Key requirements and eligibility criteria for the Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500)

Australia is a popular destination for international students to study, with world-class educational institutions in vibrant cities and excellent standard of living. To study in Australia, international students require a Student Visa (Subclass 500) for the duration of their course. Students can live, study, and work part-time in Australia with this visa, which is why it is crucial that you understand the important prerequisites and eligibility criteria for acquiring this visa before starting the application process. This is why it is crucial to seek the help of a certified immigration agent in Brisbane before starting your application.

Understanding the Subclass 500 Visa

International students who want to study full-time in Australia must apply for the Subclass 500 visa which covers a wide range of study programmes, including primary school, secondary school, vocational education, higher education, and English language courses. Depending on the duration of their studies, students can stay in Australia for up to five years with this visa and the help of migration agents.

Documentation requirements

A crucial step in the application process is gathering the necessary documentation. Applicants must provide several key documents to support their visa application, including:

Confirmation of enrollment (CoE)

This document confirms the student’s acceptance into an officially recognised Australian course. It is provided by the educational institution and is necessary in order to apply for a visa. The Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) must have the application on file for the applicant’s course. This guarantees the course meets the requirements established by the Australian government. The CoE is evidence of enrolment in a course that is registered with CRICOS and is provided by the educational institution.

Valid passport

The passport needs to be valid for the duration that the student intends to be in Australia. This is important as a passport that is about to expire or has expired may cause issues, delays, or even result in the application for a visa being denied. Ensure that the passport is valid for the duration of your studies as well as any extra time you may need for travel, accommodation, or post-study plans.

English proficiency test results

English language competency must be proven by non-native speakers. Tests like the PTE, TOEFL, and IELTS are acceptable. The course and the institution determine the necessary scores. Being able to communicate in English is essential for the Subclass 500 visa. The majority of academic institutions have language requirements, and applicants must meet specific requirements on accredited English language tests like the PTE, TOEFL, or IELTS. The course level and the policies of the institution determine the required score. A higher education course, for example, can need a better grade than a vocational education course.

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

For prospective students, health insurance is a requirement to study in Australia. Hospital and medical costs are covered by OSHC while they are staying in Australia. All international students studying in Australia must complete OSHC. This health insurance covers medical and hospital care, helping students manage healthcare costs during their stay. Students must purchase OSHC before arriving in Australia and maintain it for the entire duration of their visa.

Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement

The applicant’s reason to study temporarily in Australia is explained in this statement. It must contain information on their prior coursework, employment history, and ties to their home country. The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement ensures that the student is a real temporary resident of Australia. The GTE statement should include the student’s long-term goals and how the Australian course will help them achieve them. It must also include the student’s academic and work history, an explanation for any gaps in education or employment, and information about family, employment, and other ties to the home country that would motivate the student to return after finishing their studies.

Financial evidence

Applicants need to prove that they have the money necessary to pay for their education, living expenses, and travel. This can include bank statements, scholarship offers, or financial assurances from sponsors. Studying in Australia is very expensive, and the Department of Home Affairs demands documentation proving students will be able to support themselves while they are here. Candidates must show that they have the money to pay living expenses, which as of 2024 would cost students AUD 21,041 annually, as well as tuition fees, which vary based on the subject and school.

Any additional money is required for any family members who are travelling with you. Students also need to have enough money to pay for all of their travel expenses, including the cost of their return ticket home. Financial evidence that is acceptable may consist of savings accounts, loans, scholarships, or sponsorships. All financial documents must be genuine and verifiable.

Health and Character Requirements

The Australian government has set conditions for applicants’ health and character in order for them to be eligible for the Subclass 500 visa. To show that they are in good health, students may be required to have a chest X-ray and medical examination performed by a panel physician who has been approved. In addition, applicants need to fill out a character declaration form and provide a police clearance certificate from each nation they have resided in for 12 months or longer within the previous ten years.

Applying for the visa

Once all the necessary documents are gathered, the application can be lodged online through the Department of Home Affairs website. Here’s a brief overview of the application process:

1. Create an ImmiAccount: This online account is used to submit and track the visa application.
2. Complete the Application Form: Fill out the online form with accurate and up-to-date information.
3. Attach Documents: Upload all required documents, including the CoE, passport, English test results, OSHC, financial evidence, and GTE statement.
4. Pay the Visa Application Fee: The fee must be paid online at the time of application. As of 2024, the base application charge is $650 AUD.
5. Submit Biometrics: Depending on the applicant’s nationality, they may need to provide biometrics at a designated centre.
6. Attend an Interview: In some cases, the Department of Home Affairs may request an interview to assess the application.

Prospective students can increase their chances of a successful visa application by understanding and meeting the eligibility criteria. Each stage in the application process, from obtaining the necessary documents to proving your financial capability and meeting health and character standards, is critical. Students can benefit from speaking with immigration agents in Brisbane with experience in migration services for tailored guidance and support.