The Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500) lets international students study full-time in Australia for up to five years while working part-time. This guide explains the eligibility criteria, English language requirements, work rights, and the step-by-step Subclass 500 application process for 2026.
Before applying, review the Australian Genuine Student test requirements.
Students pursuing a master’s or doctorate by research, however, are not limited in their work. With over 1,200 universities offering over 22,000 courses, Australia is home to the third-most overseas students. International students can apply for fully financed scholarships at many Australian universities.
See the Australian BS MS PhD Scholarships page. The English language requirements have also been changed by the Australian government. The score on the IELTS test rises from 5.5 to 6. I’ll do all in my power to provide you with all the details you need to apply for an Australian student visa, including the qualifying standards. Please find comprehensive instructions on applying for a student visa (subclass 500) to study in Australia below
Why Apply for an Australia Student Visa?
Australia is home to over 1,200 universities and colleges offering 22,000+ courses in science, arts, healthcare, technology, and business. Subclass 500 students can:
- Work part-time up to 48 hours every two weeks during semester, and full-time during vacations.
- Access high-quality education at globally ranked institutions such as the University of Melbourne, Australian National University, and University of Sydney.
- Receive scholarships such as the Australian National University AGRTP Scholarship and Flinders University AGRTP Scholarship.
- Gain post-study work rights and practical Australian work experience after graduation.
- Pursue permanent residency through skilled migration programs.
- Bring family members with certain visa options, with spouses potentially eligible to work.
Benefits of Studying in Australia
Access to Quality Education
Students gain degrees recognized worldwide with modern facilities, laboratories, and research centers.
Work While Studying
Students can manage living expenses through part-time employment, such as on-campus roles or internships.
Post-Study Work Opportunities
Graduates may qualify for a Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) for 18 months to 4 years depending on their course.
Pathway to PR
Completing studies can earn points for Australia’s skilled migration programs, leading to permanent residency.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Many universities offer fully funded scholarships, grants, and bursaries for international students.
Cultural Diversity & Safe Living
Australia ranks high in global safety indexes, offering a multicultural environment for personal and professional development.
If you are comparing study destinations, see our guide on how to apply for a Japan student visa.
Step-by-Step Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500) Application – 2026
Step 1 – Get a Letter of Offer
- Apply to your chosen university.
- Receive a Letter of Offer detailing the course, fees, and schedule.
- Save a copy for your visa application.
Step 2 – Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
- Accept the offer to obtain a CoE, required for the visa application.
Step 3 – English Language Proficiency
- Minimum scores required:
- IELTS: 6.0
- TOEFL: 64
- Cambridge English Advanced: 169
- PTE: 50
- OET: B in all components
- Exemptions: Nationals of the UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland.
Step 4 – Genuine Student Requirement
- Answer online visa questions truthfully.
- Topics: your current situation, course choice, career plan, and motivation to study in Australia.
Step 5 – Proof of Funds
- Show sufficient funds to cover tuition, living expenses, and OSHC.
- Minimum requirement: AUD 62,222 per year for parent/guardian income or scholarships.
Step 6 – Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Mandatory for the visa.
- Covers hospital, medical, pharmacy, and ambulance services.
- Some scholarships include OSHC coverage.
Step 7 – Health Requirements
- May require a medical checkup or X-rays depending on your country of residence.
Step 8 – Character Requirements
- Police clearance certificate or other official character verification is required.
Step 9 – Apply Online via ImmiAccount
- Submit your application with all supporting documents: CoE, English test results, OSHC, proof of funds, and health/character certificates.
Australia Student Visa Cost (Subclass 500)
- Visa Application Fee: AUD 710 (subject to change)
- Additional costs: OSHC, course fees, and living expenses.
Official Source: Australian Department of Home Affairs – Student Visa
Conclusion:
Getting a Letter of Offer from your selected university, proving you speak English well, proving you are a real student, proving you have money, getting Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), fulfilling health and character requirements, and applying online through ImmiAccount are all part of the process of applying for an Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500). To guarantee a smooth application procedure, keep up-to-date on the official Australian Student Visa website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Applications are lodged online, so read the Australia visa online application process first.
Subclass 500 Document Checklist for 2026
What is the Subclass 500 student visa?
The Subclass 500 is Australia’s main student visa, allowing full-time study at a registered institution for up to five years. It includes limited work rights and requires a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
How many hours can I work on an Australia student visa?
Students can generally work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Masters-by-research and PhD students face no work-hour limits.
What English test score do I need for an Australia student visa?
Australia raised the minimum English scores for student visas, so check the current requirement for your education sector before applying. Equivalent PTE, TOEFL, and Cambridge scores are also accepted.
What is the Genuine Student requirement?
The Genuine Student (GS) test replaced the Genuine Temporary Entrant requirement and assesses whether you genuinely intend to study in Australia. Officers consider your circumstances, immigration history, and understanding of the course.
Students who want to work while traveling should look at the Australia Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462).
Keep track of policy changes with our Australia skilled visa update.
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