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Student Visa (Subclass 500)

Last updated: 19 March 2026 · Reviewed by: ABEE'S Consultancy Team

Need help with your Student Visa? Book a telephonic consultation with our MARA-registered agents (Reg# 2217775).

What the Student Visa (500) Allows

Study Full-Time

Enrol in any CRICOS-registered course — ELICOS, VET, diploma, bachelor, master, or PhD — at an approved Australian provider.

Work Rights

48 hours per fortnight during study periods. Unlimited hours during official course breaks. Masters by Research/PhD dependants have unlimited rights.

Bring Your Family

Partner and dependent children can be included in your student visa application and live in Australia with you.

PR Pathway

Australian study may lead to the Subclass 485 Temporary Graduate Visa, then to skilled migration or employer-sponsored PR pathways.

Key Eligibility Requirements

CRICOS Enrolment (CoE)

You must hold a valid Confirmation of Enrolment from a CRICOS-registered Australian education provider before applying.

Genuine Student (GS) Requirement

Replaced the old GTE. Assessed on study purpose, course relevance, financial capacity, immigration history, and academic progression.

English Proficiency

IELTS 5.5 for direct entry, IELTS 5.0 for ELICOS package, IELTS 4.5 for standalone ELICOS. PTE/TOEFL accepted.

Financial Capacity

Must demonstrate funds: AUD 29,710/year for student, AUD 10,394 for partner, AUD 4,449 per child. Covers tuition, living, travel, and OSHC.

OSHC Insurance

Overseas Student Health Cover is mandatory for the duration of your stay in Australia.

Health & Character

Medical examination and police clearances are required. Under-18 applicants need approved welfare and accommodation arrangements.

Courses You Can Study

Higher Education

Bachelor, Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma, Master, PhD at universities.

VET & Diplomas

Certificate I–IV, Diploma, Advanced Diploma at TAFE and private colleges.

ELICOS & English

English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students — standalone or packaged with other qualifications.

How ABEE'S Consultancy Helps

1

Course & GS Strategy

We advise on course selection, course packaging, and prepare detailed Genuine Student responses aligned with the updated 2024–2025 legislation.

2

Document Preparation

We verify financial capacity, compile academic and English evidence, and ensure all documents meet Departmental standards.

3

Lodgement & Compliance

We lodge your application and provide ongoing compliance guidance — including course switching rules and attendance requirements after visa grant.

Documents Required

  • Passport and photographs
  • Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from CRICOS provider
  • English test results (IELTS / PTE / TOEFL)
  • Academic transcripts and previous qualifications
  • Financial evidence (bank statements, income, loan approval, sponsor documents)
  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) policy
  • Genuine Student responses (study plan, home country ties, education continuity)
  • Health examination results and police clearances

Frequently Asked Questions

English proficiency is required (IELTS 5.5 for direct entry, lower for ELICOS pathways). PTE and TOEFL are also accepted. Some nationalities and previous English study may provide exemptions.

For the duration of your CoE plus a buffer period. If you complete multiple qualifications, the visa covers the full study period.

No — 48 hours per fortnight during study periods. Unlimited during official course breaks. Dependants of Masters by Research or PhD students have unlimited work rights.

Need Expert Guidance?

Our MARA-registered consultants are here to help you navigate the process.

Book Telephonic Consultation