academic transcripts and qualifications
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

3. Academic Credentials

Applicants must meet the prescribed academic qualifications to qualify for a student visa. Each university sets specific academic standards based on the chosen course of study. Failure to meet these academic criteria can result in a visa denial.

4. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

Overseas Student Health Cover is mandatory health insurance for international students studying in Australia. It covers medical and hospital expenses during their stay. Maintaining valid OSHC throughout the study period is a visa requirement. Failure to have OSHC can result in visa cancellation.

5. Reasons for Choosing Australia

Applicants should articulate why they have selected Australia over their home country for their studies. Indian students can highlight the quality of education and facilities offered in Australian institutions as decisive factors. Australian embassy officials consider these statements to ascertain that students are solely coming to Australia for educational purposes without intentions of working or starting a business.

Student Dependent Visa in Australia 

With your student visa, you can take your immediate family members (called dependents) along. The family members can be included in your original student visa application or join you later as subsequent entrants once you begin your studies in Australia. You must remember to declare all your family members in your initial student visa application if you want them to accompany you or join any time later in the country.

Applicants who include their dependent family members in their original student visa application should fill out form 157A with all the details. The student visa holder must have a visa valid for at least 12 months, sufficient finances, and insurance to cover expenditures during the stay.

Dependent Family Members on Student Visa

On a student visa, you are allowed to bring the following immediate family members as dependents:

• Your spouse or partner who you have been living with for the past 12 months

• Your children under the age of 18 or who are still in education (studying A-levels)

Also, the dependent partner’s job rights will vary depending on the course you are taking:

• The dependent partner may work up to 40 hours per week if you are enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program.

Your partner has complete and unrestricted work rights if you are pursuing a master’s degree or doctorate.

Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) – Documents Needed

Students should keep the following documents ready when applying for an Australian student visa: 

• Passport- There should be a valid passport with a duration being 6 months beyond the course tenure. 

• Payment receipt for the application fee. 

• Non-immigrant application for the visa. 

• COE (Confirmation of Enrollment Form), issued by the institution. 

• Acceptance letter from the university, including a proposed plan of study.

• OSHC (overseas health insurance) receipt. 

• Digital photographs. 

• Diplomas, transcripts, certificates, and degrees. 

• Scores in English language proficiency tests. 

• SOP (Statement of Purpose). 

• Proof of Funds.

Read More: How to study abroad for Free?

Post-Study Work Options for Students

Students with Subclass 500 visas can work part-time for up to 48 hours every fortnight in any sector of the economy.

Students are allowed to work for unrestricted hours during breaks or holidays. However, they can only start work once the course begins. Casework is sometimes a part of the course; the limit will not apply in such cases. Students in the Postgraduate Research Sector may work unlimited hours at the beginning of their doctoral thesis or research assignment. ELICOS students are not eligible to apply for the post-study work permit.

Read More: What is an ISIC card and what does it do?

Pathway Programs With Some Important Resources:

Studying in Australia – How and Where to Apply

If you are outside Australia, you must apply for your visa at least 8 weeks before your course commences. You may visit Australia around 90 days (maximum) prior to the beginning of the course. The application procedure is as follows: 

1. Create your ImmiAccount and log in to the same. 

2. You should fill up the application form as per the subclass. 

3. You will have to track your application after logging into ImmiAccount. You can use this account to attach all documents, update your passport details, change your address and email address, and check your application status. 

The TRN (Transaction Reference Number) is a unique number given to every application made online. This will be required to manage and track your application and identify scenarios where you must communicate with your visa center. You can also use this to check entitlements under your visa.

Conclusion

In conclusion, navigating the Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) process in 2024 requires a comprehensive understanding of its requirements, fees, and processing times. 

This visa subclass, underscores the country's commitment to providing a welcoming and inclusive educational environment. With the detailed process designed to assess applicants' eligibility, financial stability, and genuine intent to study, students are encouraged to prepare meticulously to ensure a smooth application journey.