Australia is one of the top study destinations in the world, attracting thousands of international students every year. With globally ranked universities, high-quality education, and excellent post-study opportunities, obtaining a student visa Australia is the first step toward studying in the country. However, understanding the requirements, fees, and processing time is essential to avoid delays or refusals.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the student visa Australia, while also clarifying how it differs from other visa types such as the tourist visa Australia and medical treatment visa.
What Is a Student Visa Australia?
The student visa Subclass 500 allows international students to live, study, and work in Australia while enrolled in a registered course. This visa is suitable for students pursuing:
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Higher education (universities and colleges)
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Vocational Education and Training (VET)
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English language courses (ELICOS)
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School education
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Postgraduate research programs
A student visa Australia is typically granted for the duration of your course, plus additional time after completion.
Student Visa Australia Requirements
Meeting the eligibility criteria is crucial for a successful application. Below are the main student visa Australia requirements:
1. Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
You must receive a Confirmation of Enrolment from an Australian institution registered under CRICOS.
2. Genuine Student Requirement (GS)
Applicants must demonstrate genuine intent to study in Australia and return home after completing their education.
3. Financial Capacity
You must show sufficient funds to cover:
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Tuition fees
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Living expenses
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Travel costs
4. English Language Proficiency
Accepted tests include IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or equivalent, unless exempted.
5. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
OSHC is mandatory for the entire duration of your stay in Australia.
6. Health and Character Requirements
Medical examinations and police clearance certificates may be required.
Meeting all student visa Australia requirements significantly improves approval chances.
Student Visa Australia Fees
The student visa Australia fee varies depending on the applicant’s circumstances. As of recent guidelines:
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Base visa application charge: AUD 710
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Additional applicant charges apply for dependents
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Medical examinations, OSHC, and biometrics involve extra costs
It is important to budget properly before applying to ensure a smooth process.
Student Visa Australia Processing Time
The student visa Australia processing time depends on factors such as country of origin, education sector, and application completeness.
Average processing times:
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50% of applications: 4–6 weeks
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90% of applications: up to 3 months
Incomplete documentation or additional verification can increase processing time. Submitting a well-prepared application helps avoid unnecessary delays.
Work Rights on a Student Visa Australia
International students on a student visa Australia are allowed to work:
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Up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods
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Unlimited hours during official course breaks
These work rights help students gain experience and support living expenses while studying.
Difference Between Student Visa Australia and Tourist Visa Australia
Many applicants confuse the student visa Australia with the tourist visa Australia, but both serve different purposes.
Tourist Visa Australia
A tourist visa Australia is designed for:
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Short-term visits
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Holidays and sightseeing
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Visiting family or friends
It does not allow full-time study or long-term stay.
Student Visa Australia
A student visa Australia allows:
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Full-time study
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Part-time work
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Longer stay aligned with course duration
Choosing the wrong visa type, such as entering on a tourist visa Australia to study, can lead to visa cancellation or refusal.
What Is a Medical Treatment Visa?
A medical treatment visa (Subclass 602) is issued to individuals traveling to Australia for medical treatment or consultations. This visa is not suitable for education or employment purposes.
A medical treatment visa may be granted for:
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Medical procedures
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Organ donation
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Support for someone receiving treatment
Applicants on a medical treatment visa are generally not allowed to study long-term or work.
Can You Switch from Tourist Visa Australia or Medical Treatment Visa to Student Visa Australia?
In some cases, applicants can apply for a student visa Australia while holding a tourist visa Australia or medical treatment visa, provided there are no restrictive conditions such as “No Further Stay.”
However, switching visas requires careful assessment and strong documentation. Professional advice is highly recommended to avoid refusal.
Common Reasons for Student Visa Australia Refusal
Understanding refusal reasons helps applicants prepare better. Common issues include:
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Insufficient financial evidence
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Weak Genuine Student statement
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Incorrect or incomplete documentation
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Poor academic or visa history
A properly structured application reduces these risks significantly.
Tips to Improve Student Visa Australia Approval
To increase your chances of success:
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Apply early with complete documents
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Write a strong Genuine Student statement
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Ensure financial evidence is clear and verifiable
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Maintain consistency across all documents
Expert guidance can make a significant difference in complex cases.
Final Thoughts
Applying for a student visa Australia requires careful planning, accurate documentation, and a clear understanding of visa conditions. Knowing the requirements, fees, and processing time helps students make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.
It is also important to understand the limitations of other visa types such as the tourist visa Australia and medical treatment visa, which are not designed for long-term study.
With the right preparation and professional support, your journey to study in Australia can be smooth, successful, and rewarding.
