Subclass 500 – Student Visa
Your Gateway to Studying in Australia
The Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows international students to live, study, and work in Australia while undertaking a full-time course at a registered Australian educational institution. Whether you’re enrolling in a university, college, English language course, or vocational training program, this visa gives you the opportunity to pursue quality education and gain valuable international experience.
What You Can Do on a Student Visa
The Subclass 500 Student Visa lets international students live in Australia while undertaking full-time study at a registered institution. It offers the ability to work part-time, bring family, and travel during the visa period, making it ideal for those seeking both academic and cultural experiences in Australia.
Stay in Australia for up to 5 years
The visa allows you to remain in Australia for the duration of your course, up to five years, depending on your enrolment and study program.
Enrol in a CRICOS-registered course
You must study a full-time course that is registered with the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring it meets national education standards.
Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods
You can work part-time (up to 48 hours every two weeks) while your course is in session and work unlimited hours during official holiday breaks, helping support your living expenses.
Bring eligible family members
You may include your spouse or de facto partner and dependent children in your visa application. They can join you in Australia and, in some cases, may also study or work.
Travel in and out of Australia freely
The visa allows multiple entries and exits, so you can travel home or abroad during your course as long as your visa remains valid.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a Student Visa, you must:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Enrolment in a CRICOS Course | You must be enrolled in a full-time course registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). |
| Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) | A valid CoE issued by your Australian education provider is required to apply. |
| English Language Proficiency | You must meet the English requirement via tests like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or equivalent. |
| Sufficient Financial Capacity | Show evidence you can pay for tuition, travel, and living expenses during your stay. |
| Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) | You must have OSHC for the entire duration of your stay in Australia. |
| Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) | You must prove that you genuinely intend to study and return home after completing your course. |
| Health and Character Requirements | You must undergo a health check and provide police certificates to meet character requirements. |
You must also receive an invitation to apply from the Department of Home Affairs and must not have a previously cancelled visa or refused application that bars you from applying.
Step-by-Step Application Process for the Student Visa (Subclass 500)
The Subclass 500 Student Visa process involves enrolling in a CRICOS-approved course, submitting your application with supporting documents, and completing any required health or biometrics checks. Once approved, it allows you to study, work part-time, and live in Australia during your course.
Choose a Course and Obtain a CoE
Select an eligible full-time course from a CRICOS-registered institution and receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
Prepare Supporting Documents
Collect all necessary documents including: Financial evidence, Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, English language test results, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), Health and character documentation
Lodge Your Visa Application Online
Submit your visa application through the Department of Home Affairs online portal, attaching all required documents.
Complete Health and Biometrics Checks (if required)
Attend a medical examination and provide biometrics if requested by the department during processing.
Wait for a Decision
Visa processing times vary depending on your course and country of application. Once approved, you’ll receive your visa grant notice.
Need help with the process? Reach out to our Registered Migration Agents at info@openpathways.com or fill in the online enquiry form for a free eligibility check.
Cost of the Subclass 500 Visa
| Applicant Type | Visa Fee (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Primary applicant | $710 |
| Additional applicant (18+) | $530 |
| Additional applicant (under 18) | $175 |
Additional charges may apply for health checks, biometrics, and document translations.
What You Can Do on a Student Visa
With a Subclass 500 visa, you can:
Stay in Australia for up to 5 years (depending on your course length)
Enrol in an eligible CRICOS-registered course
Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, and unlimited hours during official breaks
Bring eligible family members, such as your spouse or children
Travel freely in and out of Australia while your visa is valid
Eligible Courses
You can apply for this visa if you are undertaking:
Higher Education (e.g., Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD)
Vocational Education and Training (e.g., diplomas, trade courses)
Secondary school studies
English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS)
Foundation studies or bridging courses
Work Rights and Limitations
You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic term
During holidays or semester breaks, you can work unlimited hours
Family members also have work rights (restrictions apply for dependents of undergrad students)
Extending Your Stay
If you want to continue your studies in Australia, you can apply for another Student Visa or consider transitioning to a graduate work visa (Subclass 485) upon completion of your course.
Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement
The GTE statement is a critical part of your application. You must demonstrate that you’re coming to Australia solely for study and intend to return home after completing your course. Factors assessed include:
Your academic and employment history
Your ties to your home country
The value of the course to your future
Previous visa history (if any)
Need help writing a strong GTE statement? Our team provides tailored support to make your case stand out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my course after getting the visa?
Yes, but changing your course or education provider may affect your visa conditions. You must notify the Department if you switch providers within the first 6 months.
Can I bring my family on a student visa?
Yes. Your partner and children can be included in your application or join you later.
Do I need to pay the full tuition before applying?
Not always. You generally need to pay the initial deposit and obtain the CoE. The full fee payment schedule depends on your education provider.
Begin Your Study Journey Today
Studying in Australia opens doors to global career opportunities and personal growth. Whether you’re aiming for a world-class university degree, vocational training, or language skills, the Subclass 500 visa is your first step.
