Student visa (subclass 500)
The single visa for all registered courses — university, vocational (VET), schools and English language (ELICOS). Key facts for 2026:
- Application charge: AUD $2,500 for most students from 1 July 2026 (ELICOS-only/non-award courses: ~$2,050).
- Enrolment first: you need a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered course before applying.
- Genuine Student (GS) requirement: written responses showing you genuinely intend to study — this replaced the old GTE statement.
- Financial capacity: evidence of funds for tuition, living costs and travel (living-cost benchmark set by Home Affairs — check the current figure).
- English: IELTS/TOEFL/PTE minimums vary by course level.
- Work rights: up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, unlimited during scheduled breaks.
- OSHC: Overseas Student Health Cover for your whole stay is mandatory.
Official page: Student visa (subclass 500) — Home Affairs.
After graduation: Temporary Graduate visa (485)
Finish an eligible qualification and the 485 gives you full work rights to launch your Australian career — typically 2–3 years depending on qualification level, with extra time for some regional graduates. Age limit is under 35 for most applicants. It's the classic bridge between study and skilled migration: real Australian work experience earns points and makes employer sponsorship far easier.
Study → PR: how the pathway actually works
- Choose a course aligned with Australia's skilled occupation lists — health, engineering, IT, education and trades consistently feature.
- Complete your qualification on the 500.
- Gain local experience on the 485 (skills assessment in your occupation).
- Apply through a skilled pathway: points-tested 189/190/491 or employer-sponsored 482→186.
Reality check: study is not a guaranteed route to residency — occupation demand, points competition and policy settings shift every year. Choose a course you actually want, in a field with genuine skill shortages.
Costs beyond the visa
| Item | Typical range (AUD/year) |
|---|
| University tuition (international) | $35,000–$55,000 |
| VET tuition | $8,000–$25,000 |
| Living costs (single) | $25,000–$35,000 |
| OSHC health cover | $600–$900 |