Top 5 Student Visa FAQs
1. What are the requirements for an Australian Visa (500)?
- Offer & Enrolment: receive Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment
- Genuine Student (GS): prove main purpose is temporary study as seen in the Statement of Purpose. State their course choice, career goals, and complying with visa conditions given.
- Financial capacity: show funds for tuition, living costs, travel and other expenses.
(show minimum of AUD29,710) - English proficiency: submit test results from IELTS, TOEFL or PTE
- Health and character: meet health criteria and good character requirements
Ex. medical exams, police certificates
- Health insurance (OSHC): You can get your OSHC for the duration of your stay in Aus
- Passport: ensure you are carrying a valid passport
- Academic records: transcripts, degree certificates, diplomas, and work experience
- All submissions are done via the ImmiAccount. In the GS make sure that your intent in coming to Australia is to temporarily study.
Application ≠ Approval
This is a gentle reminder to note that a visa application doesn’t mean approval. If you follow the process and submit all the requirements, getting a visa grant is possible.
2. How much is the Student Visa fee for Australia?
3. What are the new rules for Student Visas in Australia?
The “Genuine Student” (GS) replaced the GTE requirement
- Applicants have to prove that they are coming to the country to study.
- They must state their course choice, career goals, and complying with visa conditions given.
Higher financial capacity requirements (minimum of at least AUD29,710)
- Students can now work for up to 48 hours per fortnight during their course of study.
- Unlimited working hours during holiday breaks
- Master’s and PhD students may work unlimited hours
A national cap on international student numbers set at 295,000 for 2026
- English proficiency requirements increased for both student and temporary graduate visas.
- Minimum for IELTS score = 6.0 overall
- Minimum for ELICOS = 5.0
- Minimum for foundation/pathway programs = 5.5
New processing rules for 2026 (Traffic-Light System)
This student visa process is based on the provider/school’s capacity. It helps manage the volume of international student applications.
- Green zone (Priority 1) has the fastest processing (schools using below 80% prioritisation)
- Amber zone (Priority 2) has standard processing (schools using 80-115% prioritisation)
- Red zone (Priority 3) has the slowest processing (schools using 115% prioritisation)
Visa transitions
Students that have Visitor Visas or Temporary Graduate Visas can no longer switch to a student visa onshore. Applications are now done offshore.
4. How long can you stay with a Student Visa in Aus?
Based on the Australian government, the Student Visa (500) is valid for up to 5 years. But if the study program is longer or is packaged, it can extend to up to 6 years. The validity of the visa runs through 1-2 months after the student finishes their studies. Extending one’s stay is possible and can be applied for.
Ready to enrol? Start your journey here.
- Find a course or choose one of the Trade courses
- Fill out the PTA Enrolment Form
- Book a FREE Education Consultation
5. Can I apply for PR after studying in Australia?
Yes, it’s possible to apply for permanent residency (PR) after studying in Australia. This is provided that you meet the requirements and criteria needed to be able to apply.
Pathways to PR after studying:
- Can stay in Aus for 2-4 or more years after graduation for work experience as a bridge to PR
Skilled Independent Visa (189)
- Not sponsored by employer, it’s a visa for skilled workers that’s points-based
- Points-based visa that is permanent and requires a nomination by a state or territory government in Australia
- Company-sponsored visa that gives skilled workers the opportunity to live and work in Australia
With all these in mind, we hope you were guided into having a clear understanding to get you started on your educational journey. If you want to get more information about your specific situation, book a consultation with one of our lead education agents so you’re guided on your next steps.
