Student Visa (subclass 500) Application Process

Step 1 – Accept Your Letter of Offer

Upon approval of your course application, you will receive a Letter of Offer from your chosen institution. This document outlines essential information including course details, fees, refund policies, and enrolment conditions. It is crucial to review these details thoroughly and only accept the offer if you are satisfied with all terms. Should you find discrepancies—such as unexpected tuition fees, unsatisfactory refund terms, or course information that does not align with your expectations—consider discussing your options before proceeding. At Professional Visa and Education Services, we provide a transparent breakdown of your course fees, clarify refund conditions, and ensure your offer aligns with your objectives. If you require alternatives, our team is prepared to guide you toward institutions that best suit your academic and financial goals, enabling you to accept your Letter of Offer with complete confidence.

Step 2 – Obtain Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

Once you accept your Letter of Offer and pay any required deposit, your institution will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). This official document is mandatory for your student visa application.

Step 3 – Provide Evidence of English Language Proficiency

Australian institutions typically require evidence of your English language ability. Accepted results are usually from recognised tests such as IELTS, which remains a leading choice among Australian universities. Many institutions also accept IELTS One Skill Retake, allowing you to retake only the specific skill you did not pass, thus saving time and minimising stress.

Step 4 – Meet the Genuine Student (GS) Requirement

As of March 23, 2024, the Genuine Student (GS) requirement has replaced the previous Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) standard. Instead of a written statement, you now respond to structured questions within your online visa application, with answers limited to 150 words each. The questions will address:

• Your current circumstances, including ties to family, community, employment, and financial situation
• Your reasons for choosing your course and institution in Australia
• How the chosen course contributes to your academic background and future career plans
• Any other relevant information supporting your application

Step 5 – Prepare Financial Evidence

Gather documentation to demonstrate your financial capacity. This includes the ability to cover tuition, living expenses (approximately AUD $29,710 per year), and travel costs. Bank statements, official loan documents, or evidence of sponsorship are commonly accepted forms of proof.

Step 6 – Secure Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

Having OSHC is mandatory for all international students. Ensure your health insurance remains valid for the entire duration of your stay in Australia.

Step 7 – Complete Health and Character Requirements

You may be required to undergo a health examination and provide background information. In some instances, a police clearance certificate may also be necessary.

Step 8 – Submit Your Application Online

With all documentation prepared, you can submit your student visa application through ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.

How to Strengthen Your Student Visa Application

To achieve a successful outcome, your application must meet the GS requirement, contain accurate and thorough supporting documents, and clearly connect your chosen course to your background and future plans. Even minor errors—such as insufficient explanations, unclear career objectives, or missing documentation—can impact the result.

Professional Visa and Education Services remains at the forefront of regulatory changes, offering up-to-date guidance on visa requirements. Our team will support you in aligning your course selection with your goals, ensuring your documentation is complete, and presenting a robust application that maximises your likelihood of approval.

Student visa 500 document checklist

To support your application for a Student Visa (subclass 500), you will need to prepare the following documentation:

1. Proof of Identity

• Passport copy (mandatory)
• Certified copy of birth certificate, national identity card, or driver’s licence (if applicable)

2. Course Enrolment

Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for every course you intend to study

3. Health Cover

Evidence of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) that covers the full duration of your stay

4. Genuine Student (GS) Requirement

• Comprehensive responses to GS questions in your visa application, supported by relevant documentation, such as:
• Proof of employment (payslips, employment contracts, or reference letters)
• Academic transcripts and graduation certificates from prior education
• Statement of purpose or course research outlining your reasons for course and provider selection
• Career plans, an up-to-date CV, or evidence of potential future employment
• Proof of financial and family ties (bank statements, property ownership documentation, family certificates)
• Any additional documents demonstrating your personal circumstances (e.g., community involvement, immigration history)

5. Financial Capacity

• Evidence demonstrating sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel, which may include:
• Bank statements or passbooks with recent transactions
• Loan approval letter from a recognised financial institution
• Proof of income (for yourself, your parents, or your spouse)
• A minimum of AUD 60,000 if applying alone
• A minimum of AUD 70,000 if accompanied by dependants

6. Family and Relationship Documents (if applicable)

• Marriage certificate, Family Book, or other relevant evidence of relationship
• Proof of dependants’ enrolment in school if children are accompanying you

Ensure your visa application is complete and accurate, as even minor errors or missing documents can lead to unnecessary delays or possible refusal. Our team at Professional Visa and Education Services can assist you in assembling and reviewing all required documents, helping to streamline your application process and minimise the risk of complications in your visa journey.