The Subclass 500 Student Visa allows international students to study in Australia for a specified period. Whether you’re planning to undertake a short-term English language course or pursue a higher education degree, the Student visa (Subclass 500) is a crucial step in your journey to study in Australia. With world-class educational institutions and a vibrant multicultural environment, Australia has become a popular destination for students globally.

The Subclass 500 Student Visa allows international students to stay in Australia while studying at an eligible Australian educational institution. This visa is designed to provide the right to study full-time and in many cases, allows students to work part-time during their stay.
 
This guide breaks down the Subclass 500 Student Visa application process, eligibility requirements, benefits, and answers the most common questions about the visa.
 

Key Features of the Subclass 500 Student Visa:
 

• Study at an Australian Institution: The visa is issued for students intending to enroll in a full-time registered course in Australia.

• Stay Duration: The duration of the visa depends on the length of the course but can be issued for up to five years.

• Work Rights: Students are allowed to work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the academic term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks.

• Family Members: You may be able to bring eligible family members to Australia as part of your visa application.
   

 
Eligibility Requirements for the Subclass 500 Student Visa
 
To be eligible for the Subclass 500 Student Visa, applicants must meet several key requirements:
 
1. Enrollment in a Full-Time Course

• You must be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course in Australia, which is a requirement for international students.
   

2. Financial Capacity

• You must demonstrate that you have enough financial resources to pay for your tuition, living expenses, and travel costs for yourself and any family members applying with you. The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence of financial support, such as bank statements or sponsorships.
   

3. English Language Proficiency

• You may be required to show proof of your English language proficiency, depending on the course and institution you are applying to. Acceptable tests include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Cambridge English but most people will go for PTE and IELTS.
   

4. Health Insurance

• International students are required to have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay in Australia. This is mandatory for all student visa applicants.
   

5. Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement

• You must satisfy the GTE requirement, which means proving that you intend to stay in Australia temporarily and return to your home country once your studies are completed. This involves demonstrating your genuine intention to study in Australia, not just to enter for other purposes.
   

6. Meet Health and Character Requirements

• You and your family members may need to undergo health examinations and provide police clearance certificates to meet Australian health and character standards.
   

 
How to Apply for the Subclass 500 Student Visa
 
The application process for the Subclass 500 Student Visa is relatively straightforward, but attention to detail is important. Here is a step-by-step guide:
 
Step 1: Obtain a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE)

• Before applying, you must have received a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) from a registered Australian educational institution. This document confirms that you have been accepted into an eligible full-time course.
   

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

• You will need to provide several documents, such as:

  • Valid Passport

  • Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE)

  • Financial evidence (e.g., bank statements, sponsor letters)

  • English language proficiency evidence

  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

  • GTE Statement (if applicable)
     

Step 3: Apply Online

• Submit your visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs website. Complete the application form, upload the required documents, and pay the visa application fee.
   

Step 4: Wait for a Decision

• The processing time for the Subclass 500 Student Visa varies, but most applications are processed within 4 to 6 weeks. If additional information is required, the Department may request it.
   

Step 5: Receive Your Visa Grant Notification

• Once your visa is granted, you will receive a visa grant notice with details such as your visa conditions, validity, and travel permissions.
   

 
Benefits of the Subclass 500 Student Visa
 
The Subclass 500 Student Visa offers a wide range of benefits for international students:

• Study at World-Class Institutions: Australia is home to numerous top-ranking universities and educational institutions.

• Work Rights: Students are allowed to work part-time, providing an opportunity to gain work experience while studying and support themselves financially.

• Post-Study Work Opportunities: After completing your studies, you may be eligible to apply for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) to gain work experience in Australia.

• Family Members: You may be able to bring eligible family members to Australia on the same visa.
   

 
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
 
1. How long can I stay in Australia on the Subclass 500 Student Visa?

• The Subclass 500 Student Visa is generally granted for the duration of your course plus additional time for travel. The visa can be granted for up to five years, depending on the course and level of study.
   

2. Can I work while studying with a Subclass 500 Student Visa?

• Yes, the Subclass 500 Student Visa allows you to work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the academic term and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Make sure to comply with the work-hour limits.
   

3. What is the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for the Subclass 500 visa?

• The GTE requirement is a statement you must provide to prove that you intend to stay in Australia temporarily for the purpose of study. It is essential for visa approval and can include your educational background, ties to your home country, and post-study plans.
   

4. How much money do I need to show for the Subclass 500 Student Visa?

• The required financial proof depends on the length of your stay, but you must show that you can support yourself during your studies. Generally, you need to demonstrate that you can cover your tuition fees, living costs (around AUD 21,041 per year), and travel expenses.
   

5. Can I bring my family with me on a Subclass 500 Student Visa?

• Yes, you can include eligible family members (spouse, children) in your Subclass 500 Student Visa application. Your family members must meet specific health and character requirements, and they can accompany you during your study period.
   

If you're planning to study in Australia, the Subclass 500 Student Visa is an essential step. Ensure your application is complete and meets all requirements. For personalized advice and assistance, contact our expert migration agents today! We’ll guide you through every step of the process to ensure your visa application is successful.