The robust economy, globally recognized degrees, and post-study work opportunities make studying in Australia a preferred choice for international students and help boost their careers. Australian universities are research-oriented institutions that provide students with opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research. International students pursuing advanced degrees or in STEM benefit from research activities.
International students can study at Australia’s top-ranking universities. These universities emphasize practical learning through internships, work-integrated learning, and industry connections. Additionally, Australia's multicultural society helps international students assimilate easily.
Australia focus on experiential learning and internships prepares students for a competitive workforce. The post-study work options allow international students to gain Australian work experience. Australian universities offer practical learning with industry connections, giving a competitive edge to students in Australia. Australia's thriving job market, especially in IT, engineering, and healthcare, offers multiple job opportunities for graduates. There are over 328,900 job opportunities in Australia.
International students in Australia can also apply for permanent residency after fulfilling the eligibility requirements to gain a long-term residency there.
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Australia issues the Student Visa (Subclass 500), but the visa applies across a range of study pathways. Depending on your course, duration, and study plan, the visa may be used for the following categories:
*Looking for guidance with Australia immigration? Y-Axis is here to guide you with the process.
Detailed information about the validity of the subclass 500 student visa is given in the table below.
| Course Duration | Australia Student Visa Validity |
| More than 10 months and ending in November- December | The Australian student visa is valid for approximately 3 months after your study program is completed |
| More than 10 months and ending between January- October | The Australian student visa is valid for an additional two months after completing your study program. |
| Below 10 months | The student visa of Australia is valid for one month after completing the study program. |
Australia primarily has two intakes per year.
There are a few Australian universities with multiple intakes. They accept students in September and November. Hence, you are advised to start your admission process six months prior to the application deadline.
| Higher Study Options | Duration | Intake Months | Deadline to Apply |
| Bachelors | 3 to 4 Years | February, July (Major), and November (Minor) | 4-6 months before the intake month |
| Master's (MS/MBA) | 1.5 to 2 Years | February, July (Major), and November (Minor) |
There are several benefits of studying in Australia. Some of the benefits are given below:
Other benefits for international students in Australia are given below:
| Study Type | Part-time work | Post-study work permit | Can dependents work full-time? | Is schooling free for dependents' children | PR option available for post-study and work |
| Bachelors | 20 hours per week | 2 Years | Yes | No | Yes |
| Masters (MS/MBA) | 20 hours per week | 3 Years | Yes | Yes |
You can apply for a post-study work permit in Australia, which is valid for up to four years. The post-study work permit is a pathway to Australia PR.
Australia has the top-ranking universities in the world. You can choose from a broad range of study programs in diverse fields.
Detailed information about the top universities in Australia is given below.
| QS Ranking | University | Location |
| 13 | The University of Melbourne | Parkville, Australia |
| 18 | The University of Sydney | Sydney, Australia |
| 19 | The University of New South Wales (UNSW Sydney) | Sydney, Australia |
| 30 | Australian National University (ANU) | Canberra, Australia |
| 37 | Monash University | Melbourne, Australia |
| 40 | The University of Queensland | Brisbane City, Australia |
| 77 | The University of Western Australia | Perth, Australia |
| 82 | The University of Adelaide | Adelaide, Australia |
| 88 | University of Technology Sydney | Haymarket, Australia |
| 123 | RMIT University | Melbourne, Australia |
Understanding the financial requirements of studying in Australia is an essential step in preparing for your academic journey. Costs vary significantly depending on the program type, provider, and city of residence. Major metropolitan areas such as Sydney and Melbourne generally have higher living expenses, while regional centres may offer more affordable options. The table below provides indicative estimates to assist in budgeting. Students are advised to review current fee schedules with their chosen provider and use official cost calculators such as those provided by Study Australia.
Detailed information about indicative costs by Australian study pathway is given below:
| Type | Higher Education / VET | ELICOS (Language Programs) | Short Courses (≤ 3 months) |
| Tuition | Undergraduate: approx. AUD 25,000–45,000/year; Postgraduate: approx. AUD 28,000–50,000/year (depending on field and institution) | Typically AUD 300–500 per week, provider-dependent | Varies by institution; generally pro-rated based on program duration |
| Living Expenses | Higher in major cities; lower in regional areas (housing, transport, food, utilities) | Similar cost patterns as higher education | Calculated on a pro-rata basis according to stay length |
| Other Costs | Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), study materials, equipment, laboratory fees | Materials, enrolment charges, OSHC (if applying under subclass 500) | Enrolment fees and study materials |
The popular universities and study programs are given in the table below.
| Universities | Programs |
| Australian National University | Bachelors, Masters, MBA, Btech |
| Monash University | Bachelors, Btech, Masters, MBA |
| University of Adelaide | Bachelors, Btech, Masters |
| University of Melbourne | Bachelors, Btech, Masters |
| University of New South Wales | Bachelors, Btech, Masters |
| University of Queensland: | Bachelors, Masters, MBA |
| University of Sydney | Bachelors, Btech, Masters |
| University of Technology Sydney | Masters, MBA |
| University of Western Australia | Bachelors, Btech, Masters, MBA |
| University of Wollongong | Masters, MBA |
| Australian Graduate School of Management | MBA |
| RMIT University | Btech |
| Macquarie University | MBA |
| Melbourne Business School | MBA |
| University of South Australia | MBA |
Multiple scholarships, grants, and other financial aid are available to international students in Australia. Some are offered by the Government, education providers, and private and public organizations.
Detailed information about the scholarship for international students in Australia is given below.
| Scholarship | Description |
| The Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS) | The scholarship offers government-funded grants to international students who demonstrate leadership qualities. The program is formulated to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to contribute to their home country’s development after graduation. |
| Australia for ASEAN scholarships | The Australian Government offers this scholarship to international students from ASEAN member states and Timor-Leste. It allows international students to pursue a Postgraduate degree and make an impact in any of the four priority areas of the ASEAN Outlook. |
| Australian Government Research Training Program (RTP) | This scholarship supports students, irrespective of their country of origin, in pursuing research doctorate and master's programs. |
| The Quad Fellowship (STEM) | This scholarship is a joint initiative of the governments of Australia, Japan, India, and the United States. It is designed to strengthen ties among the future scientists and technologists. |
Graduates of Australian institutions have access to post-study visa options that allow them to gain valuable work experience and build eligibility for permanent residency (PR). The Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) is the primary pathway, with additional streams and PR options available depending on qualifications, skills, and employment.
Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
Removal of the Extra Two-Year Extension
Permanent Residency Pathways
The eligibility conditions for the Australia student visa are given below. You must:
The documents required to apply for the Australia student visa is given below. You must provide:
Detailed information about the Australian student visa fees is given below.
| Visa subclass | Base application charge | Additional applicant charge | Additional applicant charge under 18 | Subsequent temporary application charge |
| Student visa (subclass 500) | AUD 1,600 | AUD 1,190 | AUD 390 | AUD 700 |
| Student visa (subclass 500) (subsequent entrant) | AUD 1,600 | AUD 1,190 | AUD 390 | AUD 700 |
| Student visa (subclass 500) – Foreign Affairs or Defence sector | NA | NA | NA | NA |
| Student visa (subclass 500) – Postgraduate research sector | AUD 1,600 | NA | NA | NA |
| Student Guardian (subclass 590) | AUD 1,600 | NA | NA | AUD 700 |
Detailed information about the funds required to study in Australia is given below.
| Type | Required Funds | |
| Primary applicant | AUD 29,710 | |
| Spouse or de facto partner of the Student primary applicant | AUD 10,394 | |
| Dependent child | AUD 4,449 | |
| Annual academic fee | AUD 13,502 | |
| Yearly personal income without family members | AUD 87,856 | |
| Yearly personal income with family members | AUD 102,500 |
Fee for Australian accredited engineering qualification assessment
| Type | Fee (in AUD) | |
| Australian Engineering Qualification Assessment | 335.5 | |
| Australian engineering qualification assessment plus relevant skilled employment assessment | 792 | |
| Australian engineering qualification assessment plus overseas engineering PhD assessment | 627 | |
| Australian engineering qualification assessment plus relevant skilled employment assessment and overseas engineering PhD assessment | 1,072.50 | |
Fee for Competency Demonstration Report (CDR) assessment
| Type | Fee (in AUD) |
| Standard competency demonstration report | 1001 |
| Competency demonstration report plus relevant skilled employment assessment | 1452 |
| Competency demonstration report plus overseas engineering PhD assessment | 1281 |
| Competency demonstration report plus relevant skilled employment assessment plus overseas engineering PhD assessment | 1732 |
The processing of an Australian Student Visa (subclass 500) involves several structured steps, from course selection to arrival in Australia. While durations vary depending on the applicant’s country of residence, intake period, and individual circumstances, the following table provides indicative timeframes to help students plan effectively. Applicants should always refer to the latest guidance from the Department of Home Affairs before applying.
Detailed information about the indicative visa timeline and process is given below:
| Step | Typical Duration | What You Do |
| Choose course/provider | 1–3 weeks | Shortlist CRICOS-listed providers; confirm Genuine Student (GS) criteria and financial fit |
| Offer & Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) | 2–8+ weeks | Apply, receive offer, satisfy GS requirements, and pay deposit to obtain CoE |
| Document preparation & funds | 1–3 weeks | Gather passport, proof of financial capacity, English results, and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) |
| Lodge subclass 500 application | 1–2 weeks | Complete online forms, upload documents, pay visa and biometrics fees (if required) |
| Biometrics & medicals | 1–2 weeks | Attend appointments if requested |
| Assessment | Several weeks to a few months | Case officer reviews application; may issue a Section 56 request for more information |
| Decision & travel arrangements | ~1–2 weeks (post-approval) | Book flights, secure accommodation, and arrange insurance |
The step-by-step procedure to apply for an Australian student visa is given below.
Step 1: Evaluate your eligibility for the Australia student visa.
Step 2: Arrange the required documents for the student visa application.
Step 3: Submit the duly filled-out Australia student visa application form.
Step 4: Obtain your Australian student visa.
Step 5: Fly to Australia for studies.
Australia has introduced several significant reforms to its international education framework, aimed at strengthening integrity, improving student outcomes, and managing overall enrolments. Prospective students should carefully review the following updates before preparing their visa application.
Genuine Student (GS) Replaces GTE
Since 23 March 2024, the Genuine Student (GS) requirement has replaced the former Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) test. The new approach places greater emphasis on a student’s academic intent and integrity, while also allowing applicants to express longer-term aspirations, including pathways to permanent residency.
Increased Financial Capacity Requirements
In 2024, the government raised the minimum financial evidence required for international students. Applicants must now demonstrate higher savings thresholds to prove their ability to cover tuition, living costs, and other essential expenses. It is critical to verify the latest requirements before lodging an application.
Work Hour Restrictions
Student visa holders are permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods, with more generous allowances for research master’s and doctoral candidates. These limits are designed to balance study commitments with part-time employment.
Updated English Language Settings
On 7 August 2025, new English proficiency settings were introduced for subclass 500 visa applicants. Students must ensure they meet the updated test score requirements using approved examinations before applying.
Intake Management and National Caps
The government has signalled the use of national enrolment allocations and intake caps, with adjustments expected in 2025 and beyond. These measures are intended to align international student numbers with housing capacity, labour market needs, and sector quality. Prospective applicants should monitor annual policy announcements to understand how caps may affect their institution or program.
Y-Axis is the right mentor to guide you through the process of studying in Australia. We help you with:
For an Australian student visa, you must provide proof of having adequate funds to support yourself while pursuing your study program in Australia. These funds cover living expenses, academic fees, and travel costs. You must have at least AUD 29,710 to support yourself for one year.
Detailed information about the funds required for an Australian student visa is given in the table below.
| Type | Fees (in AUD) |
| Primary applicant | 29,710 |
| Spouse/De Facto Partner | 10,394 |
| Dependent Child | 3,670 |
You can demonstrate that you have the required funds through the documents given below. You must have:
The English language tests acceptable for an Australian student visa are given below.
Yes, there are multiple scholarships available for international students in Australia. These include government scholarships and university-specific grants.
The government-funded scholarships for international students in Australia are given below.
The University-Specific scholarships are given below. You can apply for.
Once you are accepted into a course, the college will send you an offer letter. You will have to accept the offer in writing and pay the tuition fees. A Confirmation of Enrolment, or CoE, will be sent to you. This document is essential to process your visa application.
A GTE or Genuine Temporary Entrant statement is a personal declaration by an international student required to study in Australia. It demonstrates that the applicant wants to solely study in Australia and not use the student visa to apply for Australia PR. The statement must be less than 300 words and should address the applicant's personal circumstances and why they want to study in Australia.
The Australian Department of Home Affairs assesses the GTE requirement to determine the intention of the international student.
The GTE statement includes:
The detailed procedure for international students applying for scholarships in Australia is given below.
Step 1: Research the scholarships available for your field and university.
Step 2: Check if you are eligible for the selected scholarships.
Step 3: Arrange the required documents to apply for the scholarship.
Step 4: Submit the duly filled scholarship application.
Step 5: Receive the scholarship to study in Australia.
To study in Australia, as an international student, you must demonstrate that you have the required proficiency in the English language. You can demonstrate your English language skills by getting the required points on the standardized IELTS, Cambridge English, or PTE Academic tests. The minimum scores vary based on the visa type and study level.
Detailed information about the required scores for English language proficiency tests is given below.
| Type > | Score |
| IELTS (Academic) | Overall 6.0 |
| TOEFL iB | 79 or more |
| PTE Academic | At least 58 |
| Cambridge English (C1 Advanced) | At least 6.5 |
| Occupational English Test (OET) | A minimum of Grade B |
You must meet the health and character requirements for an Australian student visa to study in Australia. The requirements include qualifying for a health examination, obtaining OSHC or Overseas Student Health Cover, and demonstrating good character under a police clearance certificate and other background verification.
The health requirements include:
The character requirements include:
