Australia Student Visa Subclass 500: Complete Application Guide for International Students (2026)

Australia remains one of the most popular destinations for international students due to its globally recognised universities, post-study work opportunities, and high quality of life. If you plan to study in Australia, you will need the Student Visa Subclass 500, which allows eligible students to live, study, and work in Australia for the duration of their course.

This guide explains everything you need to know — from eligibility to step-by-step application.

What Is the Australia Student Visa Subclass 500?

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) is an Australian temporary visa that allows international students to:

• Study full-time at an approved Australian institution

• Stay in Australia for the length of their course

• Work part-time while studying

• Include eligible family members in the application

This visa is issued by the Australian Department of Home Affairs and applies to all education levels, including English courses, vocational training, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs.

Who Can Apply?

You can apply for the Subclass 500 visa if you:

✔ Have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian institution
✔ Meet the Genuine Student (GS) requirement
✔ Show financial capacity to support yourself
✔ Meet English language requirements (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL or exemptions)
✔ Have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
✔ Meet health and character requirements

Required Documents

Here are the key documents you need:

• Valid international passport

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

• Genuine Student (GS) statement

• Proof of financial capacity

• English language test results (if required)

• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

• Academic certificates and transcripts

• Passport-size photographs

📌 Important: All documents must be clear, genuine, and uploaded online.

Financial Requirements

Applicants must show enough funds to cover:

• Tuition fees

• Living costs

• Travel expenses

The Australian government sets a minimum annual living cost threshold, which applicants must meet using personal funds, sponsor support, or scholarships.

Acceptable financial proof includes:

• Bank statements

• Sponsor letters

• Loan approval letters

• Scholarship award letters

Processing Time

Student visa processing time depends on the education sector and country of application. On average:

• Processing can take a few weeks to several months

• Incomplete applications may take longer or be refused

Submitting accurate documents significantly improves approval chances.

Work Rights on Subclass 500

With this visa, students can work:

• Up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods

• Unlimited hours during official school holidays

This allows students to support themselves financially while studying.

Can You Extend or Change Your Visa?

Yes. You may apply for:

• A new student visa if you change courses

• A Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) after graduation (if eligible)

Australia also offers long-term pathways to skilled work visas and permanent residence.

Final Advice

Australia’s Subclass 500 visa is straightforward when done correctly. The most common reasons for refusal include:

• Weak Genuine Student statement

• Insufficient financial proof

• Inconsistent academic history

Preparation and honesty are key.

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