Australian student visa
Guide to Applying for an Australian Student Visa
Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Visa Overview
The Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) is required for studying in Australia. Applicants must have an offer from an Australian educational institution, meet English language requirements, demonstrate sufficient financial capacity, and purchase Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). The visa validity period matches the duration of your course.
Required Materials
- Valid Passport (must be valid for the entire duration of study)
- Offer Letter (CoE - Confirmation of Enrolment)
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) Certificate
- Proof of Financial Capacity (Tuition, Living Expenses, and Round-Trip Airfare)
- English Proficiency Proof (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE Score Reports)
- GTE Statement (Genuine Temporary Entrant Statement)
- Medical Examination Report (required for some applicants)
Process
Admitted
Receive your offer letter from an Australian educational institution and pay your tuition fees
Get CoE
School issues CoE (Confirmation of Enrollment)
Buy Insurance
Purchase Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Prepare Materials
Prepare your passport, CoE, financial documents, and English proficiency test results.
Apply Online
Submit your visa application online via the Australian Department of Home Affairs website
Medical Checkup
Complete required medical checkup (if applicable)
Pending Approval
Pending approval from the Australian Department of Home Affairs (typically 1–3 months).
Get Visa
Receive an e-Visa upon approval to enter Australia
Processing Time
Submit your application at least 3-4 months before the start of the semester.
Visa Fees
Application fee: 710 AUD (approximately 3,400 CNY)
Important Notice
- •Your financial capacity must cover tuition, living expenses (approximately 21,041 AUD/year), and round-trip airfare.
- •The GTE statement must explain your genuine intention to study and the purpose of your temporary stay.
- •Work no more than 48 hours every two weeks during your studies.
- •After graduation, you can apply for the Post-Study Work visa.
- •OSHC insurance must cover the entire duration of your studies.
Common Reasons for Visa Rejection
- •Passport expires soon
- •Missing CoE
- •Insufficient proof of financial capability
- •Missing OSHC insurance
- •GTE declaration insufficient
- •English proficiency requirement not met
FAQ
Is an interview required for the Australian student visa?
Generally, an in-person interview is not required, but you may be asked to provide additional documentation or undergo a telephone inquiry.
How much proof of financial capacity is required?
You must provide proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses (approximately 21,041 AUD/year), and round-trip airfare.
Can I work while studying in Australia?
While on a student visa, you may work up to 48 hours every two weeks. Full-time work is allowed during holidays.
Can I stay in Australia to work after graduation?
After graduation, you can apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485). Bachelor's degree holders are eligible for 2 years, master's graduates for 1.5-3 years, and PhD graduates for 3-4 years.