Commonwealth of Australia · study
Australian Student visa (subclass 500)
By Sam Parks · Last reviewed:
Study visa for international students enrolled at CRICOS-registered institutions.
- Processing time
- 4–12 weeks typical.
- Government fees
- AUD 1,600+.
- Typical duration
- Programme length plus small buffer.
- Sponsorship required
- Yes
- Leads to permanent residency
- No
Overview
Subclass 500 covers full-time study at CRICOS-registered institutions. Genuine Student (GS) requirements replaced Genuine Temporary Entrant from 2024. Post-study work rights are available via subclass 485.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from CRICOS-registered institution.
- ✓Genuine Student requirement.
- ✓Financial capacity and OSHC health cover.
Common blockers
- !Institution not CRICOS-registered.
- !Insufficient funds.
Typical evidence
- ·CoE.
- ·Funds evidence (AUD 29,710/year for 2024 intake; verify).
- ·OSHC.
Application pathway
Enrol and receive CoE
From CRICOS-registered provider.
Apply online
Includes GS statement.
Health and biometrics
At approved panel clinic.
Transition to subclass 485
Temporary Graduate visa post-study.
Official application links
Where to actually go next
These are the official pages to use for this route. Open them before preparing documents: the forms, fees, appointment systems, and sponsor steps can change without warning.
- ApplyApplicantApply for student visa ↗
Students use this Home Affairs page to confirm CoE, GS, and evidence requirements before applying online.
Department of Home Affairs · verified
Fees and processing time
Indicative government fees: AUD 1,600+.. A decision then typically takes 4 weeks – 4 months. Both change over time, so the dedicated pages below carry the itemised breakdown and the current official figures.
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Frequently asked questions
Can students work in Australia?+
Yes — up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, and unlimited during breaks. Check the current fortnightly cap before relying on a specific number.
What visa do I move onto after I finish studying in Australia?+
After the student visa (subclass 500), the pathway transitions to the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) for post-study work. Confirm the current 485 requirements and your eligibility on the Department of Home Affairs before your student visa ends.
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