What Is the Eligibility for Student Visa in Australia?

Australia has long been an attractive country for international students who are looking for an amazing education in an energetic setting. Yet, you should understand the eligibility requirements to secure a student visa before starting your academic adventure in Australia.

Let’s learn more about moving through the procedure with ease.

What is the eligibility for student visa in Australia?

A few necessary terms must be met to qualify for an Australian student visa (Subclass 500 visa).

1. Enrolled in a registered course

• A full-time course that is listed on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) is what you need to be enrolled in.
• A Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) from the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs provides proof of this.

2. Age Requirement

• A student visa in Australia is available only to those who are 6 years old or beyond. You must present proof of your welfare arrangement if you are less than 18 years old.

3. English language proficiency

• A passing grade on an authorized English language test can be used as proof of your language proficiency.
• This requirement is subject to a few exceptions (e.g., an IELTS score of 6 or higher).
• If you are applying for bachelors you need to score more than 6 bands each in Ielts/ 52 each in pte, but if you are applying for masters/PHD you need to score 6.5 each/ 58 each, vice-versa.

4. Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE)

• To study in Australia and eventually return home, you should convince the Australian government of your sincere intentions.
• A written statement outlining your study strategies and long-term objectives acts as confirmation of this.

Important Note: In case your application is submitted before March 23, 2024, the GTE requirement will still be applicable.

5. Genuine Student Test (GST)

• For student visa applications submitted on or after March 23, 2024, the Genuine Student Test (GST) requirement will replace the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement.
• The GST is more than just a document stating that to convince them you want to study in Australia. You should learn more about the Genuine Student Test in Australia.

6. Financial resources

• You need to show that you have sufficient resources to support yourself while visiting Australia.
• Scholarships, bank statements, and sponsorships can all be provided as proof of this (with a minimum of AUD 20,290 annually).
• The Australian government has mandated an uptick in the minimum savings necessary to secure a student visa. Since October 1, 2023, international students must now show savings totaling AUD$24,505 (US$15,943), marking a 17% increase from the prior requirement.

7. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

• For the whole time you are visiting Australia, you need to have health insurance.

8. Other requirements

• Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your stay in Australia, as well as check the requirements related to health and character.
• Enrollment, good progress in the courses, attendance, and dedication to the requirements of the visa are all necessary to keep it valid.

The official Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website is always the best source for the most current information and upgrades on eligibility for student visas.

Student Visa Australia Cost

There are a few variables that can affect the price of an Australia student visa (Subclass 500), but the following is an outline of the primary costs,

• Base application fee 

Currently, AUD 710 is the basic application fee for a visa.

• Additional applicant charge

There is an extra AUD 470 fee if you submit your application with a dependent who is 18 years of age or older.

How long does it take to process a student visa application?

The Australian student visa subclass, the volume of applications being processed at the time, and the completeness of your application are some of the variables that can affect how long it takes to process your application. But at the moment, the processing time averages 4 to 6 weeks.

Remember that every situation is unique, so it is necessary to verify the most recent details on the official Australian government website or speak with a registered migration agent for specific advice.

You can speed up the process by submitting an application that is accurate and full and that has all required supporting documentation.

Bottom Line

A student’s ability to secure a student visa in Australia depends on meeting some eligibility requirements, like being accepted into a registered course, having the necessary funds, speaking English fluently, having health insurance, having met the GTE/GST requirement, passing character and medical checks, and keeping to visa regulations.

With confidence and peace of mind, you can start your Australian educational journey by being aware of and fulfilling all of these requirements.

Read: How to convert Australia Tourist Visa in study visa?