Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500) Application Process – GOG

Overview

  • Host Country: Australia
  • Degree Level: Undergraduate, Postgraduate, PhD, Vocational Education & Training (VET), English Language Courses
  • Financial Benefits: Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the semester, unlimited work during breaks, potential scholarships
  • Sponsored By: Australian Government, Educational Institutions
  • Total Expense: AUD 25,000 – AUD 50,000 per year (Tuition + Living Expenses, varies by institution and city)
  • Timeframe for Process: 3 to 6 months (from application to visa approval)

Also Check: Canada Study Permit Process: Step-by-Step Guide for International Students – GOG

Complete Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)

Step 1: Choose Your Course and Institution

Before applying for the Subclass 500 visa, students must secure admission to an Australian educational institution. Follow these steps:

Step 2: Meet English Language Requirements

Most Australian universities require proof of English proficiency. Accepted tests include:

  • IELTS (Overall 6.0 or higher, depending on the course requirements)
  • TOEFL iBT
  • PTE Academic
  • Cambridge English (CAE)

Step 3: Apply for Admission & Receive Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

  • Submit an online application through the university’s portal.
  • Prepare required documents:
    • Academic transcripts and certificates
    • English language test scores
    • Statement of Purpose (SOP)
    • Letters of Recommendation (if required)
    • Work experience (if applicable)
    • Resume/CV
    • Proof of financial capacity
  • Pay the application fee (if applicable) and wait for the admission decision (usually 4-8 weeks).
  • Once accepted, the university will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), which is essential for the visa application.

Also Check: Italy Student Visa: A Complete Guide for International Students – GOG

Step 4: Arrange Financial Proof

Applicants must demonstrate they have sufficient funds to cover:

  • Tuition fees
  • Living expenses (AUD 24,505 per year for a single student as per 2024 requirements)
  • Travel expenses
  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
  • Sources of funding can include:
    • Personal savings
    • Sponsorships
    • Education loans
    • Scholarships

Step 5: Get Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

  • OSHC is mandatory for international students.
  • Purchase OSHC from an approved provider such as Bupa, Medibank, Allianz, etc.
  • The duration of OSHC should match the length of your course.

Step 6: Create an ImmiAccount & Fill Out Visa Application (Subclass 500)

  • Visit the Department of Home Affairs website and create an ImmiAccount.
  • Select Student Visa (Subclass 500) and complete the application form.
  • Upload required documents:
    • Passport (valid for the duration of stay)
    • Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
    • OSHC Certificate
    • Financial proof
    • English language test results
    • Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Statement

Step 7: Pay Visa Application Fee

  • The visa application fee is AUD 710 (as of 2024).
  • Payment can be made online through ImmiAccount.
  • Keep the payment receipt for reference.

Step 8: Schedule & Attend Health Examination

  • After submitting the visa application, applicants must undergo a health examination by an approved panel physician.
  • The medical examination includes:
    • General health check-up
    • Chest X-ray
    • Blood tests (if required)
  • The medical results are automatically uploaded to your ImmiAccount.

Also Check: Turkey Student Visa: A Complete Guide for International Students – GOG

Step 9: Biometrics & Additional Documents (If Required)

  • Some applicants may be required to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photographs) at an Australian Visa Application Centre (AVAC).
  • If requested, submit additional documents like police clearance certificates.

Step 10: Attend Visa Interview (If Required)

  • Most applications do not require an interview, but if requested, be prepared to answer questions about:
    • Your study plans in Australia
    • Financial ability to support yourself
    • Your intent to return to your home country after studies

Step 11: Wait for Visa Decision

  • Processing time varies but typically takes 4 to 12 weeks.
  • You can track your application status via your ImmiAccount.
  • If approved, you will receive a Visa Grant Notification via email.

Step 12: Plan Your Travel & Arrival in Australia

  • Book your flight (you can arrive 90 days before the course start date).
  • Arrange accommodation (university dorms, shared apartments, or homestays).
  • Attend Pre-Departure Orientation organized by the university.
  • Carry all required documents, including passport, visa grant letter, and CoE.

Step 13: Attend University Enrollment & Orientation

  • Report to your university upon arrival.
  • Activate your OSHC insurance.
  • Attend orientation sessions to understand university policies and student support services.

Conclusion

Applying for an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) is a structured process requiring careful planning. By following these steps, students can smoothly transition from securing university admission to arriving in Australia.

Start early, prepare well, and ensure all documents are accurate to maximize your chances of approval.

Leave a Comment