Published Nov 27, 2025 · 10 min read

The Australian Visa Switch: From Working Holiday to Student Visa

Go from backpacks to books! Thinking of applying for a Student Visa (subclass 500) while holding a Working Holiday Visa (417/462) in Aus? Sure, that switch is possible. We’ve found that this has been the most common way of visa transitional application. Here’s a simplified process to help you explore your Australian visa options and find the best pathway for you.

The Student Visa Process

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Application ≠ Approval

Please note that while there’s potential in getting a student visa, your visa switch application doesn’t immediately mean that it’s going to be approved. Every submission goes through a meticulous process and doesn’t guarantee a visa grant, but applying for one is definitely worth it.
Wondering what the Student Visa journey looks like?
Student Visa Process

This visa allows you to study short and long-term courses in Australia, allowing you to obtain an internationally recognised Australian Qualification — this can open up a lot of opportunities.

Course Choice

The first and perhaps most vital decision you’ll be making in your Pathway to Aus is which course you’ll be studying during your stay here. 

Potential Pathways | Educate to Migrate Programs

Here’s a self-check you can try so you can figure out your first step: 
🤔 What do I want to study?
🤔 Do I want to study for migration or just stay in Aus for a year or 2?
🤔Where in Aus do I want to study?

Quick Tip: Choose a course that’s something that you either like or can see yourself doing in the long-term. If you need expert advice, you can speak with one of our lead education agents to guide you.

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Location, Location, Location

Want to know where to study in Aus? Click here and here to discover which place works best for you.

The Enrolment Process

What’s the pathway to getting in your chosen course & school?

Enrolment Process

Enrol – Apply – Pay – Receive

Enrol 

You’ll be filling up an enrolment form with Pathway to Aus and provide the requirements to your Education Agent or chosen school. These include: 

  • Passport 
  • IELTS or PTE (if required)
  • Previous Academic Certificates
  • Personal statement or Genuine Student (GS) Statement

Apply

Submit all the necessary paperwork needed. A gentle reminder: once you’ve enroled in the course in Australia, you are required to apply for a Student Visa application.

Pay

Settle all the fees. With enrolment, you have the option of either settling the fees already or scheduling your payment terms. 

Receive

The school will be issuing a Confirmation of Enrolment that affirms your registration in the institution. This document also serves as a mandatory document needed in your Student Visa application.

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Student Visa 101

Learn more about Student Visas in our Student Visa Beginner’s Guide, How to Study in Australia and the Application Process resources.

Genuine Student Statement

GS — What is it? 

  • Genuine Student formerly called GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant to Australia)
  • Requirement for student visa application
  • Proof that prospective students are coming to Aus temporarily to study
  • Acknowledges students may opt for permanent residency using learned skills

 

The Genuine Student (GS) Statement

A written statement indicating your primary purpose, duration of stay, and your home ties.

Need help writing your GS Statement?

FREE Consultations | The Pathway to Aus Assistance

PTA offers completely FREE SERVICE for international students. Once you have chosen a course and location, we’ll assist you in all aspects of enrolment — including lodging your application to the college. Our aim is to help you get in the right pathway to study in Australia. From start to finish, we offer our assistance to international students, no worries!

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Work, Study or Migrate

Learn more about your visa switch possibilities and embark on your journey with Pathway to Aus.

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