skilled migration visa australia, 189 subclass visa australia - VisaAdvisor
Home » Student & Graduate Visas » Subclass 500 Student Visa

Study in Australia with the Subclass 500 Visa—Your Path to World-Class Education

The Subclass 500 Visa allows international students to study at leading Australian universities and institutions. Discover your study opportunities today!

️ 🧮 Check My Eligibility

Visa Snapshot

Visa Type: Temporary Visa

Duration: Up to 5 years (depends on the length of your course)

Eligible Applicants: International students accepted into an Australian education institution

Work Rights: Limited work rights (up to 40 hours per fortnight during semester and unlimited during holidays)

Study Rights: Full-time study at an eligible Australian institution

Pathway to Permanent Residency: No direct pathway; can be linked to post-study work opportunities with Subclass 485.

Processing Time: 1 to 4 months (varies by application and individual circumstances)

Family Inclusion: Dependent family members (spouse, children) may be included.

Healthcare: Must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of stay

Visa Fees: Starting from AUD 2000 (additional fees may apply depending on circumstances)

Visa Overview - Subclass 500 Student Visa

The Subclass 500 Student Visa allows international students to live, study, and work in Australia temporarily while enrolled in a full-time course at an accredited Australian institution. This visa is designed to support students pursuing higher education, vocational education, and English language studies in Australia.

Key Features:

Full-Time Study: Enables international students to study full-time at an Australian education institution.

Work Rights: Students can work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the semester and unlimited hours during breaks.

Dependent Family Members: Eligible dependents (spouse, children) may accompany the student.

Healthcare: Applicants must maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay.

This is a temporary visa that provides a pathway to post-study work opportunities with Subclass 485 for eligible graduates.

Why Choose the Subclass 500 Student Visa?

Top Educational Institutions: Study at world-renowned Australian universities and colleges.

Work While Studying: Work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the semester, unlimited during holidays.

International Experience: Live in a multicultural environment and gain global exposure.

Post-Study Work Opportunities: Eligible for Subclass 485 for post-study work rights.

Family Support: Bring your spouse and dependent children along with you.

Safe and High-Quality Living: Enjoy a safe, English-speaking environment with high living standards.

Healthcare Coverage: Mandatory Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for medical support during your stay.

Eligibility Criteria: Subclass 500 Student Visa

Genuine student (GS): Must prove intention to study temporarily.

Financial Capacity: Proof of sufficient funds for tuition, living expenses, and travel.

English Proficiency: Meet English language requirements (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).

Health Insurance: Must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

Health & Character: Meet health and character requirements.

🧮 Download Eligibility Checklist

🔍 Step-by-Step Process: Subclass 500 – Student Visa

1
Check eligibility
2
Enrol in a full-time course
3
Receive Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
4
Provide biometrics (if needed)
5
Complete health check
6
Submit a visa application
7
Wait for the decision
8
Visa grant

Common Mistakes to Avoid ​​

Incorrect visa documentation

Failing to provide sufficient financial proof

Submitting incomplete health and character information

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

Ensure all documentation is current and complete

Verify financial documentation meets DHA’s requirements

Complete the health check in advance.

Family Members You Can Include

Eligible family members can accompany the primary visa applicant, including:

Family Members You Can Include

Spouse: Your legally married partner or de facto partner.

Children: Your dependent children under the age of 18.

Stepchildren: Children of your partner who are dependent on you.

Other Dependents: In some cases, dependent relatives may be included, if they rely on you for financial support.

After Visa Grant​

Start Studies: Begin your course in Australia.

Work Rights: Work up to 40 hours/fortnight during the semester, unlimited during holidays.

Family Rights: Accompanying family members can live, work, and study.

Visa Conditions: Maintain full-time enrollment and OSHC.

Post-Study Options: Apply for Subclass 485 if eligible after graduation.

Required Documents What You’ll Need ​

Primary Applicant

Passport

Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

English language test results (IELTS/PTE)

Health and character documents (police check, medical records)

Evidence of sufficient funds

Dependents and Partners

Relationship proof (marriage certificate, de facto evidence).

Health and character documents for dependents

📥 Download Full Subclass 500 Checklist

Visa Fees & Processing Time

TypeDetails & Fee (AUD)
🧾 Government Visa FeeApprox. AUD 2,000
👥 Addtional Applicant 18+AUD 1,225
👥 Addtional Applicant below 18AUD 400
⏳ Processing Time1 to 4 Months (90% of Application)

🧰 Tools & Downloads

Discover free tools to help you plan, prepare, and lodge your visa with confidence.  

Download Full Subclas 500 Student Visa Pack
Download Full Subclas 500 Student Visa Pack
Download
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Discover

❓Subclass 500 Student Visa
Frequently Asked Questions

You can stay for the duration of your course plus an additional 2 months (or up to 4 months for PhD or master’s research). 

Yes, you can apply from outside Australia if you meet all eligibility requirements, including having a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). 

Yes, you can bring your spouse or de facto partner and dependent children, who must meet health and character requirements. 

Yes, you can work up to 40 hours per fortnight during term time and full-time during breaks.

You may be eligible for the Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485) to stay and work in Australia. You can also explore permanent residency options later.

OSHC is mandatory health insurance for international students, covering medical expenses during your stay in Australia.

📞 Book a Free Consultation with a Migration Expert

Speak directly with a MARA-registered migration agent and have your Skilled Visa strategy explained step-by-step — at no cost.

  • 100% Free
  • No Obligation
  • Confidential Advice
📖 Book a Free Consultation

Why Trust Visa Advisor?

Choosing the right migration partner can make all the difference. 

 Here’s why Visa Advisor is the trusted choice

Expert Guidance

MARA-registered agents with years of experience simplify your migration journey.

Transparent Pricing

Clear, upfront costs with no hidden fees—just honest advice.

Global Support

Flexible online and in-person consultations, wherever you are.

Smart Tools

Advanced visa finders and calculators to make decisions easier.

Proven Results

Trusted by clients for reliable, personalized migration support.

Disclaimer
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not guarantee visa approval. All visa applications are subject to the discretion of the Australian Department of Home Affairs. For personalized guidance, please contact a registered migration agent at Visa Advisor.