Student Visa Australia (Subclass 500) Guide 2026
Get comprehensive guidance from experts and turn your dream of obtaining Australia student visa into reality.
Australia remains one of the world's most desirable destinations for international students, offering world-class education, a high standard of living, and attractive post-study work opportunities. However, the path to obtaining the Subclass 500 Student Visa has become more complex and competitive in 2026 than it was before.
As a national effort to manage and reduce international student numbers, the Australian Government has implemented the National Planning Level (NPL), effectively acting as a cap. For 2026, this cap is set at 295,000 international student places, with allocations tiered across institutions based on quality and student support. This new policy uses provider-level allocations to manage intake, which means application processing would be prioritised based on the education providers. While some processes might be fast-tracked, others might face longer delays and higher scrutiny.
With the new rules for Australia Student Visa, securing your visa now relies more than ever on demonstrating a compelling case, which is best supported by the GS (Genuine Student) Statement. This comprehensive Student Visa Australia Guide 2026 will equip you with the precise framework needed to navigate these new constraints.
India Re-Classified to Evidence Level 3 under Australia's Simplified Student Visa Framework (SSVF)
Starting 8 January 2026, India has been re-classified to Evidence Level 3 under Australia’s Simplified Student Visa Framework. This change also applies to several other South Asian countries, including Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh, placing them in the highest-risk category for student visa processing. This out-of-cycle move by the Australian Department of Home Affairs is designed to manage emerging integrity risks while ensuring the system remains open for genuine students.
What does this mean for students applying from Level 3 countries?
The move to Evidence Level 3 means that the previous streamlined visa process is no longer available for applicants from these countries. Students must now provide comprehensive documentation upfront, and visa officials are authorised to conduct much deeper verification, which will lead to longer processing timelines.
Key changes you should prepare for:
- Higher Financial Evidence: You must now provide proof of funds for 12 months of living expenses (currently AUD 29,710), plus your tuition fees and travel costs. Bank statements will be manually verified, and officials typically look for a three-month history of these funds.
- Stricter English Requirements: Expect less flexibility regarding English language exemptions. You will likely need to provide formal test results (such as IELTS or PTE) at the time of application.
- Detailed Screening: There will be a much higher level of scrutiny regarding your academic transcripts and 'Genuine Student' responses.
- Direct Verification: Visa officers now have the authority to contact your bank, previous employers, and educational institutions directly to cross-check every detail of your application.
- Increased Timelines: Average processing times are expected to rise from the previous three weeks to between eight and ten weeks.
Because of these changes, it is essential to start your application much earlier than in previous years. If you are planning to study in Australia for the 2026 intakes, our AECC counsellors are available to help you navigate these new requirements and ensure your application is as strong as possible.
Major Types for Australia Students Visa
Australia issues various visas, but for those planning an educational journey, the process centres around the Student Visa (Subclass 500) and related post-study pathways. Here is a brief overview of the key visas relevant to international students:
| Visa Name | Visa Type | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Subclass 500 | Student Visa | Permits foreign nationals to enrol in full-time study at any level (schools, VET, higher education) in an Australian institution |
| Subclass 600 | Visitor Visa | Allows international visitors to study for a maximum of three months; used to take a 10-week English Intensive Language Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) |
| Subclass 590 | Student Guardian Visa | Allows a parent or legal guardian to accompany and provide care for a student visa holder who is under 18 years of age |
| Subclass 407 | Training Visa | For occupational training, professional development, or other workplace-based training not covered by the main student visa |
Australia Student Visa Fees & Costs Involved
Securing your Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) involves several compulsory financial components beyond the visa application charge (VAC). These include the first 12 months of living expenses in Australia, in addition to tuition and airfare. It is crucial to budget accurately, as demonstrating sufficient funds is a non-negotiable part of the visa application process.
Refer to the following mandatory expenses that international students must show to the Department of Home Affairs:
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost (in AUD) | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Application Charge (VAC) | AU $2,000 | The base fee for the primary applicant. Additional fees apply for accompanying family members |
| Minimum Annual Living Costs Required | AU $29,710 | Mandatory financial requirement to show the capability of supporting 1st year of living expenses |
| Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) | AU $600 - $1,000 per year | Must cover the entire duration of your planned stay in Australia |
| First Year’s Tuition Fee | Varies by course | Must show proof of payment or available funds for the first year |
| Return Airfare | Varies by origin | Funds for travel back from Australia must be included in your financial proof |
Applicants must demonstrate access to sufficient funds to cover the first 12 months of living expenses in Australia, in addition to tuition and airfare. These amounts were most recently adjusted in early 2024 to better reflect the true cost of living.
Student Visa Australia Requirements
Outlined below are the main prerequisites for students applying for the Subclass 500 Australian Student Visa for the 2026 intake.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for an Australian Student Visa Subclass 500, international applicants need to fulfil certain standards to prove their eligibility.
- Verification of Enrolment: Must be enrolled in a full-time study programme registered on the CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students)
- Health Insurance: Must have Overseas Student Health Coverage (OSHC) for the entire term of the visa
- Financial Capacity: Must have enough money to cover the first year's tuition, living expenses (at least AU $29,710), and return flights
- English Proficiency: Must provide a valid certificate of English language ability
- Character and Health: Must fulfil the required character and health standards
- Genuine Student (GS): Must satisfy the Genuine Student (GS) requirement, proving your primary intent is to study
Genuine Student (GS) Statement
To obtain an Australia student visa, applicants must prove their genuineness and sole intention to only study in the country and then return to their home countries with the help of a Genuine Student (GS) Statement. Applicants must not sound like potential immigrants who are only targeting to upgrade their skills to grab employment and extend their stay until they receive a PR.
The factors on which an applicant is judged for a GS are more or less the same as the GTE, viz.
- Students’ circumstances in their home country, including ties with family
- Immigration history across the globe
- Compliance with visa conditions and any other relevant matter
Earlier, this requirement was fulfilled with the help of a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) form, which has now been replaced by the GS.
English Proficiency
Applicants from non-English-speaking countries need one of the following tests to demonstrate their command of English proficiency.
| English Test | Minimum Overall Score (Common Requirement) |
|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 6.0 (or higher, with no band less than 5.5) |
| TOEFL iBT | 60 (or higher, depending on the course) |
| PTE Academic | 50 (or higher, depending on the course) |
| Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) | 169 (or higher, depending on the course) |
Please note that the required score can vary based on your education provider and course level.
Mandatory Documents Required
You must upload the following to your ImmiAccount at the time of visa application lodgement:
- Agent Forms (if applicable): Form 956 (Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your approved Australian educational institution
- Passport: A passport that is valid for at least six months after your course ends
- Language Proficiency: Proof of English ability (valid test scores)
- Genuine Student (GS) Submission: Your answers to the structured questions outlining your study plan and genuine intent
- Proof of Funds: Evidence of having enough money to pay for the first year's tuition fees in Australia, at least AU $29,710 for living expenses, and the return flight
- Health Insurance: Overseas Student Health Coverage (OSHC) policy document
- Transcripts: Certifications and academic credentials that attest to your educational background
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume: Required if you have gaps in study or relevant work experience
- Character and Health Documents: Police clearance certificates and health examination results (HAP ID required after lodgement)
- For Minors (Under 18): Verification of housing and welfare arrangements (CAAW form) or Form 157N if a student guardian is designated as a migration agent, or Form 956A (Appointment of a recipient of correspondence)
How to Apply for Australia Student Visa?
The step-by-step application process for the Australia Student Visa is given below:
Step 1: Apply to an Australian School
- Apply to and be accepted by a registered Australian education provider.
- Obtain from the organisation a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE).
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
- Evidence of English language proficiency (scores from the IELTS Academic, TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English tests)
- Proof of having enough money for living expenses, tuition fees, and a return flight
- For the term of the visa, Overseas Student Health Coverage (OSHC)
- A passport that will remain valid for at least six months after the course ends
- More supporting documents based on your situation
Step 3: Create an ImmiAccount
- Create an ImmiAccount online through the Department of Home Affairs.
Step 4: Subclass 500 Student Visa Application
- Complete the visa application online.
- The application fee for a visa is AU $2,000.
- Include all necessary documentation.
Step 5: Attend Biometrics Appointment (if required)
- Make an appointment to submit your biometric information (picture and fingerprints).
Step 6: Undergo Medical Examination
- Schedule a medical examination with a panel physician.
Step 7: Wait for Visa Processing
- Processing dates can vary, but they take 7-85 days.
- Your ImmiAccount lets you track your application.
Step 8: Receive Visa Outcome
- You can print your visa grant letter and receive an email notification once your application is granted.
- If you are rejected, you will be notified and given the reasons for the decision.
Student Visa Australia Processing Time
The following is a summary of Australia student visa (subclass 500) processing times and the variables that can affect the processing time:
Average Processing Times
Priority-Based Processing (Under Ministerial Direction No. 111). Processing times are now heavily influenced by your education provider's status under the NPL. The Department aims to commence processing applications based on the following priority levels:
- Priority 1 (High): Applications linked to providers under their allocation (or specific student cohorts)
Target Commencement: 1 to 4 weeks (7–28 days) of lodgement - Priority 2 (Standard): Applications linked to providers who have reached their allocation, and other standard applications
Target Commencement: 5 to 8 weeks (35–56 days) of lodgement
Factors Affecting Processing Times
- Time of Year: Longer wait times may result from high application numbers, which are common on popular intake periods in Australia and days preceding the start of the academic year.
- Education Provider in Australia: The provider’s status under the National Planning Level (NPL) is the primary determinant of processing priority. Additionally, applications from certain countries may still undergo longer integrity and security checks.
- Application Completeness: Missing documents or incomplete applications might cause a major delay in the process.
- Visa Category: Processing periods for student visas under the vocational, higher education and other categories may vary slightly.
To ensure enough time for processing, overseas students should still apply well in advance, approximately 3- 6 months before their planned start date.
Student Visa Australia Rejection Rate & Reasons
Recent years have witnessed a reasonably high success rate for the Australian Student Visa (subclass 500), with 85-90% of applications being approved. Still, there are several things about visa rejection that foreign students should be aware of. The following are some explanations for the denial of an Australian student visa:
- Inadequate Academic Qualifications: Failure to fulfil the required minimum marks for the selected programme may result in the denial of a visa.
- Concerns for GS Genuine Student: The applicant must persuade immigration officials that they truly want to study in Australia and will return home once their studies are over.
- Inadequate English Proficiency: A visa application may be denied if the necessary English test scores (IELTS Academic, TOEFL, or PTE Academic) are not met.
- Insufficient Financial Capability: Rejection may result from an inability to provide proof of sufficient funds for living expenses, return airfare, and tuition fees in Australia.
- Inaccurate or Lacking Documentation: Application documents that are incomplete or submitted incorrectly might cause delay or even outright rejection.
Through a thorough understanding of the prerequisites, application procedure, and possible obstacles, overseas students can more effectively navigate the Australian student visa system and fulfil their study abroad objectives.
Want to study in Australia but don’t know where to start? Contact AECC for personalised guidance regarding the application procedure, visa requirements and more. Take the first step towards studying in Australia by registering now.