Australia is a top choice among students for study and work purposes. But let’s be real – before you can wander those Sydney beaches or explore Melbourne’s coffee scene, you’ve got to tackle the visa process. Don’t worry, though, here is a breakdown of everything for getting your student visa for Australia.
What Is Visa 500 Australia?
Through the Visa 500 Australia program, you gain access to the Australian student experience. It’s not just about sitting in lectures – you’re actually allowed to work part-time and bring your partner or kids along.
Student Visa Australia Cost:
- The base application fee is approx AUD $2,000 (as of July 2025).
You’ll also need cash for:
- Health insurance (OSHC – it’s mandatory).
- Medical check-ups (to prove you’re healthy).
- English tests like IELTS or PTE (to prove language proficiency).
- Police checks from your home country.
How to Apply for Student Visa Australia
Get CoE:
Before you apply, you need a Confirmation of Enrollment. This means:
- You’ve been accepted by an Aussie institution.
- You have paid your first semester fees (or at least a deposit).
- The university/college sends you this official letter
Create your ImmiAccount:
- Go to the Department of Home Affairs website and set up an account. This is where everything happens – uploading docs & tracking your application. Make sure you remember your password.
Gather your paperwork:
You need:
- Your passport (make sure it’s valid for at least 6 months)
- CoE
- Bank statements
- Your health insurance policy
- English test scores
- Medical exam results
- Police clearance
- Passport photos
Pro tip: Make digital copies of everything. Scan it, photograph it, save it in three different places. Trust me on this.
The Genuine Student Requirement:
The Australian government wants to know you’re actually coming to study, not just using education as a sneaky way to move there. So, write a statement explaining:
- Why did you pick this specific course?
- Why Australia? Why not stay home or go somewhere else?
- What do you want to do after graduation?
- How does this fit into your career goals?
How Long Will This Take?
- It varies. Some people hear back in a few weeks, others wait months. The department says to apply at least 6 weeks before your course starts, but give yourself 3-4 months if possible.
- During this time, check your emails obsessively. They might ask for extra stuff or want you to come in for an interview. Whatever they ask for, send it ASAP.
The 485 Visa Australia: Your Post-Graduation Bonus
The 485 visa Australia (also called the graduate visa Australia) lets you stay for around 2-3 years after finishing your degree.
What do you need?
- You must’ve had a student visa recently (within the last 6 months).
- Finished your course at a properly registered institution.
- Still have your health insurance.
- Be under 50 years old.
Where Can You Work While Studying?
Your student visa lets you work 48 hours every two weeks during the semester. When you’re on holiday, work as much as you want.
Most international students work in:
- Cafes and restaurants (Australia’s cafe culture is huge).
- Retail shops.
- University admin offices.
- Tutoring (especially if you’re good at math or languages).
The money helps with living expenses, plus you meet locals and actually practice your English in real situations.
Things That’ll Get Your Visa Rejected
Money troubles
- Can’t prove they have enough funds.
- Dodgy bank statements.
- Can’t explain where the money came from.
Unconvincing study plans
- The course makes no sense with their background (like a chef suddenly wanting to study engineering).
- Can’t explain why they need to study in Australia specifically.
- Random career plans.
Document disasters:
- Missing papers.
- Expired documents.
- Bad translations.
- Inconsistent information.
Health or character issues:
- Failed medical tests.
- Criminal record.
- Previous visa violations in any country.
How to Get a Student visa Australia:
- Start early, don’t be that person applying 3 weeks before their course starts. Give yourself time.
- Check and submit accurate documents as per the requirement.
- Get help if you’re confused; your university has international student advisors – use them! They’ve seen hundreds of applications. Or hire a registered migration agent if you can afford it.
- Keep copies of everything.
Action Plan:
After learning all this, one thing you simply can’t overlook is achieving a high score in your English language proficiency test, whether it’s PTE or IELTS. Most top universities around the world expect strong scores in these exams, as they reflect your readiness to study in an English-speaking environment.
To help you reach that goal, Gurully offers a complete preparation platform with full-length mock tests that come with highly accurate AI-based scoring. You’ll also receive a detailed performance analysis after each test, allowing you to identify your weak areas and focus on improving them effectively. With consistent practice on Gurully, you can approach your exam day with confidence and a clear strategy for success.
Start your free PTE mock test with Gurully and get AI-powered analysis for a personalized journey.
- Kickstart your PTE prep with a free AI-scored mock test
- Boost your score with in-depth analysis & smart recommendations
FAQ:
How much bank balance is required for a student visa in Australia?
Can my family join me on a student visa 500?
How many hours can a student work in Australia?
Can I visit my home country while studying in Australia?
How much is the student visa fee in Australia?
Is it difficult to get a student visa for Australia?
Also Read:
- Best Countries To Study Abroad – Global Education Trends 2025
- Know Top 25 Study Abroad Consultants in India
