Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Student Visa (Subclass 500)
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Answers to common questions, based on current Department of Home Affairs requirements.
Our FAQ section is designed to address the most common questions about Australian immigration.
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The Student visa (subclass 500) lets you study full-time in Australia in a course registered on CRICOS, including English language (ELICOS) courses, vocational courses and university degrees. While your course is in session you can work up to 48 hours a fortnight.
- A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for each course, with some exceptions.
- Meet the Genuine Student requirement, showing that studying is the main reason for your visa.
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for your whole stay.
- English test results if required. Tests taken at home or fully online aren’t accepted.
- Health and character requirements, and adequate welfare arrangements if you are under 18.
You must show you can pay for 12 months of living costs, plus your first year of course fees, travel costs and school fees for any school-age children:
- Student: AUD29,710
- Partner: AUD10,394
- Child: AUD4,449
- Travel: AUD2,000 (AUD3,000 if applying from West Africa)
Alternatively, you can show your parents’ or partner’s annual income was at least AUD87,856 in the last 12 months, or AUD102,500 if family members are coming with you.
The visa application charge is from AUD2,500, up from AUD2,000 on 1 July 2026. Some applicants, including those from ASEAN countries, Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste, and students in stand-alone ELICOS or non-award courses, pay a lower charge. Figures current at September 2026.
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