Are you considering studying abroad and pursuing courses in Australia in 2023? As an international student, obtaining an Australian student visa is a crucial step toward achieving your academic and career goals. However, the visa application process can be daunting, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the requirements and procedures involved. In this article, we will guide you through the process of obtaining an Australian student visa in 2023, so you can confidently pursue the courses you want and experience the many benefits of studying abroad in Australia. With our expert tips and insights, you’ll have everything you need to make a successful visa application and kick-start your study abroad journey.

The Student Visa (subclass 500)

Implemented on July 1, 2016, a subclass 500 student visa allows you to remain in Australia during the duration of your study program, which typically lasts up to five years and is aligned with your enrollment date. To have a seamless stay, it is important to keep your visa valid and comply with the student visa conditions listed on your visa.

Subclass 500 visa coverage

With this visa, you can:

  • Enroll in your preferred study program and university
  • Bring your family members to Australia with you
  • Dependents can apply for a dependent visa to accompany the main applicant
  • Benefit from a straightforward and streamlined visa process for all students
  • Apply for the visa either within or outside of Australia through an online portal.

Interested in studying in Australia? Check out more related articles to learn further.

Top reasons why you should study in Australia What is the Cost of Studying in Australia?
Top 30 interesting facts about Australia Top 10 Scholarships to study in Australia 2023

Preliminary Requirements for Application

Before applying for the visa, you should:

  • Have enrolled in your intended study program in Australia
  • Have obtained Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your program
  • Be at least 6 years old
  • Provide proof of welfare arrangements made in Australia, if you are under 18 years of age.

Documents required for an Australian student visa

When applying for your student visa to study in Australia, you will generally need:

  • Proof of enrolment (your electronic confirmation of enrolment eCOE)
  • A valid passport
  • Your visa application fee
  • Your Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
  • Academic and work experience documents
  • Evidence of your English proficiency skills (such as IELTS test scores)
  • Evidence of financial ability (tuition fees, living expenses, expenses for dependents, return airfare)
  • Details of your health insurance policy (OSHC)
  • Passport-sized photographs
  • If you are under 18 years of age, you will also need to provide additional documents such as parental consent.

Submitting a Visa Application Online

To submit your student visa application, you will need to create an account using the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) online application system, called ImmiAccount. This platform allows you to complete and submit your application and also track its status once submitted. It is recommended that you submit your application no later than six weeks prior to the start of your course, but no earlier than 12 weeks.

Visa fee

As an international student, you must pay visa fees as per the below category you fall in:

Visa subclass Base application charge Additional applicant charges if 18 years or above Additional applicant charges if less than 18 years The subsequent temporary application charge
Student visa (subclass 500) AUD $630 AUD $460 AUD $150 AUD $700
Student visa (subclass 500)(subsequent entrant) AUD $620 AUD $460 AUD $150 AUD $700
Student visa (subclass 500)– Foreign Affairs or Defence sector nil nil nil nil
Student visa (subclass 500) – Postgraduate research sector AUD $620 nil nil nil

English Language Proficiency Requirements

To obtain an Australian student visa, you must provide evidence of your proficiency in the English language. This usually requires passing a recognized English language test to demonstrate your ability to communicate and understand written correspondence.

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a widely recognized and widely used test of English language proficiency, taken by millions of people each year for study, work, and migration purposes. The results of the IELTS test are recognized by more than 10,000 organizations, including universities, employers, professional associations, and governments in 140 countries around the world.

While the minimum IELTS score required for a student visa is 5.5, a higher score may be necessary to gain admission to top universities. Additionally, the required IELTS score may vary depending on the course of study, with subjects such as business, IT, and engineering typically requiring a score of 6.5, and fields like nursing, physiotherapy, and teaching requiring a score of 7.0 or higher. To determine the appropriate score for your desired course of study, it is recommended to seek guidance from experts, such as IDP’s international education specialists.

To keep your student visa valid, you must:

  • Stay enrolled and meet the academic requirements of your course, including regular attendance
  • Notify your university or college of any changes to your contact information, including your address
  • Have the financial means to support yourself while in Australia
  • Comply with the work restrictions specified on your visa
  • If you plan to change the level of your education, you will need to apply for a new student visa.