Studying on a Student Visa in Australia: your Student Visa questions answered

With its world-famous beaches, surf culture and coffee; it's no wonder people flock from different corners of the globe to study in Australia. 

But it’s easy to soon feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information at our fingertips. Thankfully, Study Online Australia has answered the most common questions aspiring students ask our expert team.

From student visa costs to the documents you’ll need to apply, find out everything you need to know below.

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What are the requirements for a student visa in Australia?

In order to apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500) in Australia, you must tick the below requirements (please note: the full list of requirements is individually based on each applicant and the college/university you choose):  

• Proof of Overseas Student Health Cover
• A certified copy of your passport
• A certified copy of your current job and/or professional work experience 
• List of family details
• A certified copy of your academic transcripts, qualifications or a letter from your Australian or overseas educational institution 
• Proof of financial resources 
• Proof of English level if required
• Relevant travel information
• Intentions about living arrangements and all questions related to the student visa application must be true 

For further information on what you need to apply for a student visa in Australia, visit our student blog.

How much does a student visa cost?

A Student Visa Subclass 500 in Australia costs $630 for a primary applicant (from July 1st 2020). You must also take into consideration the additional cost of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for yourself and accompanying family members. 

Additional fees which may occur are listed below:

• For an additional applicant who is over 18-years-old and is included in the same student visa application, there is an additional applicant charge of $470.

• For an additional application who is under 18-years-old, there is an additional applicant charge of $155.

• If your current visa has been lodged within Australia, there is a subsequent temporary application charge of $700. This fee applies to every applicant.

If you apply for your student visa with Study Online Australia, our expert team will organise OSHC for you. 

We work closely with nib which offers competitive prices and an instant insurance certificate with your student visa lodgement. You can find up-to-date OSHC costs on our website. ​

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How long is a student visa in Australia?

The length of your student visa depends upon the course you intend to study and additional time may be granted at the end of your studies depending on its length. Note, you can only extend your studies in Australia if long as your visa does not state ‘No Further Stay’. 

We recommend allowing at least three months to research your options and you must lodge your application before your current visa expires. 

The maximum length of stay for a student visa does not usually exceed 5 years. If you wish to extend your stay in Australia, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.

Our experienced education counsellors will explain your entry requirements, the enrolment process and assist with your student visa application.

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Is it easy to get a student visa in Australia?

Aspiring students dreaming of living down under need to meet the set of entry requirements in order to qualify for a student visa. 

Can I bring my family to Australia on a student visa?

The Department of Home Affairs allows certain students to bring their immediate family members (dependents) with them to Australia. 

This may include your spouse, de facto partner (whom you have been living with for a minimum of 12 months) or children under the age of 18. 

It’s important to bear in mind that work rights granted for the dependent partner will depend on the course of study chosen. You must declare all members of your family on your student visa application. 

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What is the best course for PR (permanent residency)?

A large number of international students fall in love with Australia and want to gain permanent residency (PR). In order to live and work here permanently, the most common ways are via Skilled Migration, State Nomination or Employer Nomination.

The list of occupations which are prioritised by the government can change at any time so it’s wise to choose a course which has PR prospects and will continue to be in demand over the coming years. 

For instance, the most sought-after courses are often related to the following: Education, Computer and Information Technology, Nursing and Construction. 

We highly recommend seeking legal advice from a registered MARA agent who will be able to assess your personal situation. Alternatively, you can contact Home Affairs for support. As a registered student visa education agency, we specialise in giving advice on the student visa application process..
You can find up-to-date information on cheap courses in Australia on our website.

How long does it take to get a student visa in Australia?

Student visa processing times in Australia can vary but it is highly recommended that you start preparing the appropriate documents three months in advance.

If your current visa is expiring and you would like to extend your stay in Australia, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team for free advice.

Can I apply for a student visa in Australia on my own?

You can apply for a student visa in Australia on your own but it’s highly recommended that you seek professional help. Study Online Australia is a registered student visa online education agency in Australia and has successfully helped hundreds of international students from around the world. 

Our expert team can help to find the right course for you and will assist with your documents, GTE letter and eventual enrolment. The best part? You don’t pay anything for our services, we’re fully funded.

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Is it easy for international students to get a job in Australia?

Studying in Australia gives students a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to expand their skills and experience. In turn, this can lead to greater job prospects.  

Head over to our guide on working in Australia for top tips on writing a resume and for Student Visa Subclass 500 work conditions.  

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our expert team for free advice and support. Study smarter, choose Study Online Australia. ​