Overview
The Subclass 500 Student visa lets you stay in Australia to study full-time in a registered (CRICOS) course for the duration of your program. You must be enrolled, meet the Genuine Student requirement, show adequate financial capacity and English, and hold Overseas Student Health Cover.
The Student visa now uses the Genuine Student requirement (which replaced the GTE) and financial-capacity thresholds that are indexed over time. Get the enrolment, funds and English evidence right up front — and plan early for the Graduate (485) step if Australia is a longer-term goal.
Who is eligible
- Have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) in a CRICOS-registered course
- Meet the Genuine Student requirement
- Show adequate financial capacity (funds evidence threshold indexed periodically)
- Meet the English language requirement for your course
- Hold Overseas Student Health Cover and meet health and character requirements
Costs
The base application charge is A$2,000 . Plus Overseas Student Health Cover and biometrics/health costs. Fees are indexed each year — see the official Visa Pricing Estimator for the current figure.
Processing times
Around 75% of applications are finalised within 4 weeks, and 90% within 8 weeks. Source: Department of Home Affairs — Global visa processing times .
How to apply
- Get a Confirmation of Enrolment. Accept an offer and obtain a CoE from your CRICOS-registered provider. We can also help you choose the right course and provider and enrol before you lodge the visa.
- Prepare Genuine Student evidence. Address the Genuine Student requirement (which replaced the Genuine Temporary Entrant requirement).
- Evidence funds and English. Show financial capacity and the required English test result.
- Lodge and arrange OSHC. Apply with health insurance and meet health/character checks.
Frequently asked questions
What replaced the Genuine Temporary Entrant requirement?
The Genuine Student (GS) requirement replaced the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement. You answer targeted questions about your study and circumstances rather than writing a single GTE statement.
How much money do I need to show for a student visa?
You must show adequate financial capacity for course fees, living and travel costs. The living-cost figure is indexed periodically — check the current amount on the official source linked above.
Can I work on a student visa?
Yes, within the work limit per fortnight while your course is in session, and usually unrestricted during scheduled course breaks. The cap is set by the Department.