The Australian Student Visa Subclass 500 allows international students to study full-time at an accredited Australian educational institution. This visa covers a wide range of courses including university degrees, vocational training, English language courses, and school-level education. It also permits limited work rights and allows eligible family members to accompany the student.
The Subclass 500 visa is administered by the Australian Department of Home Affairs and is designed to ensure that students meet genuine study intentions, financial capacity, and academic preparedness requirements while complying with Australian immigration laws.
Official information about this visa is available at
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500
Key Benefits of the Subclass 500 Visa
Holders of the Subclass 500 visa enjoy several advantages, including:
- Legal permission to study full-time in Australia
- Ability to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods
- Full-time work rights during semester breaks
- Option to include family members
- Eligibility to apply for post-study work visas
- Multiple entry and exit flexibility
These benefits make Australia a top destination for international students seeking both academic excellence and global exposure.
Who Can Apply for the Subclass 500 Visa
The Subclass 500 visa is suitable for individuals who:
- Have received an offer from an Australian institution
- Intend to study a registered course
- Meet English language requirements
- Have adequate financial resources
- Are genuine temporary entrants
- Meet health and character standards
Applicants must demonstrate that their primary purpose for travel is education.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Student Visa Subclass 500
Step 1: Receive Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
You must enrol in a course at an Australian institution and receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). This document is required to initiate your visa application.
You can verify if your institution is registered using the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) at
https://cricos.education.gov.au
Step 2: Create an ImmiAccount
Applicants must apply online using the Australian Government’s ImmiAccount portal. This platform allows you to submit your application and monitor its progress.
Create your account at
https://online.immi.gov.au
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
Prepare all mandatory documents, including:
- Valid passport
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
- Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- English language test results (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, etc.)
- Proof of financial capacity:
- Bank statements
- Sponsorship letters
- Loan approval or scholarship confirmation
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Previous visa copies (if applicable)
All documents must be clear, accurate, and properly formatted.
Step 4: Write the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Statement
The GTE statement is a critical part of the application. It must explain:
- Your intention to study in Australia
- Why you chose the specific course and institution
- Your education and employment history
- Your reasons for returning to your home country after studies
- How the course aligns with your career goals
This statement plays a major role in approval decisions.
Step 5: Submit the Visa Application
Log in to your ImmiAccount, complete the online application form, upload all required documents, and review your information carefully before submission.
Application portal:
https://online.immi.gov.au
Step 6: Pay the Visa Application Fee
The current visa application fee must be paid online during submission. Fees are subject to change, so always verify the latest amount through
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/visa-pricing-estimator
Step 7: Biometrics and Health Examination
You may be required to provide biometrics and undergo a health examination. These appointments will be scheduled after submission based on your application profile.
Approved medical exam panel locations can be checked at
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/contact-us/offices-and-locations/list
Step 8: Await Visa Decision
Processing time varies depending on your country, course level, and application complexity. You can track your status via your ImmiAccount dashboard.
Estimated processing times can be checked at
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-processing-times
Financial Requirements for Subclass 500
Applicants must prove they can cover:
- Tuition fees
- Living expenses
- Travel costs
- Dependent expenses (if applicable)
Acceptable evidence includes:
- Personal or sponsor bank statements
- Education loans
- Scholarship documents
- Government financial guarantees
Failure to meet financial requirements is a leading cause of visa refusals.
Work Rights on Subclass 500
While studying, visa holders are allowed:
- Up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods
- Unlimited hours during official course breaks
However, working before your course officially begins is not allowed.
Including Family Members
You may include dependents such as a spouse and children in your visa application. Additional financial proof and documentation are required to demonstrate your capacity to support them.
Common Reasons for Visa Refusal
- Weak GTE statement
- Insufficient financial proof
- Inconsistent documentation
- Invalid English test results
- Non-genuine study intent
- Inadequate academic background
- Health or character concerns
Avoiding these issues greatly increases approval chances.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Choose a course aligned with your academic history
- Write a strong and logical GTE statement
- Provide clear financial documentation
- Apply early before course commencement
- Ensure documents are genuine and verifiable
- Double-check all information for accuracy
- Keep your passport valid for the full study duration
After Your Visa Is Approved
You will receive a Visa Grant Notification outlining your:
- Visa conditions
- Duration of stay
- Work rights
- Entry details
You should print and keep this document for travel and compliance purposes.
Maintaining Visa Compliance
While in Australia, students must:
- Remain enrolled in an approved course
- Maintain satisfactory attendance and progress
- Notify address changes
- Comply with work hour limits
- Extend visa before expiration if continuing studies
Violations may result in visa cancellation.
Pathways After Graduation
Graduates may apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), allowing them to gain post-study work experience in Australia.
Details are available at
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/temporary-graduate-485
Final Thoughts
Applying for the Australian Student Visa Subclass 500 requires careful planning, accurate documentation, and a clear demonstration of genuine intent. By following each step carefully and using official government resources, students can significantly improve their chances of approval.
With proper preparation and compliance, the Subclass 500 visa opens the door to world-class education, global career opportunities, and a rich cultural experience in Australia.
Anjola Adebanjo