Australia Student Visas: Requirements, Processing Time, and Fees

Everything you need to know about Australia Student Visas: Requirements, Processing Time, and Fees

Studying in Australia offers international students a world-class education and a culturally enriching experience. However, before embarking on this journey, it is crucial to understand the process and requirements of obtaining an Australian student visa. 

In this comprehensive guide by MSM Unify overseas education consultant, we will cover everything you need to know, including the visa requirements, processing time, fees, and band requirements for Australian study visas.

Types of Australia student visa

Primarily, there are two categories of Australian student and training visas: Both of these visas are temporary and permit the visa holder to stay in the country for a limited duration. Take a look:

Type of Australia student visa

Description

Student visa subclass 500 For international students attending full-time in any Australian university, they need to apply for a Student visa Subclass 500. International students can apply for a student visa as soon as they receive their Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE). Those taking a four-year course are eligible to apply for this Subclass 500 visa. The Subclass 500 visa is valid for five years, with the possibility of an extension under certain circumstances.
Training visa subclass 407 Training visa subclass 407 allows you to take part in workplace-based occupational training activities in Australia to improve your abilities and skills for employment, tertiary study area, field of expertise, or a professional development training program in the country. This is a temporary visa that allows you to stay in Australia for up to two years.
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Australia student visa: Eligibility criteria

To study in Australia, you must obtain a student visa (Subclass 500). The first step is to ensure that you meet the visa requirements. The general requirements for an Australian student visa are as follows:

Australian student visa fees

As for the visa fees, the cost for an Australian student visa ranges from AUD 415 to AUD 1,600, depending on the type and duration of the visa. It is essential to check the current fees on the Department of Home Affairs website before submitting your application. Take a look at the fee structure as noted in July 2024:

Student visa type

Cost to the main applicant

Student Visa (Subclass 500)From AUD 1,600, unless exempt
Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)From AUD 1,600
Training Visa (Subclass 407)From AUD 415

*Please note: The amount is variable, it is important to check the official website for updated information.

Australian student visa: Documentation required

In order to apply for the student visa (Subclass 500), you need to prepare yourself in advance for the requisite documentation. These requirements may change with time, so make sure you visit the official website for the latest information on documentation requirements. However to give you a fair idea, below are listed the key documents required for student visa application in the country.

Please note: For a detailed list of documents required for the visa process, visit the official website.

English language proficiency requirement for Australia student visa:

English language proficiency is a crucial requirement for an Australian student visa. The band requirement refers to the minimum score you must achieve in an accepted English proficiency test. The commonly accepted tests and their band requirements are as follows:

It is important to note that some institutions may require higher English language proficiency scores, especially for competitive programs or courses with specific language requirements.

Australian student visa: Application process

Once you have confirmed that you meet the requirements, you can proceed with the Australia student visa application process. The steps involved are as follows:

Australian student visa process

Choose a course and education provider
Apply and receive Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
Create an ImmiAccount
Pay the visa application fee
Provide supporting documents
Submit the application
Attend a biometric appointment (if required)
Await the visa decision

Research and select the course you wish to study and the education provider you want to enroll with. Ensure that they are CRICOS registered.

Submit your application to the chosen institution, pay the necessary fees, and receive your CoE, which is a document required for your visa application.

Create an account on the Department of Home Affairs’ online portal, ImmiAccount, and complete the student visa application form.

Pay the relevant visa application fee, which depends on the type of visa and your location.

Attach the required supporting documents, such as your CoE, proof of financial capacity, health insurance, and English proficiency results.

Once you have completed the form and attached all the necessary documents, submit your visa application online through your ImmiAccount.

In certain cases, you may be required to provide your biometric information at an Australian visa application center in your country.

The processing time for Australian student visas varies, but it typically ranges from 1 to 4 weeks. You can track the status of your application using your ImmiAccount..

Australian student visa processing time

Australian student visa processing time depends on various factors, including the type of visa, your location, and the time of year. On average, the visa processing times are:

Please note: Australian student visa processing times are subject to change, and individual cases may vary; applicants are advised to regularly check official immigration channels for the latest updates.

Australian student visa validity:

Therefore, international students need to stay updated with the latest visa regulations to ensure they have accurate information about their visa validity. Here’s a table to help you understand the importance of visa validity when you are studying abroad:

Course duration

Visa validity

Longer than 10 months, ending in November/December Till March 15 of the following year. For example, if your course ends in December 2021, your visa will be valid until March 15, 2022.
Longer than 10 months yet ending between January and October Your visa will be valid for two months beyond the period of your course.. For example, if the course ends in Feb 2022, then your student visa will be granted till April 2022.
10 months or less Your visa will be valid for one month longer than the duration of your course.

Australian student visa SOP

Consider the following best practices while creating a SOP for your student visa to Australia:

Obtaining an Australian student visa is an essential step in pursuing your education in the country. By understanding the visa requirements, the application process, processing time, and band requirements for English language proficiency, you can navigate the process smoothly and increase your chances of a successful student visa application. 

Remember to always refer to the official Department of Home Affairs website or seek advice from a trusted education agent for the most up-to-date and accurate information. Best of luck with your Australian educational journey!

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FAQs

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Q. How to apply for a study visa in Australia?

In order to apply for a student visa in Australia, please visit the official Department of Home Affairs website. Arrange the requisite documents, and follow the instructions carefully while filling the application form for Australian student visa.

In order to apply for an Australian student visa, you need to have a bank balance of AUD 29,710 to cover one year’s tuition fees,  living expenses, return flights to and from Australia, and overseas student health insurance.

Most Australian universities permit a study gap of one to two years, which you must be able to justify with genuine reasons, backed by appropriate documentation.

A visitor visa in Australia allows you to study for a maximum of 3 months. You can use this visa to complete a short language course or a training program. However, if you want to pursue a degree course in Australia, you need to apply for a student visa (Subclass 500).

To renew your student visa in Australia, you must apply for a new one before your current one expires. Failure to do so may result in deportation and have a detrimental impact on your future visa applications.

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