Student Visa for Australia: Requirements and Procedures

Australia, a renowned destination for work and study, takes the saying ‘no visa, no paradise’ quite literally! Join us as we uncover the ins and outs of the student visa for Australia, turning your dreams into reality.

Based on our extensive experience, in GrowPro we are going to give you the keys to join this great community of adventurous souls who dared to take the big leap. But before all that, first things first: read on and find out how to get your student visa for Australia!

What is the Student visa for Australia?

Among the various visa options available for entry into the Aussie territory, one stands out as the top choice for those looking to both study and work in Australia: the student visa, officially known as the Student Visa (Subclass 500).

This type of visa grants you the legal right to engage in both studying and working in Australia for a duration ranging from three months to five years, depending on the length of your chosen course.

With this visa, you can:

• Study an English course or vocational program in Australia.
• Travel throughout Australia, as well as departing and returning.
• Legally work a part-time job, once you start your course*

*From July 2023, student visa holders for Australia can work 48 hours bi-weekly. 

This means that you can practically live in Australia, at least for a while, get to know it at your leisure, save money and, why not, take a trip to New Zealand or a getaway to Southeast Asia.

Before delving deeper into the details of the Australian student visa, let us provide you with compelling reasons to consider applying for it. You’ll soon discover that it’s a valuable opportunity! GrowPro is here to assist you in moving forward with the application process. If you’re ready to take the next step, provide your contact information and we’ll get in touch to help you along the way.

5 reasons to apply for a student visa to Australia

The benefits of holding an Australian student visa are numerous, making it the most favorable choice if you seek a far more enriching experience than mere travel.

So, here are 5 good reasons to apply (we know you’re already getting excited).

1. Combine study and work

We’ve previously mentioned this, but there’s nothing quite like the peace of mind that comes with legal compliance. With an Australian student visa, you can work up to 24 hours per week during the school term and up to 48 hours per week during breaks.

Get to know our experiences here.

2. Leveraging a world-class education system

Australia’s reputation as a top choice for studying abroad isn’t without reason. It’s not limited to just English language education; it also encompasses VET courses and university programs. The country’s commitment to academic excellence is enhanced by its multicultural, inclusive, and competitive environment, all aimed at ensuring your success in the professional world.

3. Access to employment agreements

Another reason to apply for your student visa to Australia is that work opportunities are also available to you through internships offered by VET courses. These programs focus on developing work skills, allowing you to take your first steps in an industry.

4. Learning English is a piece of cake

Enroll in a course while immersing yourself completely in the English language, and you’ll soon discover a world of opportunities to practice and enhance your skills. In just a matter of weeks, you’ll be proudly flaunting your Australian English fluency and, naturally, expanding your horizons for professional prospects.

You can choose an intensive English course if you only plan to dedicate three months or less to mastering the language; a general course to perfect your listening, speaking, writing, and reading skills over a longer stay, or to prepare for the IELTS or Cambridge exams. In addition, you can combine them with a VET.

5. Wander through Australia at your leisure

It’s what we told you above, you can not only get up close and personal with the wonders of Australia, and explore New Zealand, but also venture to Indonesia or Bali. This is a highly popular travel route from this region.

Requirements for the Australian Student visa

The most crucial aspect, one that has been a common query, is the student visa requirements for Australia. We will outline the necessary documents you must collect and have prepared to initiate the application process.

Feeling a bit nervous? It’s always a good idea to keep in mind that proper planning is key. Remember, you should apply for your Australian student visa at least six weeks before your course starts.

The requirements are no big deal, so relax. Anyway, at GrowPro we take care of that and all the cumbersome parts so you only have to worry about enjoying your new adventure. Here we go.

1. Valid Passport

Crucial. For this and any other immigration procedure, it is necessary to check that your passport has not expired or is not about to expire. And if you don’t have one yet, what are you waiting for?

If you’ve legally changed your name, make sure to have the necessary documentation to support it. This situation may arise, for instance, if you’re transgender and have updated your legal identity, or if you’ve undergone a divorce in a country where taking your spouse’s last name is customary upon marriage.

2. Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE)

When you enroll in an accredited English language school or authorized study center in Australia, you get a code to certify that you are officially registered.

This means that before applying for your student visa to Australia, you must have chosen your course, your city, and your school and have enrolled. But if you still have no idea, don’t worry, we will tell you more about it later on.

3. Proof that you have financial funds for your stay

Depending on your country, you may be asked to provide proof that you will be able to cover your costs when entering Aussie territory. The cost of living in Australia can vary from city to city, so it will depend on which city you choose.

You must be able to demonstrate that you have enough money to cover your travel. That is, 12 months of your course costs and 12 months of basic living expenses.

For one year of study in Australia, the Australian Government mandates a minimum financial requirement of AUD 21,041*, excluding course fees. If your program is shorter, you can calculate your financial requirement by dividing this amount by 365 and then multiplying the result by the number of days you intend to stay.

You must also certify if you receive sponsorship from any institution or if you requested a loan with the corresponding documents.

4. International health insurance

Another necessary requirement to apply for a student visa to Australia is the proof of payment of an Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). This is the international medical insurance that will cover you in case you suffer any illness or accident. The duration of the contract must be equal to the duration of your visa.

5. Writing a GTE letter

Similar to a heartfelt love letter or a traditional courtship, it’s essential to compose a Genuine Temporary Entrant letter, detailing your motivations for choosing to study in Australia.

Along with it, it is advisable to attach the documents that prove what you include in your writing: previous studies, certificates, prizes, etc.

Ensure effective organization of the information you wish to convey. This step significantly enhances the chances of smoother approval for your application.

6. Pay the student visa fee for Australia

The student visa fee for Australia is 715 AUD, unless you qualify for an exemption from the Visa Application Charge (VAC). Exemptions apply in cases such as scholarships sponsored by the Commonwealth Government of Australia or for family members of students enrolled in a postgraduate research course.

If you’re seeking even more detailed information, you can explore the primary source: the official Australian Government website, where you can delve into comprehensive details about the requirements for an Australian student visa. It’s also a great opportunity to practice your English skills. Should you desire personalized assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.

Courses you can take with the Australian Student visa

If you’re unsure about which course to pursue with your student visa, we’re here to guide you through the available options. The good news is, many of these courses offer the opportunity to study and work in Australia concurrently, unless you opt for an intensive program. There are three main categories of studies to consider:

• English Courses: general English, intensive or preparation for official exams
• VET or vocational courses: courses in various professional fields such as marketing, business, tourism, etc.
• University courses: here we speak of bachelor’s, master’s and postgraduate courses.

Below, we explain one by one.

1. ELICOS English courses with your student visa for Australia

English courses in Australia, also called ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students), are taught in more than 200 official schools approved by the Australian government.

It is one of the most popular options for foreign students seeking a better future and quality education in the antipodes. There are three types:

General English

With the General English courses, you will learn the language and strengthen the 4 basic skills: reading, writing, comprehension, and expression. You can start them at any time of the year and with any level of English since you take a test to place you at an appropriate level.

They last between 3 months and two years and with the schedules, you will be able to work in Australia part-time!

Intensive English

Prefer something faster? Don’t worry. ELICOS intensive courses have the same objectives as the general courses but in a much shorter period of time. They can last from two weeks to three months.

Official certificates

If you’re aiming to secure an English certificate like TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge, this program is tailor-made for you. It provides the essential preparation needed to attain top scores and earn your official qualification.

This will provide you with significant advantages when it comes to securing employment in Australia or anywhere in the world. You’re already aware of the opportunities it opens up.

2. VET courses with your student visa

VET courses, or Vocational Education and Training courses, are ideal for those who already have a sufficient level of English to cope with their daily lives and prefer to pursue other types of studies in Australia.

These programs cover a wide range of academic disciplines, spanning from design and sports to education, healthcare, business, tourism, and many more.

3. Study at university with your student visa for Australia

As if that was not enough, in Australia it is possible for people from other countries to pursue higher education. You have the possibility to start or continue a university degree or take a postgraduate course. They usually cost 20,000 AUD excluding living expenses.

Therefore, in addition to working, the options you have to access this type of visa are usually to obtain some kind of scholarship, to do a university exchange program, etc.

Working on a student visa to Australia

Sure, you’re probably aware that making the most of your student visa, particularly the work permit it provides, is an excellent way to recoup your investment. While the cost of living in major Australian cities isn’t the most budget-friendly, the minimum wage here offers you a comfortable living.

By the way, it’s worth noting that the current minimum wage in Australia stands at AUD 23.23 per hour*. This is a key figure to keep in mind to ensure you don’t accept offers with lower pay for a job.

The best part is that finding a job as a student can be easier than you think in a country with a low unemployment rate.
Considering your unique profile, skills, knowledge, and experience, you’ll discover a variety of employment opportunities across different sectors in the Australian job market. For instance, some fields offering ample job prospects for students include:

• Sales clerk or store assistant
• Waiter or waitress
• Kitchen assistant
• Barista and bartender
• Cleaner
• Au Pair
• Deliverymen

Remember that you can work 48 hours every two weeks. And, depending on the job, you will need to have a certain level of English that can be demonstrated by an official certificate or an exam upon arrival.

* This figure is subject to annual changes.

Steps to apply for the Student visa to Australia

Now that you’re familiar with the requirements, let’s break it down step by step, making it easier for you to stay on track. This way, you’ll have a clear starting point, and you won’t feel overwhelmed.

1. Choose the Australian city you like most

Australia has super cool cities and the choice might be a bit tough. You can choose from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Byron Bay, Perth or Adelaide.

2. Choose the course you wish to take and enroll

You’re already aware that the options are plenty! If you’re eager to learn English in Australia, there are fantastic certified schools, and let’s not forget about the awesome Australian universities. If you could use some guidance on picking the right course or school, simply pick an experience here and fill out the contact form!

3. Get your international health insurance

Don’t forget that it is a prerequisite to apply for your student visa to Australia.

4. Apply for your visa

The moment you’ve been waiting for – the most crucial step. Make sure to bookmark this article for when you embark on your journey; it’s bound to be an invaluable resource as you dive into the process.

5. Pack your bags and buy your airline ticket to Australia

You’ve been approved for your visa and you’re so excited! Now it’s time to get a cheap flight to Australia and wait for your travel day while packing and saying goodbye to your family and friends.

6. Start living the adventure of a lifetime

The only thing you might regret is not trying. Remember that we are here to accompany you every step of the way.

Apply for your student visa to Australia with GrowPro

With a decade of experience under our belt, we’re excited to inspire you to step out of your comfort zone. The ideal reason to embark on a journey is to seize the opportunity while you study and work abroad! All it takes is selecting one of our experiences to kick-start your adventure. Ready to take that first step?

Now, go ahead and complete the contact form so that one of our Student Advisors can guide you and help shape your fantastic journey. No need to stress! We’ll be by your side every step of the way. Plus, we’ll handle all your visa arrangements, making the process even smoother!

Book with us, and we’ll see you Down Under in Australia real soon!