Subclass 500 — Student Visa

Subclass 500 — Student Visa

About the Subclass 500 — Student Visa

The Student visa (subclass 500) is the main Australian visa for international students undertaking full-time study at CRICOS-registered institutions. It allows you to study, work part-time, and travel in and out of Australia during your course of study.

The 500 visa is typically granted for the duration of the course plus a few months of buffer. After graduation, students can apply for the subclass 485 Temporary Graduate visa for post-study work rights.

Eligibility

  • Letter of offer / Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from CRICOS-registered institution
  • English proficiency (IELTS 6.0+, varies by course)
  • Financial capacity (tuition + living costs for stay)
  • Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
  • Health insurance (OSHC) for duration of stay
  • Meet health and character requirements

Work Rights

Student visa holders can work:

  • Up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods
  • Unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks (semester holidays)
  • From the date the course starts (not before)

Costs

Indicative annual costs for international students in 2026:

  • Tuition: AUD 25,000-50,000 (Bachelor), AUD 30,000-55,000 (Master), AUD 8,000-22,000 (VET)
  • Living: AUD 21,000-25,000 per year
  • OSHC: AUD 600-2,000 per year
  • 500 visa fee: AUD 2,500 (from 1 July 2026)

English Requirements

Minimum English test scores for the 500 visa:

  • IELTS Academic: 6.0 each band (most courses), 5.5 (some ELICOS)
  • PTE Academic: 50 each band (equivalent to IELTS 6.0)
  • TOEFL iBT: 60-78 total depending on course
  • Cambridge C1 Advanced: 169 each band

Some courses (especially ELICOS) have lower requirements.

Pathway to Permanent Residence

The 500 visa is the first step in a clear PR pathway:

  • 500 Student visa (course duration)
  • → 485 Temporary Graduate (2-3 years)
  • → 189 / 190 / 491 Skilled (permanent)
  • → Australian citizenship (after 4 years as PR)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my family on a 500 visa?

Yes, your spouse and dependent children can be included as secondary applicants on your 500 visa.

Can I change courses on a 500 visa?

Yes, you can change courses within 6 months of starting your first course. After 6 months, changes are more restrictive.

Apply for 500

Ausking provides end-to-end support from course selection to student visa grant.

Phone: +61 (03) 9670 7567