Australia is considered to be one of the most popular destinations for Indian students looking to pursue higher education abroad. Studying in Australia provides you with the opportunity to study at top-ranked universities, a healthy environment, and strong post-graduation work opportunities. The Government of Australia provides Indian students with an opportunity to study in Australia. However, you need to obtain an Australian student visa to study in the country. As an Indian Student, you will require a student (subclass 500) visa. In this blog, we will dive into seeing key visa requirements to study in Australia.
Why Study in Australia?
Australia stands out as the finest country for higher education due to several reasons:
Globally recognized Universities– Australia is home to various globally recognized universities like the University of Sydney, the University of Melbourne, etc.
Quality Student life– Australia provides a safe environment for students to learn and grow. With students coming from different cultures, a sense of unity is felt in the student community.
Work Opportunities– An Australian student visa allows international students to work part-time while studying.
Diverse career options– Australia offers a range of programs in various fields such as engineering, health, science, and technology.
Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500)
If you’re planning to study in Australia, you need a student subclass visa 500 to stay in Australia till your studies. A subclass 500 visa lets you stay in Australia for five years. However, to avoid any problems, ensure that you read all the visa conditions mentioned by the Australian Government for a smooth stay in Australia.
What is the scope of the subclass 500 Visa?
With this visa, you can:
1. Participate in an eligible course of study in Australia
2. Travel in and out of Australia
3. Work up to 48 hours a fortnight when your course of study or training is in session.
4. Bring family members to Australia
Note – Students who have started a master’s degree by research or a Doctoral degree have no work hour limits.
Types of study covered by the Visa:
The student (subclass 500) visa provides you with plenty of study options. Here are some listed below:
Higher education
Vocational and Education Training (VET)
Pathway courses
English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS)
Primary and secondary school
Secondary school exchange programs
Postgraduate research
Key Requirements You Must Meet Before Applying for Australia Student Visa
Here are some key visa requirements to study in Australia:
An enrollment in a course of study in Australia
You must hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) or fall in one of the exemption categories.
Your age must be 6 years or older.
A proof that you have a welfare arrangement done, if you are under 18 years of age
Documents Required to Apply for a Study Visa in Australia
You’ll need to prepare the following:
- A Valid passport
- A Copy of the Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian education provider
- A Proof of your English proficiency level. It will prove to the Australian Government that you meet the minimum English proficiency levels needed to succeed in your course.
- You have to meet the Genuine Student (GS) requirement.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) / GTE statement
- Proof of financial capacity ( you must prove that you have enough savings to cover the costs and expenses associated with your course)
- You must have an Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Recent passport-size photographs
- Details of your health examination reports
Financial Requirements for Australia Student Visa
The requirements for a study visa in Australia also include the Financial capacity of a student. Students need to prove that they have sufficient funds to pay for their tuition fees and living expenses as well. As of now, student visa applicants must provide proof of at least $ 29,710.
English Language Proficiency for an Australian Student Visa
To obtain an Australian student visa, you need to prove your English language proficiency, as English is the primary language for the majority of the courses in Australian universities. You are required to prove your English proficiency from an approved English language test:
Cambridge English Advanced Test
International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
Occupational English Test (OET)
Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE)
Test of English as a Foreign Language internet‑based test (TOEFL iBT)
Minimum English Test Scores Required
| Test | Minimum Test Score |
| Cambridge English Advanced (CAE) Test | 169 |
| International English Language Testing System (IELTS) | Overall band score 6.0 |
| Occupational English Test (OET) | a score of at least a B for each test component |
| Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE) | 50 |
| Test of English as a Foreign Language internet‑based test (TOEFL iBT) | 64 |
Please note: Scores might vary for your educational institution; please check with them before proceeding.
Health and Character Requirements for Australia Student Visa
Students also need to undergo a medical checkup as the Australian government wants most of their students to be in a healthy state. Additionally, Applicants also need to buy Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for medical purposes.
Moreover, to study in Australia, you also need to be of good character. Therefore, you might need to answer some questions in your application. There may be a possibility that you might need to provide a police certificate.
Australian Student Visa Fee
The Subclass 500 visa fee starts at AUD1,600.00, unless exempt. Additionally, there is also a charge for each family member who applies for the visa, along with miscellaneous costs involved.
Visa Processing Time
For an indication of processing times for this visa, use the visa processing time guide tool. This will show the processing times for recently decided applications. It is a guide only and not specific to your application.
Best Ways to Send Money from India to Australia
If you’re planning to study in Australia, you’ll need Australian dollars to pay tuition fees and manage living expenses. While Banks are the most conventional method of sending money abroad, it can often be time-consuming and leave you with unfavorable rates. However, Supreme Forex, a reputable forex platform providing money transfer services specifically designed for students, all as per RBI Guidelines. We’re here to make sure your financial journey is as smooth as your academic one. Send money to Australia hassle-free with our reliable international money transfer services.
FAQs on Australia Study Visa
What is the eligibility to study in Australia?
There are some checks that you need to fulfil, like you must meet academic qualifications, have sufficient funds, English language proof, and clear health & character checks.
Is IELTS required for an Australian Student visa?
Yes, IELTS or other accepted English tests are mandatory. However, refer to the Department of Home Affairs of Australia to get the most updated information.
How much funds is required for Australia Student visa?
As of now, student visa applicants must provide proof of at least $ 29,710 to show financial capacity.
Can I work while studying?
With the subclass 500 visa, you can work up to 48 hours a fortnight when your course of study or training is in session (students studying a master’s by research or doctoral degree, and their families, have no work limit).
Can I bring my family with me?
Yes, you can include family members when you lodge your visa application. However, Family members who apply for the visa must meet health and character requirements.
Source:
IDP Education
Department of Home Affairs – Australian Government
Study Australia – Australian Government
Federal Register of Legislation – Australian Government
