Australia – Student Visa Subclass 500
By Australia is a leading destination for international students, known for its high-quality universities, multicultural society, and excellent lifestyle. The Student Visa Subclass 500 allows international students to study full-time in registered courses.
To begin, applicants must receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian institution. The visa application is submitted online and requires documentation including proof of financial capacity, English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE), Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), and a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement.
The GTE requirement assesses the applicant’s intention to stay in Australia temporarily. Applicants must also provide identity documents and undergo health and character checks.
Students on Subclass 500 visas can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic term and full-time during breaks. Spouses of master’s and PhD students can work unlimited hours.
After graduation, students can apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), which provides 18 months to 4 years of work rights depending on the qualification. Graduates from regional universities may be eligible for extended post-study work rights.
Australia’s education system emphasizes research, innovation, and employability. Universities often have strong ties to industry, offering internships and practical experience.
With its robust support for international students, streamlined visa processing, and career opportunities, Australia remains a top study destination.
Australia – Student Visa Subclass 500
Below is an in-depth overview of the Subclass 500 Student Visa, designed for international students enrolled in full-time studies in Australia:
1. Purpose & Eligibility
The Subclass 500 visa allows non-citizens to study full-time at a registered educational institution in Australia, including universities, TAFEs, private colleges, and secondary schools. To qualify, applicants must:
- Have an offer or enrolment confirmation from a CRICOS-registered institution.
- Prove sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living costs, and travel.
- Meet English proficiency requirements (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or equivalent).
- Have adequate health insurance (Overseas Student Health Cover, OSHC) for the duration of their stay.
- Be of good character and health (medical check may be required).
2. Application Process
- Letter of Offer: Obtain confirmation of enrolment from a CRICOS-approved institution.
- Gather Documents: Prepare proof of identity, financial capacity, English tests, OSHC, and health and character checks.
- Submit Online Application: Apply via the Australian immigration portal and pay the visa application fee.
- Await Decision: Processing times vary but an important assessment is based on meeting Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria, which evaluates genuine intent to study and return home afterward.
3. Visa Duration & Attendance
- The Student Visa is generally valid for the length of your course plus up to two additional months, allowing time for course completion and departure.
- For combined or sequential courses, multiple confirmations of enrolment can support staying through each stage.
- You are expected to maintain full-time, on-campus attendance and satisfactory academic progress throughout the study period.
4. Work Rights
Holders of the Subclass 500 visa can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during class sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks (e.g., holidays). Work must not interfere with academic obligations.
5. Study Load & Course Changes
- You must maintain a full study load as per course requirements each term or semester.
- Changing institutions, courses, or education levels requires immigration approval before academic transition.
6. Bringing Family Members
Students can include dependent family members (partner and/or children) in their visa application. Family members can typically work up to 48 hours per fortnight when studying medium or higher level courses, or 40 hours per fortnight at one school. Children can attend school at primary or secondary level in Australia.
7. Post‑Study Opportunities
Graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), which allows staying in Australia to work or train:
- Post‑Study Work Stream: Lasts 2 to 4 years depending on qualification level.
- Graduate Work Stream: Provides 18 months for those with qualifications linked to key occupations in demand.
8. Compliance & Obligations
To maintain your visa:
- Stay enrolled and meet course progression requirements.
- Notify the Department of Home Affairs of any changes in address, study status, contact details, or family composition within specified time frames.
- Continue to hold valid health insurance throughout your visa period.
Summary
The Subclass 500 visa is the primary pathway for international students studying in Australia. Key takeaways:
- Requires enrolment at a CRICOS-registered institution, proof of funds, English competency, and health cover.
- Permits limited work (48 hours per fortnight) during study, with full-time work allowed during official breaks.
- Dependent family members can accompany the student and may work under set conditions.
- After graduation, pathways like the Temporary Graduate Visa support gaining experience in Australia.
With proper planning, compliance, and awareness of responsibilities, the Subclass 500 visa offers robust support for academic pursuits and future professional opportunities in Australia.