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Applying for an Australian student visa?

Here’s all you need to know about student visa requirements

Keen to study in Sydney?

As an international student, studying abroad is an exciting opportunity. But it’s important that you understand what visa requirements there are to study at a university in Australia and how to get the visa that you need.

To make it easy, here’s what you need to know about student visa requirements.

Yes, as an Australian university, international students studying at UNSW Sydney require a valid visa. You will need to apply for a student visa (Subclass 500) from the Department of Home Affairs for the length of your program. 

With a student visa you can:

• travel in and out of Australia during the visa period
• participate in an eligible course of study
• work a limited number of hours during terms and unlimited hours during term breaks

By holding a valid student visa during your study at UNSW Sydney, you may also be eligible to apply for a temporary post-study work visa (Subclass 485) upon completion if you want to launch your career in Australia. 

There are some requirements you need to meet to apply for an Australian student visa. You’ll need to provide evidence to prove that you are eligible for this visa. 

We’ve prepared a checklist to help you prepare.

• Accept your UNSW offer and enrol in your courses:  Once you received a UNSW offer, you can accept your offer and pay the deposit via our online portal . After that, you can enrol  into your desired courses to start studying at UNSW. Once the deposit has cleared, we will send you a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), which is a document that you will need to submit with your visa application.  Find out more about CoE . 
• Arrange your Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC):  It’s essential to have health insurance to cover the whole period of your stay in Australia. There are plenty of insurers in the market that you can choose from. Medibank is the preferred provider for UNSW students. It’s important that you arrange your OSHC policy before you apply for a student visa and you’ll need to submit evidence with your visa application. Find out more about OSHC .
• Make welfare arrangements if you are under 18 years:  If you will be under 18 when entering Australia to begin a course at UNSW, you must have approved accommodation and welfare arrangements in place before a student visa can be issued. These arrangements are regulated by the Australian government to ensure student safety and wellbeing. UNSW Under 18 Care Program is available to eligible students who need to have welfare arrangements. Know more about UNSW Under 18 Care Program .
• Meet the finance, health and character requirements:  You’ll need to provide evidence to show that you have enough funds to support your stay in Australia, and meet the health and character requirements set out by the Australian government. You might also need to provide evidence to show that you have met English language requirements. To see what you will need to provide evidence of, use the Document Checklist Tool .
• Meet the Genuine Student (GS) Requirement: Student visa applicants from selected regions also need to prove they have met the Genuine Student (GS) requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs. UNSW has developed some additional steps to help international students meet the visa requirement. Make sure that you understand these extra steps if you need to complete a GS check. Find out more about GS requirements.

From 23 March 2024, the Genuine Student (GS) requirement replaces the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement for Student visas.  Student visa applications lodged before 23 March 2024 will be assessed according to the current GTE assessment, while applications lodged on or after 23 March 2024 will be assessed according to the new arrangement. Please refer to the Department of Home Affairs  website for more information.

Once you have all the required documents ready, you can apply for a student visa online through the Department of Home Affairs website. Follow this step-by-step guide and create an immiAccount to start your application online.

Processing times for visas can vary anywhere from 3 days to 9 months or more. Make sure you allow enough time in case of any delays and provide all required documentation for your best chance of being processed quickly.

We suggest you start applying for your student visa as soon as you receive your CoE.

Yes, student visas allow you to work, however there are particular restrictions. You can’t work until you have commenced your course at UNSW. 

From 1 July 2023, student visa holders can work for up to 48 hours per fortnight during terms, and unlimited hours during term breaks. Work beyond the capped hours may cause your visa to be cancelled. 

Make sure you understand work restrictions and your work rights as an international student before you start working.

Changes to your enrolment, such as taking program leave, completing your studies early or needing more time to complete your studies, will impact your student visa duration.

It’s important that you obey your visa conditions, which are set out in your visa granting letter. If your situation does change, you should make sure you take any actions that may be required in accordance with your visa.

Understand what you need to do if your study situation changes here . 

To apply for a student visa and for information about your application, visit the Department of Home Affairs website, which is the official source of truth for visa-related information. You can find details about cost, your eligibility, your rights and initiate your visa application on this website.

Our Future Student Advisers are here to help if you have any questions about your study at UNSW.

If you are a current student returning to Australia or you would like to discuss the conditions of your student visa and your studies, please contact the Nucleus Student Hub .

Ready to achieve your goals with UNSW Sydney?

Check entry requirements, fees, and everything you need to know to apply as an international student.

As one of the top universities in Australia, we’re here to help you move toward a better future. If you have any questions about studying at UNSW Sydney or how you can make your studies work for you, contact us below. 

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Total student visa arrivals in the year-to-date March 2024 were 88 per cent of what they were in the year-to-date March 2019.

In March 2024 there were 44,580 international student arrivals to Australia, a decrease of 9,060 students compared with the corresponding month of the previous year.

Considerations for interpreting this data

• The student visa arrivals figures in the chart and table above represent the number of movements of travellers with a student visa rather than the number of travellers. Individuals who travel multiple times in a year on a student visa are counted each time they cross Australia’s borders.
• The state or territory relates to the traveller’s intended address in Australia as outlined on their passenger card as completed on arrival.
• For confidentiality reasons, estimates are rounded to the nearest 10. As a result, sums of the components may not add exactly to totals.

Source: Based on Australian Bureau of Statistics data

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• SOP for Australian Student Visa- Sample, Format & Tips

Sample SOP for Australian Student Visa with Format & Tips

Make the perfect sop for entry to an australian university.

An SOP for Student Visa is your first step to actualizing your study abroad aspirations. A statement of purpose is a vital document that is presented to the immigration officers along with your visa application. It summarises your achievements and articulates your reasons for choosing a specific country for higher studies. Overall, it highlights your worthiness for a student visa before the immigration authorities.

Help me write my SOP for Australia

What is an SOP for Australia?

SOP is a mandatory document for your Australian student visa application , especially for students who intend to pursue higher education at a top Australian university . The statement of purpose or SOP clearly outlines your academic and family background, reasons for choosing Australia as your study destination, your ability to support your studies financially, and your intentions of leaving Australia after completing your study program. It is your one chance to directly communicate and convince the immigration officials of your worth and genuine intent to study there.

Importance of an SOP for an Australian University

When you choose to study at a university in Australia , you must submit a Statement of Purpose, proving that you are a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) . Besides, an SOP is also a clear reflection of your intent behind choosing Australia for study purposes.

Get free assistance to study in Australia

How is an Australian SOP Different from that of Other Countries?

An SOP for Australia primarily focuses on the facts and evidence in your academic and professional background, not on long narratives or detailed descriptions.

Australian immigration authorities are more interested in learning how you intend to put your academic knowledge and skills into practice to revolutionize your field of work. Hence, it is important to stick to academic achievements, proficiencies, and skills that highlight this fact and avoid storytelling and long narratives that other countries accept.

An SOP for Australia is written in a well-structured format

Australia prefers an SOP in text format, whereas some countries accept video essays in combination with SOP. 

An Australian university demands SOP only for some specific courses such as Arts, Business, and Education, whereas countries like the US or Canada mandate SOP submission for bachelors and graduate courses as well.

What is the Format of an SOP for an Australian student visa?

A Statement of Purpose for an Australian student visa follows a specific structured format as detailed below:

Introduction:  Talk about yourself and briefly discuss your family background

Past History:  Highlight your academic and professional history so far. Stress on your financial capability to support your stay in Australia during the duration of the program.

Course Details:  Share complete details about the course you intend to study in Australia and information about the university you have applied to.

Reasons for Choosing Australia:  Share your reasons for choosing Australia over other countries (especially your home country) for your study program.

Academic or Professional Gaps:  Mention any gaps you may have had in your academic or professional experience. Also, state the exact reasons for the gap year(s).

Future Goals:  Talk briefly about your vision and short and long-term goals for the future.

Conclusion: Mention any past travel history in Australia or any other country. Also, do share details of any visas that you applied for and the reasons why those visas were denied or rejected (if applicable).

Tips for writing a winning SOP for an Australian student visa

Make a note of the following good practices while writing an SOP for your student visa to Australia:

SOP Sample for Australia Student Visa

To further understand how to write an SOP for Australia Student Visa, let us look at an  SOP sample for Australia.  Please note that these samples are only for your reference. Avoid using this, as it would constitute plagiarism and could lead to the denial of your application.

I, Anisha Bhatnagar, am a student of Business Management, a subject that had me excited from the beginning, thanks to my business family background. I grew up in a household where my father and nearly all of my relatives were actively involved in the family business. Hence, some common business terminologies, such as ROI, capital, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and the like, were familiar to me from as young as the age of eight years. It was no surprise then (neither to myself nor to my family) that I, too, was interested in delving into the depths of running and managing a business, growing older.

I am the eldest of three children and belong to an affluent family in India. My father owns and manages his own business of garments and textiles back home with the support of his two brothers, who are also equal partners in the business. As such, I can assure you that I can fully bear all my expenses (accommodation, school fees, and the like) during my study program in Australia. I am highly motivated to hone my business acumen, and I have no doubt that a Masters in Business Management from an Australian university can help me realize my goals.

I have applied for a Masters in Business Management study program at the Melbourne Business School. The course is for two years and will be full-time. It would help me better understand running, managing, and administering everyday business activities. Besides, it would also be an excellent opportunity to select the specific industry in which I wish to start a business. And, of course, having learned the basics of setting up and running a business entity smoothly, I can aspire to grow and flourish my business in the specific target market. In addition, I have a keen interest in textile design, and I wish to use my business management skills to further my efforts at making a successful career in this domain.

While considering the options for studying abroad, I chose Australia over other countries because of the high quality of infrastructure and educational courses that it provides. Moreover, the universities and business schools in your country are recognised worldwide for their high rankings and exceptional student results in their respective fields of study. Not to forget, Australia has a warm and friendly ambience that embraces people from different communities and cultures worldwide, making them feel welcome and at home.

Even though I completed my Bachelors in Business Management (BBM) from the University of Delhi, India, I would like to pursue my Masters program in Australia and not in my home country, India, because I feel that I will be able to earn a much more diversified learning experience by crossing boundaries and exchanging ideas with my peers in the other side of the world. Apart from gaining diverse cultural experiences, this would also be an excellent opportunity for me to gain much-desired exposure to the academic arena of a nation other than the one where I have spent several years of my study life.

I would also like to confess that after completing my graduation in Business Management two years ago, I had to take a break from my studies for the last two years due to an unfortunate event that hit my family close and deeply. I lost my mother to COVID two years ago. Her sudden and untimely demise brought forth an array of domestic responsibilities for me (being the only woman left in the house). Also, I did not think it proper to leave my father alone for an opportunity to study abroad for two years since he was still recovering from the incident. Hence, I postponed my study application to Australia for a Masters program back then.

I now feel that the time is right for me to reapply, resume the process, and pick up my academic journey from where I left off. With that desire in mind, I humbly request you to consider my application for a Masters in Business Management course at the Melbourne Business School for the academic year 2023-25. After completing this two-year program, I wish to return to India and put all the knowledge and skills earned during the course to good use.

For starters, I would like to assist my father in growing and expanding his business domain by applying real-world successful business principles. This would help him and enable me to assess my skills and proficiencies. I then dream of setting up my own business and creating my unique identity as a successful businesswoman. I am well aware that success and responsibility go hand-in-hand. Therefore, I wish to use my business acumen for the benefit of society at large by creating and disseminating products and services that do more good to a larger section of the community.

For instance, I would like to combine my knowledge of administering and managing a business with my skill in textile design to create and promote some unique designs for my market. Business is about serving people and bringing joy into their lives by offering something new, innovative, and creative every time. And this is exactly what I hope my Masters degree in Business will help me achieve. Besides, I would also be able to use newer technologies in the right way to turn my passion for textile design into a viable and profitable business venture.            

On a side note, I’d like to bring to your kind attention that I have travelled to Australia before on a short family vacation 10 years ago. We had travelled on Tourist Visa back then for almost three months. I have to admit that I was in awe of the gorgeous natural beauty of the beaches and islands in this country at first sight, and I did always secretly wish to return to this mesmerising land ever since. So I sincerely hope that my dream will be fulfilled now.

I hope my application meets your selection criteria and that my dream of pursuing a Masters in Business Management course at the Melbourne Business School comes true.

How do I begin an SOP for Australia?

Start with an introduction telling the university about your family, academic, and professional background in brief. Also, express your intent to pursue the specific course at the university.

1. What does GTE or SOP mean for Australia?

An SOP for Australian Student Visa serves as proof for GTE or Genuine Temporary Entrant. This helps the immigration authorities determine whether the applicant intends permanent residency in Australia after completing the study program or wishes to return to their home country. In other words, the SOP enables the visa authorities to know the genuine intention behind the individual’s application.

2. What is the format for the SOP?

A standard Statement of Purpose written for any country university is roughly two pages long. The text is written in a 12-point font, using double spaces in normal margins. The normal word count for an SOP ranges between 800 and 1000 words. 

3. What word count is appropriate for an Australian SOP?

An SOP application for an Australian student visa is somewhere around 1000 words and can go up to a maximum of 1500 words. 

4. How do you finish an SOP?

The concluding paragraph of your SOP should summarise the most important points covered in the document. It should also reiterate your desire to study at the university, highlighting why you should be selected over the other applicants.

5. Does an Australian Student Visa require an SOP?

Yes, the immigration authorities in Australia demand submission of an SOP before the issuance of an International Student Visa.

6. How much gap is accepted to study in Australia?

Every university in Australia has its criteria for acceptance of academic and professional gaps in a student SOP. All universities generally accept small gap periods of 1-2 years. Make sure to provide the exact reasons for the same in your application. 

Help me study abroad

Updated on January 13, 2023

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8 Tips to Improve Your Student Visa Application

Jun 27, 2019 | Blog

Applying for a Student Visa can seem tricky if you’re unsure of the process. We’ve applied for thousands of Student Visas and have come across some simple, yet critical steps that can increase the chances of a Student Visa being approved.

Always Provide Complete and Accurate Information on the Student Visa Application Form

In general, the Student Visa Application is submitted online using the Form 157A. The Application requires in-depth and detailed information, including personal details of all Applicants, family members, education history, employment history, and travel history, just to name a few. It is crucial that you provide all information as accurately as possible.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when filling-in the Application Form:

• Ensure all Passport information and National ID Card information is correct for all Applicants
• Provide a Residential Address and Contact Information for your Home Country
• Provide All Academic and Employment History (including in Australia) for the Primary Applicant
• Provide All Travel Information for All Applicants over 18
• Provide Details and Explanations for Any Character and Health Questions
• Provide false or incorrect information
• Forget to list any family members, especially those who you will wish to add to your visa now or in the future
• List insufficient finances
• Forget to review the Application Draft before submitting.

Write a Convincing Genuine Student Statement

The Genuine Student Statement is arguably one of the most important aspects of your Student Visa Application. The Student Visa is a Temporary Visa, meaning that at the time you apply for it, your intentions to stay in Australia should be temporary in nature. Immigration want to see that you are not trying use a Student Visa to remain in the country or gain residency, but that you genuinely want to study in Australia to take advantage of the great education system here.

To write a great Genuine Student Statement:

• Your homework on the Course, the Education Provider and the Location where you’ll be studying
• Show a genuine interest in the course and subject matter
• Relate the course to your previous education and/or work experience OR show Good reason for changing careers
• Emphasise your personal and social ties to your home country
• Your research on the employment opportunities relating to your course in your home country
• Mention any intention to apply for additional visas or Permanent Residence at the end of your course (such as Graduate, Skilled Work or Partner Visa)
• Mention your intention to seek out employment in Australia after your course finishes
• Discuss poor economic, political or employment circumstances in your home country
• Provide false information

You can find more tips on how to write a Great Genuine Student Statement Here.

Meet the Health and Character Requirements

It is a requirement that you meet certain Health and Character Requirements in order for visa to be approved. In some cases, you may still be eligible for a Student Visa even if you have been convicted of a crime, have been refused or overstayed a visa, owe a debt to the Australian Government, or have a medical condition. You will be required to provide information and documentation to overcome these situations.

Show Sufficient Funds

You are required to indicate that you have sufficient funds to cover the costs of living and studying in Australia. Applicants from some countries may be required to show evidence of sufficient funds; whereas Applicants from other countries only need to indicate they have sufficient funds on the Application Form. If you indicate anything less than the minimum amount required or if the evidence you provide is out of date or does not meet the requirement, your application may be refused.

The current financial requirements can be found here.

Arrange Overseas Student Health Coverage (“OSHC”) for the Full Duration of Your Studies in Australia

All Applicants are required to have OSHC for the duration of the course. Typically, the student visa will be granted only for as long as the duration of your OSHC. Depending on the duration of your course, Immigration will permit you to stay in Australia for a temporary period after your course ends to allow you to tie up your loose ends, so long as your OSHC extends to cover this additional period.

Complete Biometrics/Medical/Requests for More Information on Time

In some instances, you will be requested to complete biometrics collection or a medical exam or will be required to provide additional information. The request will indicate the length of time you have to complete the tasks or provide the information to immigration. It is typically 28 days. These tasks are time sensitive and if you do not complete the tasks or request an extension in the allotted time, immigration may refuse your visa application.

For more information on medical assessment and biometrics assessment click here.

Keep Immigration Up-to-Date

It is important that you notify Immigration if there have been any significant changes in circumstances. In particular, if you move to a new address or change your email address or phone number, you need to inform immigration so that they can contact you if necessary. Additionally, if you get a new passport, you must notify immigration to be sure your visa corresponds to the correct passport.

Use a Trusted and Experienced Education/Migration Agency

When considering applying for a student visa or any other visa, it is wise to consult a Registered Migration Agent. Immigration Policy changes frequently and there are several nuances to an Application that require a trained and experienced eye. If you have any questions or need any assistance, once of our Registered Migration Agents are happy to assist.

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Australian Visa and Entry Requirements FAQs

Learn about visa requirements for entry to Australia for tourism purposes with this list of frequently asked questions. 

Please note this page is intended to provide general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Tourism Australia is not the Australian government visa granting authority. For information on visas to enter Australia, visitors should seek the most up-to-date information from Australian Government Department of Home Affairs .*

Ready to plan your trip? We're ready to welcome you! Here are some helpful tips for getting your visa sorted: 

• Be sure to secure the appropriate visa before travelling to Australia. Use the Visa Finder to explore your options.
• Ensure all details are correct and provide all required documents when you apply. An incomplete or incorrect application can delay your visa.
• Submitting multiple applications at the same time can slow the process. For visitor visas, submit one application per person, including children. 
• Questions? The Australian Government's Global Service Centre can help.

Australian Visa Information

Unless you are an Australian citizen, you will need a valid Australian visa to enter the country. New Zealand passport holders can apply for a visa upon arrival in the country. All other passport holders, regardless of age, must apply for a visa before leaving home. You can apply for a range of Australian visa types, including tourist visas and working holiday visas, via the ETA app or on the  Department of Home Affairs website.

There are different Australian visa types available for travellers to Australia. Knowing which Australian visa to apply for depends on the length of your stay, your passport and the purpose of your visit. You’ll also need to meet certain financial and medical requirements, be outside of Australia when applying and maintain health insurance for the duration of your stay. 

Electronic Travel Authority visa  (subclass 601) This visa allows you to visit Australia as many times as you want, for up to a year, and stay for three months each visit. This visa is available to passport holders from a number of countries and regions, who live outside Australia. A step-by-step guide on how to apply is  here .

All ETA-eligible passport holders must apply for an ETA using the Australian ETA app. Agents can assist you in the application process, but you must be physically present as a live facial image is required.

eVisitor  (subclass 651) This is a free visa for multiple visits to Australia for tourism or business purposes for up to three months at a time within a 12-month period. This visa is available to passport holders from a number of European countries and it cannot be extended.

Visitor visa  (subclass 600) The Visitor visa allows you to visit Australia, either for tourism or business purposes. It is open to all nationalities. Generally, a period of stay of up to three months is granted, but up to 12 months may be granted in certain circumstances. Applicants will have to pay a fee to submit their application.

The application process may differ depending on which visa you need.

You can only apply for the  Electronic Travel Authority visa  (subclass 601) through the Australian ETA app. A step-by-step guide on how to apply is located  here .

For other visas, you can apply online by creating an ImmiAccount and completing the application process. Be sure to submit your application well in advance of your travel date to allow enough time for processing. You may be asked to provide further supporting information. You will be notified in writing if your tourist visa is approved and it will be digitally linked to your passport. For more information on different visa types, and Australian visa requirements including how to apply for an Australian visa, visit the  Department of Home Affairs  website.

If you are already in Australia and hold a valid Electronic Travel Authority visa (subclass 601) you can extend your stay by applying for another visa, such as a Visitor visa (subclass 600). An eVisitor (subclass 651) cannot be extended.

See the Department of Home Affairs website for details.

Working Holiday Visas

Australia's Working Holiday Maker program allows visitors aged under 30 (or 35 in certain cases) who hold a passport from a participating country to travel and work in Australia. Working holiday visas are valid for one year, or up to three years if you meet certain conditions.

Find out more about working holiday visas here .

*Australian visa regulations (including visa application charges) change from time to time. The information provided here is valid at the time of publication, but visitors should check this information is still current by visiting the Australian Department of Home Affairs .

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Evidence of the applicant's previous travel - Australia Forum

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Evidence of the applicant's previous travel

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and dint have any as i haven't travelled earlier. What should i do

19 replies to this topic

They are talking about your previous travel history to anywhere.

But if you have no travel history, just ignore it. Your passport number will have your travel history on it if you have any. They are just checking that your travel history doesn’t raise and red flags such as if you’ve travelled to the Middle East or something.

What nationality is your passport though? Do you qualify for an ETA 601 or an eVisitor 651? The 600 is generally for longer visits greater than 3 months, can take longer to process and often has more scrutiny than a visa for a shorter visit for tourism purposes. The official website for visas is below and is the best place to start your visa search.

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-finder

If you have never travelled before then you can ignore this section.

Thanks for your reply.That was helpful.

Didn't check those visvas . ..will go through.

If you just tell us the nationality of your passport, we can tell you the best and cheapest option.

OP just let me know they have an Indian passport so the 600 is their only option.

Get your visa Sai before you book your travel.

Thanks mate for the reply. It was helpful

I don't think so you won't be able to submit the application. This is in the section required not recommended they're looking for something I don't know what but I cannot submit this application because it's coming up as incomplete just saying.

@ Anthony S, if you have never travelled previously, have you tried typing "Have never travelled outside [your home country] before" ?

Sometimes with that kind of form which requires a field to be filled in it will accept whatever you type into the field.

My brother have similar issue ( Nigeria)

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Tuesday, 30 Jan 2024

• Documentation

Student Visa Extension Australia: A Guide for Foreign Students

Need more time to finish your current course, or are you looking to enroll in a new one? You must apply for a Student visa extension in Australia before your existing student visa expires.

The process is pretty straightforward and follows similar steps to when you applied for your initial Student visa 500 . Read further to learn the steps as well as the latest updates on student visas.

Latest updates on Australian student visas

Following the launch of the Migration Strategy for 2024, Australia is rolling out new rules for student visas. The changes will cover the following key points:

• A genuine student test will replace the existing, genuine temporary entrant. This aims to identify students genuinely committed to studying in Australia and refuse those using the student visa route primarily to seek work or stay in Australia indefinitely.
• The required IELTS test (or equivalent) score for student visas will be raised from 5.5 to 6.0 (4.5 to 5.0 for those taking an English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students or ELICOS)
• Student visa processing times will be determined based on the education provider’s risk levels . Institutions with lower risk levels will be given higher priority in visa processing.

The specific date for these changes isn’t defined and could take effect immediately upon the department’s announcement.. Existing visa policies still apply.

Stay connected to stay on top of the latest Australian immigration news and updates.

Reasons to apply for a student visa extension

If you’re in one of the following situations, you can apply for a student visa 500 extension:

• Failed subjects
• Reduced study load
• Personal circumstances (health, family emergencies, etc.)
• You’re enrolling in a new course of study.
• The duration of your course has been extended, and your visa will expire before completion.
• You’ve submitted your graduate research thesis, but your current student visa will expire before marking is completed.
• Your graduate research application has been extended.

How to apply for a student visa extension in Australia?

Step 1: secure new coe.

Applying for a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) is usually done through your education provider’s online portals, although in some cases, you might need to speak directly with the designated university personnel.

To avoid any confusion, you can seek guidance from a trusted migration agency . They’ll give you the right information on how to reach your education provider and ensure you process your CoE within the necessary timeframes.

Step 2: Renew OSHC policy

Most likely, the length of your current Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) won’t cover your extended stay. You must renew your OSHC policy with your existing provider or a new one, making sure it aligns with the length of your course.

You can also let your school or university handle the OSHC renewal for you.

If you’re already in Australia, make sure there are no gap months between your new OSHC and your previous health insurance. If outside Australia, make sure your OSHC starts as soon as you arrive in Australia, not when the course starts.

Step 3: Secure other necessary documents

Apart from the CoE and OSHC, you must gather other necessary documents, which include the following:

• A certified copy of your birth certificate
• National identity card
• Driver’s license
• Employment history (e.g. resume or CV), if applicable
• Marriage certificate, if applicable
• Proof of financial capacity, including proof of access to these funds

H4: Proof of Financial Capacity

You must show that you can cover your living costs and expenses while you’re studying in Australia. This includes:

• travel costs
• tuition fees
• living expenses for you and your family members for at least 12 months
• school costs for any school-aged dependents.

Acceptable funding sources include:

• Your partner’s or parents’ annual income. Make sure to include information like their employment history, annual income, and/or assets.
• Government loans and scholarships
• Corporate sponsorships

H4: Proof of Access to Funds

If a partner, parent, or another person or entity is funding your studies in Australia, make sure to show proof that you have genuine access to those funds.

You can present past records of financial support, money deposits or transfers, and so on.

Step 4: Apply for student visa via ImmiAccount

Log in to your ImmiAccount and start a new student visa application.

Fill out the application form completely and upload all supporting documents as specified by the ImmiAccount system.

As part of the student visa application, you must write a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement to show that your true intention for going to Australia is solely to study and that you plan to return home once your studies are complete.

After lodging your application, check for any notifications regarding additional checks, such as biometrics and health exams. Specific instructions will be provided by the ImmiAccount system for your reference.

H4: Student visa extension Australia fee

The base application fee is AUD710.00.

This does not include charges for family members who will be applying with you, as well as costs for the necessary health and character checks.

Note: You may be eligible for a student visa fee waiver if you had a student visa on or after February 1, 2020 and weren’t able to finish your course on time because of the impacts of COVID-19.

According to the department, the fee waiver is only applicable for:

• postponement or leave of absence due to travel restrictions
• postponement due to education provider being unable to deliver the course
• being forced to switch to part-time study because the education provider did not offer or cancel the requisite courses
• being unable to complete the practical component of your course (provider initiated)

To apply, fill out and attach a completed Form 1545 COVID-19 Impacted Student from your education provider.

H4: Student visa extension Australia processing time

Processing times for student visas range from 2 to 12 weeks.

Note that this is just an estimate based on the number of visas previously approved by the Department of Home Affairs. While there is no fixed duration, make sure you complete your application thoroughly and accurately to minimise potential delays.

Step 5: Check email for visa application updates

Regularly check your email for any updates from the Department of Home Affairs regarding the approval of your student visa application.

Once granted, you can confirm your visa status by doing a quick VEVO check . With VEVO, you can see details such as the expiration date of your visa and specific visa conditions you must always follow.

When to apply for an Australia student visa extension?

Apply for your new student visa about 6 to 9 weeks before your current visa expires.

If you are applying inside Australia, you’ll receive a bridging visa (either bridging visa A or B) for you to legally stay in Australia in case your current visa expires and your student visa extension is still processed.

However, if you’re applying offshore, you can only enter the country once you’re student visa is approved.

Apply for a student visa today!

TL;DR Australia student visa extension checklist

Make sure to collect all these student visa extension Australia requirements:

• New Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE)
• Extended Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement, including employment history and educational background
• Identity documents, including birth certificate, national ID, driver’s license
• Proof of financial capacity to fund your (and your family’s) stay in Australia
• Proof of genuine access to funding

Explore other visa options to extend your stay in Australia

There could be other visa pathways more suitable for your situation than a student visa extension. Whether it’s a family visa , partner visa , or skilled visa , KBA Global can help you understand the best choice for your specific case.

Schedule a free consultation today to find out which visa is the right fit for you.

Disclaimer: The above information is a general guide and not professional immigration advice. Be aware that immigration laws and regulations can change swiftly, potentially rendering some or all of the information outdated. Thus, before using the information above, we recommend checking the current laws with assistance from a migration agent or the Department of Home Affairs website.

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Australia introduces new rules for international students and temporary graduate visa

A ustralia is a popular study-abroad location among international students. Recently, the Australian government has made many changes to the rules governing foreign education and the settlement of immigrants in the country.

The Australian Government’s Migration Strategy was released on December 11, 2023. The Strategy is designed to further strengthen the integrity and quality of Australia’s international education programs, better protect international students and support graduates to achieve their career goals.

Australia New Rules for International Students 2024

New Financial Capacity Requirement

From May 10, 2024, the financial requirement that applies to Student and Student Guardian visas will be set at Australian dollars 29,710 ($19,576)for an individual student. The new financial requirement applies to any visas lodged on or after May 10, 2024. The savings requirements demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your airfare, course fees, and living expenses throughout your stay. This is to lower your chances of experiencing financial difficulties while studying.

TOEFL iBT Reinstated for Visa

TOEFL iBT is again a valid test for student visa purposes and is accepted by all Australian universities. However, tests taken between 26 July 2023, and 4 May 2024, are not valid. Tests taken before 26 July 2023, remain valid for two years. This significant development provides opportunities for anyone looking to study, work, or relocate to Australia by allowing them to demonstrate their English competence through the TOEFL iBT test.

New Genuine Student (GS) requirement

From March 23, 2024, the new Genuine Student (GS) requirement has replaced the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement with a list of targeted questions. The GS requirement is a key part of the student visa application procedure. The new GS requirement replaces the prior 300-word statement with a series of focused questions. These questions tell visa decision-makers about the student and their reasons for seeking to study in Australia.

New English Language Requirements

When submitting their visa application, international students hoping to study in Australia will have to show proof of their fluency in the English language. From 23 March 2024, new English language requirements apply to all Student Visa and Temporary Graduate Visa applications.

Upcoming Changes To Studying in Australia

Temporary Graduate Visa Length to be Reduced

The length of post-study work visas will change. However, Australia’s Temporary Graduate visa will still give you time to gain valuable work experience and demonstrate your skills to Australian employers.

If you gain work in a skilled job during your post-study work period, you may be eligible to apply for the new 4-year Skills in Demand visa. This visa provides a clearer pathway to permanent residency. Initial stay periods for Indian nationals will not change, as agreed in the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement. This change is intended to come into effect from 1 July 2024.

New Age Limit for Temporary Graduate visa

The maximum eligible age for Temporary Graduate visa applicants will be reduced to 35 years of age or under. This change is intended to come into effect from 1 July 2024.

'So much uncertainty': International student numbers capped amid stricter visa regulations

The government has just unveiled a series of actions aimed at reducing migration levels, one of which includes implementing restrictions on the enrolment of international students. (Representative image) Source: AFP / TORSTEN BLACKWOOD/AFP via Getty Images

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Other ways to listen, numbers of international students entering australia will be capped from next year as the government aims to cut migration rates. this follows stricter regulations announced recently such as higher financial criteria and english proficiency standards..

Current strategy and tougher visa rules

'Rapid policy change affects well-being'

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Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa

Find out about the Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa including eligibility and length of stay.

Main content

This visa allows you to.

in Australia if you are an eligible international student who has graduated from an Australian CRICOS registered course

group_add Include family

in your application including your partner, child or partner’s child. They must meet health and character visa requirements.

unrestricted hours in any sector

Eligibility

To be eligible for a Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa you must: 

• be under 50 years of age, 
• have held a Student (subclass 500) visa in the last six months, 
• provide evidence you have applied for an AFP check when you apply, and  
• provide evidence of the required level of English language with the application. 

The Temporary Graduate visa in the Post-Study Work stream is for students have recently graduated with a degree from an Australian education provider.  

The Temporary Graduate visa in the Graduate Work stream is for students who have recently graduated from an Australian provider with skills and qualifications relevant to specific occupations. For this stream, you need to nominate an occupation from the skilled occupations list . You will also need to provide evidence you have applied for (or already obtained) a skills assessment for the nominated occupation.  

Length of stay and work rights 

The length of your stay on a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) varies depending on the course you studied and the visa stream you apply for:  

• Temporary Graduate visa (Post-Study Work stream) holders can usually stay in Australia for two to four years, depending on your study level and qualification.
• Graduates with select degrees are eligible for an additional two years (see below for more information).            
• A Temporary Graduate visa (Graduate Work stream) will usually allow you to stay and work in Australia for up to 18 months. This has temporarily increased to 24 months.  
• Hong Kong or British National Overseas passport holders on their first Temporary Graduate visa (Post-study Work and Graduate Work streams) may stay in Australia for five years.   

Post-study work rights extensions 

From 1 July 2023, graduates with a select degree on the Department of Education’s Eligible Qualifications List (EQL) will be eligible for an additional two years on their Post-Study Work stream visa: 

• Four years for Bachelor degree graduates, up from two years previously. 
• Five years for Master degree graduates, up from three years previously. 
• Six years for Doctoral graduates, up from four years previously. 

These extensions are in addition to the existing additional one to two years of work rights for eligible students who study, live and work in  regional areas  in Australia. 

*Changes are coming in 2024. Find out more. 

Eligible visa holders 

Graduates who already hold a Temporary Graduate visa in the Post-Study Work stream and who have completed an eligible degree can apply for a two-year extension using ImmiAcocunt with no application fee. 

Graduates with an eligible degree who apply for a Temporary Graduate visa in the Post-Study Work stream on or after 1 July 2023 will be granted an additional two years. 

Applicants with an eligible degree who have studied, lived and worked in a regional area in Australia may apply for an extension in the Second Post-Study Work stream .  

Extension limits 

Applicants with an eligible degree can only be granted the additional two-year extension once . No further applications for extension are possible and further applications for an extension will be invalid. 

Arrangements for other Temporary Graduate visa holders 

Temporary Graduate visa holders who are working in Australia or have an offer of employment in Australia may be eligible for a COVID-19 Pandemic Event (subclass 408) visa with a 2-year stay period, if: 

• your Temporary Graduate visa expired or will expire between 1 September 2022 and 1 July 2023, or 
• you held a Temporary Graduate visa in Australia throughout the pandemic period (and are not eligible for the Replacement stream below). 

Please evaluate your options carefully. If you are granted a COVID-19 Pandemic Event (subclass 408) visa, you will not be eligible to apply for an extended Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485).  

For a Pandemic Event visa, you must apply 90 days before your TGV expires, or 28 days after your TGV expires to be eligible.  

How to apply 

Visit the Home Affairs website for a step-by-step guide on how to apply online using ImmiAccount.  

Replacement visas due to COVID-19 

Current and former Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa holders who lost time in Australia due to COVID-19 international travel restrictions can apply for a replacement visa .  

To be eligible, you must have held a Temporary Graduate visa that was granted before 15 December 2021 and in effect on or after 1 February 2020, and have lost time on your visa because of Australia’s COVID-19 travel restrictions. Please check your eligibility and learn more about this visa at the Department of Home Affairs website .  

Discover more

Bringing your family.

Read about the requirements for bringing family members on a dependent’s visa and how to plan accordingly.

How to apply for your visa

Find out how to apply for a Student visa (subclass 500) for Australia, with this helpful step-by-step guide.

Language testing organisations

Find out which English language tests to use for your student visa application.

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