Learning abroad seems pretty on the surface: new cities, new cultures, and the prospect of an international career. Most students, however, see only the tip of the iceberg and disregard the hard work that goes into getting them into Australia. Before dreaming about campus life, you need to understand the Australia student visa requirements, how the Australian student visa system works, and what the Student visa subclass 500 demands from every applicant. Most students are in a hurry when deciding on a course or university without knowing the rules, timelines, and documentation involved in a Study in Australia visa, and that is what goes wrong in the process.
It is not a complex reality that the process only becomes uncomplicated when you are aware of what the government anticipates and the errors that could ruin your popularity. This blog demystifies all you have to know so that you walk in prepared, not confused, delayed, and rejected.
Why Study in Australia?
Australia is always the leading destination of choice to undertake international education, not only in terms of universities but also in terms of the experience that it provides. The country blends academic excellence with a lifestyle that attracts students from around the world, especially those exploring Australian student visa options and planning their pathway through the Study in Australia visa process.
Here is why students prefer Australia:
- International universities that are of world standards and offer practical learning.
- Multicultural cities that are safe and highly supportive of international students.
- Easy career advancement, internship, and post-studies.
Australia, in summary, brings the best combination of formal education and practical hands-on experience, which is why it should be the number one destination on the list of anyone who is planning to take the next big step in international life.Account and evaluated by the Department of Home Affairs based on your evidence and documents. Knowing how to apply for student visa Australia is the first crucial step you need to know while pursuing higher education.
Types of Australian Student Visas Explained
There are several types of visas that are provided to international students in Australia, with each type serving a unique purpose. With this information, you are able to make the correct choice in terms of the route and also save time in your process of getting an Australian student visa and submitting your application.
Student Visa (Subclass 500)
This is the major visa of international students who prefer to study full-time at a CRICOS-registered institution. It gives you the opportunity to remain as long as your course lasts, serve under a valid visa program, invite qualified relatives, and receive important services such as OSHC. All the requirements include the core requirements of English proficiency, financial capacity, and Confirmation of Enrolment. This is the most common pathway for those seeking a Study in Australia visa.
Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)
This is the visa of parents or legal guardians who should accompany an under-18 student who studies in Australia. It does not permit work but provides a temporary stay to give welfare, accommodation, and support to the student. They have to demonstrate financial ability, health cover, and also prove that they have the ability to truly execute the role of a guardian.
Training Visa (Subclass 407)
The visa applies to people who are required to carry out workplace-based training or professional development in Australia. It fits in skill development, capacity building, or formal training programs associated with your vocation. Applicants must be nominated or sponsored by an approved organization, meet health and character requirements, and follow all Department of Home Affairs guidelines.
Application Submission for Australia Study Visa (Australia Student Visa Application Process)
The biggest mistake most students make is to submit their application and not follow the simple requirements which are given by the Department of Home Affairs, not because the system is too complex. A proper Australia student visa application process starts only after you’ve secured a CoE, prepared your financial documents, and ensured you meet every part of the Australian student visa eligibility criteria.
You are to apply online with the help of ImmiAccount, provide all the necessary evidence, pay the visa fee, and undergo biometrics when it is requested. The submission phase is also not the moment to be creative; each missing document or inaccurate piece of information postpones your Student visa subclass 500. Having a polished, well-organised application will give you better chances of faster processing, and you will avoid wasting time on a back-and-forth with immigration.
Australia Student Visa Processing Time for Indian Students
The processing time of the Australian student visa depends on a number of factors, including the level of your course, the completeness of your application, your financial and academic evidence, and above all, the priority tier of your education provider under the recent Ministerial Direction. The Indian applicants most often have varying schedules from other regions due to large numbers of applications and tough evaluations of money and Genuine Student criteria.
A clean, well-documented Student visa subclass 500 application through ImmiAccount typically moves faster. On half-baked documents, poor financial presentation, or selecting an institution in the slow lane will slow down the outcome. A clear breakdown to enable you to know realistic timelines is given below:
| Category | Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Priority 1 Institutions (<80% quota) | 1–4 weeks |
| Priority 2 Institutions (80–115% quota) | 5–8 weeks |
| Priority 3 Institutions (>115% quota) | 9–12+ weeks |
| Applications with missing/incorrect documents | Delayed indefinitely |
Handing in a complete application, including correct documentation, sound financial evidence, and the selection of an appropriate provider, can be the difference in time taken to get your application approved when it comes to the Australian student visa requirements outcome.
Australia Student Visa Requirements 2026
Prior to the Australian student visa application, any applicant has to satisfy a set of criteria that are set to prove that they are able, qualified, and that they are truly going to study. Such requirements for the Australian Student visa ensure that students are academically ready, not in debt, and in compliance with the law under the Student visa subclass 500.
Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE)
You need to possess a valid CoE, which is issued by a CRICOS-registered institution. This validates your acceptance, and this is a requirement in filing your visa using the ImmiAccount.
Education and Academic Eligibility.
Your past studies should be in line with the course you have studied. Institutions ensure that you are eligible before you are given your CoE, and consistency and academic progress.
Genuine Student(GS) Requirement
The GS requirement evaluates your willingness to study, your past history, financial status, and attachment to your motherland. The poor or incoherent responses cause delays or rejections.
English Language Proficiency.
To be accepted by immigration and their institution, applicants have to have a minimum English score. The most popular are: IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, OET, and Cambridge. At each level of the course, there is a minimum score required, and your results must be valid upon application.
Financial Requirements
You have to demonstrate the capacity to meet tuition fees, travelling, and living costs. This encompasses bank statements, fixed deposits, or education loans, or sponsor evidence according to the Department of Home Affairs guidelines.
Health and Character Requirements
Students are required to have medical check-ups, clearance certificate of police and all the public health and character requirements stipulated by the Australian government.
Checklist Supporting Documents.
These are your passport, CoE, academic transcripts, English test results, photographs, financial evidence, GTE/GS statement, biometrics (where necessary), and any other documents that are requested by the Department of Home Affairs.
Recent Updates for Student Visa Applicants in 2026
Australia has also made a significant change under the Ministerial Direction 115 (MD 115), which has a direct impact on offshore Student visa subclass 500 applications. The new rule applies a 3-level priority approach to the performance of the institutions in terms of managing international student quotas.
Providers with under 80% of allotment are included in Priority 1, which results in a 1-4 week visa outcome for the students. Those between 80-115% are under Priority 2 and the time scale of 5-8 weeks. Those who go more than 115% get into Priority 3, where the results extend to 9-12 + weeks.
It is expected to equalize the number of students, decrease the strain on housing and infrastructure, and preserve visa integrity. Such regulations are relevant only to applications submitted on or after 14 November 2025; hence, the importance of institutional compliance is a significant consideration for Indian students.
Australia Study Visa Application Process
The Australian student visa application procedure is easy as long as you follow all steps in the correct sequence and have your documents prepared. An organised, clean method will minimise time wastage and increase your chances of getting the Australian student visa under the Student visa subclass 500 fast.
Select a CRICOS-Registered Course and Institution.
Your course should be registered in the CRICOS register. The selection of compliant institutions also influences your speed in processing, as provided in MD 115.
Be given Receipt of Enrolment (CoE)
Upon acceptance, your university gives you a CoE. This is a document required in the creation of your ImmiAccount and the submission of your visa.
Make an ImmiAccount and Submit an Application.
To ensure that you are not delayed, you should apply online using ImmiAccount, attach the necessary documents, and complete all the sections correctly.
Payment of Visa Fees and Biometric (when necessary)
Hand in the visa application fee, then combine with your biometrics appointment in order to proceed with the Department of Home Affairs (where necessary).
Track Application and Waiting for Decision.
Check the latest updates of ImmiAccount. Processing times will be based on the priority level of your provider, the accuracy of documents, and general case evaluation.
Popular Universities in Australia for Indian Students
Australia also boasts of globally rated universities that enjoy an influx of thousands of Indian students annually. The institutions are well-established in academic programs, have good support for students, and provide well-defined opportunities for career growth and work prospects after the studies. The following is a brief overview of some of the popular universities among Indian applicants.
| Australia Rank | University | World Rank |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Australian National University | 30 |
| 2 | University of Melbourne | 33 |
| 3 | University of Sydney | 41 |
| 4 | University of New South Wales | 45 |
| 5 | University of Queensland | 50 |
| 6 | Monash University | 57 |
| 7 | University of Western Australia | 90 |
| 8 | University of Adelaide | 109 |
| 9 | University of Technology Sydney | 137 |
| 10 | University of Wollongong | 185 |
| 11 | RMIT University | 190 |
| 12 | University of Newcastle | 192 |
| 13 | Curtin University | 193 |
| 14 | Macquarie University | 195 |
| 15 | Queensland University of Technology | 222 |
| 16 | Deakin University | 266 |
| 17 | University of Tasmania | 293 |
| 18 | Swinburne University of Technology | 296 |
| 19 | Griffith University | 300 |
| 20 | La Trobe University | 316 |
| 21 | University of South Australia | 363 |
| 22 | Flinders University | 425 |
| 23 | James Cook University | 461 |
| 24 | Bond University | 481 |
| 25 | Western Sydney University | 501 |
| 25 | University of Canberra | 511 |
| 25 | Murdoch University | 561 |
| 28 | Edith Cowan University | 601 |
| 29 | University of Southern Queensland | 651 |
| 29 | CQUniversity | 651 |
| 31 | Victoria University | 701 |
| 31 | Southern Cross University | 701 |
| 31 | Charles Darwin University | 701 |
| 34 | Australian Catholic University | 801 |
| 34 | University of New England | 801 |
| 34 | Charles Sturt University | 801 |
| 37 | University of the Sunshine Coast | 1001 |
| 38 | University of Notre Dame Australia | 1201 |
Top-Ranked Universities for Indian Students
Australia has various internationally reputed universities that always receive high numbers of Indian students. These colleges have good academics, good support services, and good visa compliance, thus making them the best option to choose to study under either the Australian student visa or subclass 500 of the Student visa.
The best choices among Indian students are as follows:
- University of Melbourne -Research excellence, engineering, business, and medicine.
- University of Sydney– Powerful in healthcare, business, and international collaboration.
- UNSW Sydney – Famous for its engineering, IT, and innovation-oriented courses.
- Australian National University (ANU)– Best suited for science, politics, as well as research-intensive disciplines.
- University of Queensland (UQ)– is the preferred choice in biotechnology, life sciences, and engineering.
- Monash University– fantastic in pharmacy, STEM, and industry-related courses.
- RMIT University– Best design, IT, and job-oriented learning.
- University of Adelaide– cheap living, good engineering and agriculture programs.
Best Courses to Study in Australia for Indian and International Students
Under the Australian student visa and Student visa subclass 500, Australia remains one of the leading destinations of Indian and international students due to high-quality education, international reputation, and post-study work opportunities. The following courses provide all three of the mentioned elements, namely, great career opportunities, practical education, and a high rate of employability.
| Program | Level of Study | Typical Duration | Average Yearly Cost (AUD) | Approx. Cost in INR (1 AUD = ₹57.87) | Common Career Outcomes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Software) | UG / PG | 3–4 years (UG), 1.5–2 years (PG) | 35,000 – 50,000 | ₹20,25,450 – ₹28,93,500 | Engineers, Project Managers, Analysts |
| Information Technology & Computer Science | UG / PG | 3 years (UG), 1.5–2 years (PG) | 32,000 – 48,000 | ₹18,51,840 – ₹27,77,760 | Software Developers, Data Analysts, Cybersecurity Specialists |
| Business & Management (including MBA) | UG / PG | 3 years (UG), 1.5–2 years (PG/MBA) | 30,000 – 55,000 | ₹17,36,100 – ₹31,82,850 | Managers, Consultants, Analysts |
| Nursing & Healthcare | UG / PG | 3–4 years (UG), 2 years (PG) | 30,000 – 45,000 | ₹17,36,100 – ₹26,04,150 | Registered Nurses, Healthcare Administrators |
| Accounting & Finance | UG / PG | 3 years (UG), 1.5–2 years (PG) | 28,000 – 45,000 | ₹16,20,360 – ₹26,04,150 | Accountants, Auditors, Financial Analysts |
| Biotechnology & Life Sciences | UG / PG | 3–4 years (UG), 2 years (PG) | 32,000 – 50,000 | ₹18,51,840 – ₹28,93,500 | Biotechnologists, Research Scientists |
| Hospitality & Tourism | UG / PG | 2–3 years (UG), 1–2 years (PG) | 20,000 – 35,000 | ₹11,57,400 – ₹20,25,450 | Hospitality Managers, Event Coordinators |
| Architecture & Design | UG / PG | 3–5 years (UG), 2 years (PG) | 30,000 – 45,000 | ₹17,36,100 – ₹26,04,150 | Architects, Designers |
| Education & Teaching | UG / PG | 4 years (UG), 1–2 years (PG) | 28,000 – 40,000 | ₹16,20,360 – ₹23,14,800 | Teachers, Education Officers |
| Agriculture & Environmental Science | UG / PG | 3–4 years (UG), 2 years (PG) | 25,000 – 40,000 | ₹14,46,750 – ₹23,14,800 | Environmental Scientists, Agronomists |
Admission Requirements to Study in Australian Universities
Even to begin the process of obtaining the Australian student visa requirements, students should be able to satisfy the academic and institutional standards to secure admission in an Australian university. The criteria vary in each of the universities, but the essential requirements are similar in most universities.
The following are the critical conditions of admission to study in Australia:
Academic Qualifications
- In the case of UG: 12th grade or equivalent, with a percentage required.
- In the case of PG: A recognised bachelor’s degree with a minimum percentage/GPA.
- Certain programs can have pre-requisite subjects (e.g. Maths for Engineering).
English language proficiency:
The acceptable tests are IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, OET, or Cambridge. The lowest passing grades are based on the coursework and the university.
Statement of Purpose (SOP):
Your academic background and career objectives, and why you selected the course and university.
Letters of Recommendation (LORs):
The degree is required primarily at postgraduate levels, particularly in research.
Portfolio (if applicable):
Compulsory in creative agencies such as design, architecture, fine arts, and animation.
Resume/CV:
Required in postgraduate courses, particularly ones that need work experience.
Work Experience (in selected courses):
MBA, specialised master’s, and some vocational courses might take 1-3 years of experience.
Passport:
Admission, issuing of CoE, and subsequent application for a visa require a valid passport.
Application Fee:
An application fee is paid in some universities when submitting an application, but most of them provide waivers in cases of promotions or alliances.
Upon satisfying these conditions, the students are subsequently offered a letter of offer, accepted, and a required tuition deposit made, after which they are provided with a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) to submit the Student visa subclass 500 application.
Cost of Studying in Australia for Indian Students
Studying in Australia will be a significant investment. Having both tuition and living expenses at hand beforehand will enable you to figure out the entire budget you will need to get a Study in Australia visa or Australia student visa up to subclass 500.
Tuition Fees by Course Level (UG, PG, VET)
The Australian universities have various fee ranges depending on the level of the program. This knowledge will enable you to manage your budget ahead of time and achieve the requirements of the Australian student visa without any problems. Following is a straightforward separation of tuition fees of UG, PG, and VET courses.
| Cost Element | Typical Range (AUD) | Approximate Range (INR) (1 AUD = ₹57.87) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition | 20,000 – 45,000 | ₹11,57,400 – ₹26,04,150 |
| Postgraduate Tuition | 22,000 – 50,000 | ₹12,73,140 – ₹28,93,500 |
| Living Expenses (rent, food, utilities) | 18,000 – 25,000 | ₹10,41,660 – ₹14,46,750 |
| Student Visa (Subclass 500) Fee | 1,600 + | ₹92,592+ |
Australia Student Visa Fees in Indian Rupees.
The student visa subclass 500 application fee is inclusive of visa fees for the principal applicant and any other dependents. The new cost in INR in the latest exchange rate is shown below.
| Fee Type | Amount (AUD) | Amount in INR (1 AUD = ₹57.87) |
|---|---|---|
| Base Visa Application Charge | 1,600 | ₹92,592 |
| Additional Applicant (18+) | 1,200 | ₹69,444 |
| Additional Applicant (<18) | 390 | ₹22,569 |
| Biometrics (if applicable) | 30–40 | ₹1,736 – ₹2,315 |
Expenses on living and OSHC Insurance.
In the process of the Australian student visa, Australia expects students to prove their ability to meet the living costs. These costs differ according to the city, but they have a standard minimum. OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is compulsory for all international students.
| Expense Type | Cost (AUD) | Cost in INR (1 AUD = ₹57.87) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 10,000 – 18,000 | ₹5,78,700 – ₹10,41,660 |
| Food & Groceries | 4,000 – 6,000 | ₹2,31,480 – ₹3,47,220 |
| Transport | 1,500 – 2,000 | ₹86,805 – ₹1,15,740 |
| Utilities & Internet | 1,000 – 2,000 | ₹57,870 – ₹1,15,740 |
| Personal Expenses | 1,500 – 2,000 | ₹86,805 – ₹1,15,740 |
Proof of Funds Required for Australia Study Visa Approval
To obtain an Australia student visa, they have to demonstrate that they are able to cover tuition fees, living costs, and travel costs. The Department of Home Affairs expects students to prove funds over a period of one year, which consists of:
- Living costs: AUD 29, 710 (compulsory sum revised by DHA)
- Annual tuition fee: According to your CoE (UG/PG/VET cost)
- Travel cost: AUD 2,000 (approx.)
- Dependence on schooling costs in case of dependent(s)
Financial documents:
- Bank statements
- Fixed deposits
- Education loan sanctions
- Parent/sponsor income proof
- CA reports (not compulsory but beneficial)
The financial statements should also display that you will be able to go without employment in Australia. Any discrepancy or poor fiscal evidence is one of the quickest methods to postpone or be denied.
Studying in Australia: Education Loans.
Most of the Indian students use education loans to fulfill the requirements of the student visa for Australia and to pay living expenses and OSHC in addition to tuition, as they apply to the Australian student visa. Loans that may cover the cost of the entire studies up to 100 percent are provided by banks, NBFCs, and foreign lenders.
A sanctioned education loan is also valid as financial evidence in the Student visa subclass 500 and is, therefore, also a good choice for students who require good documentation. The majority of the loans cover tuition fees, accommodation, traveling, and necessities, and repayment is considered flexible upon the completion of the course.
Indian Student Scholarships in Australia
In Australia, scholarships are available to Indian and international students in a great variety, and thus it will be easier to cover the cost of studying in a foreign country under the Study in Australia visa program. The Australian government, universities, and private organisations give these scholarships, which are based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need.
Scholarships sponsored by the government incorporate such initiatives as the Australia Awards Scholarship, the Destination Australia Program, as well as the Research Training Program (RTP), which benefits students of different levels. Merit-based awards are also available at the universities, including Monash International Merit Scholarship, ANU Global Diversity Scholarship, University of Sydney International Scholarship, and UNSW International Scientia Coursework Scholarship. These awards may lower tuition costs to a fraction, even 25, 50, or 100 percent.
Several Australian universities automatically assess all applicants for scholarships at the time of admission, whereas some of them require an additional application containing SOPs, recommendation letters, or research proposals. Indian students with good academics, an impressive profile, and timely applications are in very good positions to attract meaningful financial assistance.
Post-Study Work Permits in Australia
Australia has good post-study employment opportunities for students who pursue eligible courses under the Australian student visa. The primary route is the temporary graduate Visa (Subclass 485), which allows graduates to remain behind, acquire working experience, and consolidate their long-term career or migration intentions.
Key Points
- Eligibility: Should be the holder of a CRICOS-registered course and the Australian Study Requirement (minimum 2 years).
Streams
- Post-Higher Education Work Stream – bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate graduates.
- Second Post-Higher Education Work Stream – graduates who have previously studied/lived in the regions.
- Post-Vocational Education Work Stream – applies to VET graduates associated with skills list occupations.
Duration
- Bachelor’s & Master’s: 2 years
- Research Master’s: 3 years
- PhD: 4 years
- Additional years: 1-2 years in regional study.
- Work Rights: Full-time working for the entire visa period.
This visa is among the greatest benefits of studying under the Student visa subclass 500, which provides students with actual industry exposure and greater career opportunities in the long term in Australia.
Final Word
Studying in Australia is probably one of the best investments one can make, both in academics, occupation, and in life. The first thing to begin with, however, is to have a clear understanding of the process and to avoid the errors that most students commit in the course of their Australian student visa subclass 500 application. The correct choice, the correct organization, effective paperwork, and full knowledge of the new regulations, such as MD 115, will help to spend the night on an approval and several months on a standstill.
You do not have to work your way through all this on your own. Book a free consultation with Walk International in case you are planning to study in Australia and need expert help with admissions, visas, finances, or course selection. With the help of our team, you will develop a good profile, make the right choice of pathway, and present a clean and well-crafted application to get one step closer to your Study in Australia dreams without stress and misunderstanding.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money is required for an Australian student visa?
The Student visa subclass 500 cost was AUD 1,600, but from July 2025, the fee increased to AUD 2,000 for the main applicant. Additional charges apply for dependents. You must also show enough funds to cover one year of tuition, living expenses, and travel as part of the Australia student visa requirements.
What are the basic requirements to apply for an Australian student visa?
You’ll need a valid passport, a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), proof of funds, English language test results, health examinations, and all required documents proving you meet the Genuine Student (GS) requirement. Students under 18 must also provide evidence of welfare and accommodation arrangements.
What type of health insurance do I need for a student visa in Australia?
International students must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of their Australian student visa. OSHC helps cover medical treatment, hospital care, and prescription costs. Prices vary by provider and length of your study program.
What are the new rules for student visas in Australia?
The 2025 updates include higher visa fees, tougher financial requirements, mandatory CoE at the time of application, and longer processing times. Under Ministerial Direction 115 (MD 115), visa speed now depends on your institution’s priority tier. The government is also managing total international student numbers more strictly to protect housing and infrastructure.
