Applying for an Australian student visa can feel overwhelming, understanding the key requirements will help you prepare confidently. Below is a clear breakdown of what you need to know before lodging your Subclass 500 Student Visa application.
Requirements for the Student Visa (500)
To apply for the 500 student visa, you must:
• Apply from offshore (outside Australia)
• Hold a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a registered Australian education provider
• Demonstrate English language proficiency (IELTS, PTE, Cambridge, or other accepted tests)
• Provide details of your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your course
• Meet the Genuine Student (GS) requirement, explaining why you wish to study in Australia
• Provide evidence of financial capacity, currently AUD $29,710 for an individual applicant
What Has Changed?
Recent updates to the student visa program include:
• Increased visa application fee: now AUD $2,000
• Stricter English requirements: generally a minimum score of 6.5 to 7.0 for Bachelor’s and Master’s programs
• New priority processing model: Education providers now have quotas; those education providers who are below their quota receive priority processing for their students
What Remains the Same?
Despite recent reforms, the following elements are unchanged:
• The Hong Kong stream remains available
• Applicants must complete a minimum of two years of study (Bachelors, Masters, PhD, or an eligible VET course listed on the Medium to Long-Term Strategic Skills List)
• Access to the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) with up to 5 years validity
• Pathways to Permanent Residency via Subclass 189 (Metropolitan) or Subclass 191 (Regional)
Final Tips
Before applying, ensure all your documents are complete, accurate, and aligned with visa guidelines. Preparation is key to a smooth and successful application.
If you want a stress-free and personalised experience, contact SEA. We specialise in:
• Enrolling students into primary/secondary school, VET and higher-education courses
• Assisting with OSHC
• Preparing and lodging student visa applications
SEA — your education and migration specialists.
If you’re interested in learning more about SEA’s services, contact us for more information.
☎: 2569 5400
📲: 9174 7418
🔗: https://specialistedu.com.hk