Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Start Your Global Career with an Australian Education
Australia is home to some of the world’s leading universities and vocational institutions. The Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows international students to live in Australia for the duration of their full-time study course.
What You Can Do With This Visa
Study Full-Time: Enrol in a registered CRICOS course in Australia.
Work Rights: Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during course terms and unlimited hours during scheduled semester breaks.
Travel: Travel in and out of Australia as many times as you want while your visa is valid.
Bring Family: You can include your partner and dependent children (unmarried, under 18) in your application.
Post-Study Pathways: Upon completing your studies, you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485).
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Subclass 500 visa, you must meet the Department of Home Affairs’ strict requirements:
1. Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
You must have a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for a full-time course registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).
Note: If you are applying from onshore, you generally cannot be holding a bridging visa while waiting for a substantively rejected visa appeal.
2. Genuine Student (GS) Requirement
Replaces the old Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criteria. You must demonstrate that you are a genuine student. This involves proving:
Your course is relevant to your background or future career.
You have genuine ties to your home country.
You are not using the student visa primarily to maintain ongoing residency in Australia.
3. English Language Proficiency
You may need to provide evidence of your English skills (e.g., IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL).
VET Courses: Generally require IELTS 5.5.
Higher Education: Generally require IELTS 6.0 – 6.5+.
Exemptions apply for students from certain countries or those who have completed recent studies in English.
4. Financial Capacity
You must prove you have enough money to pay for your travel, course fees, and living costs for you and your accompanying family members for the first 12 months of your stay.
5. Health & Character
Health: You must undergo a health examination by a Bupa Visa Medical Services panel physician.
Character: You must answer character-related questions and may need to provide police certificates.
6. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
It is mandatory to maintain adequate health insurance (OSHC) for the entire duration of your stay in Australia. CECA can assist you in comparing and purchasing the most affordable OSHC policies.
The Application Process: How CECA Helps
Applying for a student visa is not just about filling out a form; it’s about building a future strategy.
Step 1: Career Counseling & Course Selection We sit down with you to understand your career goals. We recommend courses that not only interest you but also offer strong employment prospects in Australia.
Step 2: Admission & Offer Letter We manage your application to the university or college. Once accepted, you receive a Letter of Offer.
Step 3: Tuition Payment & CoE We guide you through paying your tuition deposit. The institution then issues your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
Step 4: Visa Documentation & GTE/GS Statement Our migration agents draft a strong “Genuine Student” statement explaining the value of the course to your future, minimising the risk of refusal.
Step 5: Visa Lodgement We submit your application through ImmiAccount, ensuring all financial and identity documents are perfect.
Step 6: Visa Grant Start your journey! We also provide pre-departure briefings and onshore support once you arrive.
FAQs About Parent Visa (SUBCLASS 500)
How much gap is accepted for a Student Visa?
There is no fixed rule, but you must explain what you were doing during the gap (e.g., working, training). A gap of more than 2-3 years without valid work experience can be risky.
Can I work full-time during my studies?
No, generally you are limited to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session. However, you can work unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks (holidays).
Do I need OSHC if I already have travel insurance?
Yes. Standard travel insurance is not enough. You must hold an approved Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) policy specifically for international students.
