The Student Visa (Subclass 500) offers an exciting opportunity for international students to experience Australia’s quality education system. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the necessary information to apply for this visa and enjoy its benefits.
What is the Student Visa (Subclass 500)?
The Student Visa (Subclass 500) is a type of visa that allows international students to live, work, and study full-time in Australia for a maximum of five years, in line with their course. This visa is an essential step for students who wish to study in Australia, offering them a chance to gain quality education and potentially transition to other visas down the line.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Student Visa (Subclass 500), you must be enrolled in a course of study in Australia and maintain adequate health insurance cover. Your enrolment must be confirmed by the education provider through a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
The academic requirements, including English language level, will vary depending on the course you want to study. Here’s a general guide:
- English language courses: See ‘Proof of English Proficiency’ below for more details.
- Schools: Entry requirements vary between schools, and sometimes by state and territory.
- Vocational education and training (VET): In most cases, there are no entrance exams for VET institutions. However, some courses may require you to have studied specific subjects or completed work experience.
- Higher education undergraduate courses: You will need to have an Australian Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (Year 12) or equivalent. Some undergraduate courses may also have specific prerequisite subjects.
- Higher education postgraduate courses: You must have completed at least one degree at the undergraduate level. Education providers may also consider your research ability or relevant work experience.
Applying for the Student Visa
To apply for your Student Visa, you will need to supply the following documents:
- Certificates that verify your previous study, including any qualifications you already have.
- Evidence of your English language proficiency.
- Certificates or documents that verify previous study or work experience if you are seeking course credits. These must be translated into English.
Benefits of the Student Visa
The Student Visa lets you live in Australia to study full-time at a recognised education institution. You can also include family members in your application. Furthermore, you are allowed to work up to 40 hours every two weeks during your course session and unrestricted hours during any scheduled course break.
Visa Fees
In Australia, student visa fees start from AUD$650 per visa application unless you are exempt. The processing times vary from person to person.
Detailed Student Visa Requirements
To apply for an international student visa, you need:
- Letter of Offer: If your application is successful, you will receive a Letter of Offer from your chosen education provider. Make sure to read the Letter of Offer carefully before you accept it. It will include your course details, enrolment conditions, and fees you will need to pay if you accept the offer.
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): A CoE is a document issued by your education provider that verifies your enrolment in a specific course. The CoE will be sent to you after you have accepted your offer and paid your deposit. You must include a copy of this document in your visa application.
- Proof of English Proficiency: If you are not a native English language speaker, you’ll need to supply a certificate of results from an approved English language test. The minimum IELTS score needed for different study levels are as follows: ELICOS: 4.5, VET: 5.5, Undergraduate: 6.0, Postgraduate: 6.5. Test scores from other examinations such as TOEFL, PTE, CAE, and OET are also accepted.
The Student Visa (Subclass 500) offers a pathway to quality education and a unique Australian experience. Remember to thoroughly check all the requirements and prepare all the necessary documents to ensure a successful application. Good luck on your educational journey!