Why Australia Remains a Top Choice for International Students
Do you want to study in Australia? The Student Visa (Subclass 500) is your gateway to an exciting academic and career journey. Choosing where to study is one of the biggest career decisions you’ll make. In 2025, Australia continues to be one of the most trusted destinations for international education, offering world-class universities, cutting-edge research, and globally recognised qualifications.
But beyond academics, what really sets Australia apart is its career-focused education system. From professional internships and industry placements to post-study work opportunities, studying in Australia equips students with the skills, confidence, and network to succeed globally.
Whether you are aiming for a business degree in Sydney, engineering in Melbourne, or research in Perth, your Australian qualification can be a gateway to global opportunities.
Understanding the Student Visa (Subclass 500)
The Student Visa (Subclass 500) is your key to studying full-time at an accredited Australian institution. It allows you to:
- Enroll in a CRICOS-registered course
- Work part-time (up to 48 hours per fortnight) during study periods
- Work unlimited hours during breaks
- Bring your eligible family members with you
- Access post-study work opportunities after graduation
The Student Visa is open to applicants from around the world and covers all levels of study, from vocational training and bachelor’s degrees to postgraduate and research programs.
Study in Australia: 2025 Student Visa Requirements
To qualify for the Subclass 500 visa, you’ll need to:
- Have a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian institution
- Meet English language requirements
- Show evidence of financial capacity
- Maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Prove that you’re a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE)
- Satisfy health and character checks
The Department of Home Affairs may also request additional evidence, depending on your nationality and the education provider’s risk rating under the Simplified Student Visa Framework (SSVF).
Financial Evidence — Proving You Can Afford Your Stay
In 2025, one of the biggest updates to the student visa process is the increased financial requirements.
When applying, you must show that you can genuinely support yourself and any dependents during your studies in Australia.
Minimum living cost requirements:
- Student: AUD 29,710 per year
- Partner: AUD 10,394 per year
- Each child: AUD 4,449 per year
- Schooling (per child): AUD 13,502 per year
You must also include:
- 12 months of tuition fees (or pro rata if your course is shorter)
- Return travel costs, typically between AUD 1,000–3,000, depending on your region
If you choose to use the annual income option, your parents or partner must show a minimum annual income of:
- AUD 87,856 (if applying alone)
- AUD 102,500 (if applying with family)
Evidence can include:
- Savings or deposits from a financial institution
- Government or institutional loans
- Scholarships or official sponsorships
- Official tax documents (for annual income option)
💡 Tip: It’s not just about showing the money — you must also prove you have genuine access to those funds. Consistent bank statements and proper documentation are key.
(Source: Department of Home Affairs – Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Steps to Apply for a Student Visa to Study in Australia
- Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
– This comes from your education provider once you’ve been accepted. - Create an ImmiAccount– All student visa applications are lodged online via immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.
- Prepare your documents– Check the Document Checklist Tool to confirm what evidence is needed for your country and institution.
- Pay the visa fee– The base visa application charge is currently from AUD2,000.00 (unless exempt), as of 10 October 2025
- Submit your application and respond promptly to any requests for further information.
Processing Times
Visa processing times vary depending on your nationality, education provider, and the completeness of your application.
On average:
- 90% of applications are finalised within 5 months (Your visa may take longer to process if the information required for your visa is incomplete or missing.)
Check the visa processing times here.
Work Rights for Students
Under your Student Visa:
- You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session.
- You can work unlimited hours during semester breaks.
- If you’re completing a Master’s by Research or PhD, you can work unlimited hours after your course begins.
The balance between study and work lets you gain valuable Australian work experience while focusing on your studies. Always check your visa conditions to make sure you abide by them. This is crucial to avoid any immigration issues in the future.
Why Get Professional Help If You Plan To Study in Australia
Applying for a student visa can be overwhelming, especially with constantly evolving financial and GTE requirements. A Registered Migration Agent can help ensure your application is complete, compliant, and positioned for success. Our team of Education and Migration Agents provide the full service from start to finish including strategic course selection, enrollment application and student visa.
We have helped hundreds of international students navigate the process and start their studies in Australia with confidence. Speak with our Registered Education Agents today!
We’ve compiled everything you need to know, from eligibility and costs to visa conditions and work rights, into one easy-to-read guide. Download your FREE 2025 Student Visa Guide today.
Pro tip: Did you know you can get insider updates from our migration experts and ask your questions in real time? Join the Visa Support Membership today for only $49 AUD.