Australian visa guide for students | Your handy guide to obtaining a visa!

Australian visa guide for students | A brief overview

Australia is a popular study destination for international students around the world, thanks to its high-quality education system and diverse culture. However, obtaining a student visa is crucial for any student wishing to study in Australia. This article aims to provide Australian visa guide for students looking to pursue their academic dreams in Australia.

Australian visa guide for students | Types of student visas

There are different types of student visas available to international students looking to study in Australia. These include:

1. Student Visa (Subclass 500)

The student visa (subclass 500) is the most common visa that international students use to study in Australia. This visa allows students to study a full-time course in Australia and work part-time while studying. The visa duration depends on the length of the course and can be extended if the course exceeds the initial visa duration.

To be eligible for the student visa, applicants must have an offer of admission to a registered course in Australia. They must also prove that they have sufficient funds to cover their tuition fees, living expenses, and return airfare.

The application fee for a student visa ranges from AUD 620 to AUD 1,570, depending on the length of the course.

2. Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)

The student guardian visa (subclass 590) is for parents, legal guardians, or relatives who wish to accompany international students who are under 18 years old in Australia. The visa allows guardians to stay with their children and take care of them while they study in Australia.

To be eligible for the student guardian visa, applicants must be a parent, legal guardian, or relative of an international student under the age of 18 who is studying in Australia. The guardian must also prove that they have sufficient funds to support themselves and their child during their stay in Australia.

The application fee for a student guardian visa is AUD 620.

3. Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

The temporary graduate visa (subclass 485) is for international students who have completed their studies in Australia and wish to work in Australia temporarily after their studies. The visa duration depends on the qualification and can range from 18 months to four years.

To be eligible for the temporary graduate visa, applicants must have completed a registered course in Australia within the last six months. They must also have the required level of English proficiency and meet the health and character requirements.

The application fee for a temporary graduate visa ranges from AUD 1,650 to AUD 3,755, depending on the duration of the visa.

Australian visa guide for students | How to apply for an Australian Student Visa?

To apply for an Australian student visa, applicants must follow the steps below:

1. Step-by-step guide to applying for a student visa (Subclass 500)

• Create an account on the Department of Home Affairs website and fill in the online application form.
• Upload all necessary documents, including passport, proof of financial capacity, health insurance, English proficiency test results, and Confirmation of Enrolment (COE).
• Pay the application fee.
• Wait for the visa decision.

2. Step-by-step guide to applying for a student guardian visa (Subclass 590)

• Create an account on the Department of Home Affairs website and fill in the online application form.
• Upload all necessary documents, including proof of legal guardianship, proof of accommodation, and a Statement of Purpose.
• Pay the application fee.
• Wait for the visa decision.

3. Step-by-step guide to applying for a temporary graduate visa (Subclass 485)

• Create an account on the Department of Home Affairs website and fill in the online application form.
• Upload all necessary documents, including evidence of completion of an eligible course, skill assessment test results, and Statement of Purpose.
• Pay the application fee.
• Wait for the visa decision.

Australian visa guide for students | Required documents for an Australian Student Visa

To apply for an Australian student visa, applicants must provide the following documents:

1. Passport – A valid passport is required for all visa applications. The passport must have at least six months of validity remaining.
2. Confirmation of Enrolment (COE) – A COE is a document issued by an educational institution in Australia that confirms that the student has been accepted into a course of study.
3. Financial Capacity – Students must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover their tuition fees, living expenses, and return airfare. Evidence of financial capacity can include bank statements, scholarship letters, or a letter of financial support from a parent or guardian.
4. Health Insurance – International students must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of their stay in Australia.
5. English Language Proficiency – Students must provide evidence of their English language proficiency. Acceptable tests include IELTS, TOEFL, Pearson Test of English (PTE), or Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE).
6. Statement of Purpose – Applicants must provide a statement of purpose outlining their reasons for studying in Australia, their future plans, and how the course of study will contribute to their career goals.
7. Skill Assessment Test Results – Applicants for a temporary graduate visa must provide evidence of a skills assessment test to prove that they have the skills and qualifications necessary for their nominated occupation.
8. Proof of Legal Guardianship – Applicants for a student guardian visa must provide evidence of their legal relationship with the student they are accompanying, such as a birth certificate or adoption papers.

Australian visa guide for students | Tips for a successful visa application

Here are some tips for successful visa application: 

A. Apply early – allow enough time for visa processing and unforeseen circumstances.

B. Provide accurate and complete information – ensure that all information provided is true, complete and correct.

C. Have all required documents ready – make sure that all required documents are ready before starting the application process.

D. Keep a copy of all documents submitted – keep a copy of all documents submitted for future reference.

E. Respond promptly to requests for additional information – respond to any requests from the Department of Home Affairs as soon as possible.

F. Seek professional help if needed – consider seeking professional help from a registered migration agent if you are unsure about any part of the visa application process.

Key takeaways

• Obtaining an Australian student visa is a critical step in the process of studying in Australia. 
• This article has provided a comprehensive guide to the different types of student visas available in Australia, the application process, and the required documents. 
• By following the guidelines outlined in this article, international students can increase their chances of a successful visa application and embark on their academic journey in Australia with confidence.

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FAQs

1. What is the most important document required for a student visa application?

Answer: The Confirmation of Enrolment (COE) is the most important document required for a student visa application.

2. Can I apply for a student visa if I haven’t decided on a course yet?

Answer: No, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (COE) for a full-time CRICOS-registered course to apply for a student visa.

3. Do I need to provide evidence of financial support for a student visa application?

Answer: Yes, you will need to provide evidence of financial support to cover your tuition fees, living costs, and travel expenses for the duration of your stay in Australia.