Why Study in Australia? 

• More than 30 QS-ranking universities are in Australia
• Research-oriented study programs in diverse fields
• Inexpensive tuition fees
• Work opportunity while studying and post-study
• Over 328,900 job opportunities in Australia

Study in Australia to boost your career growth

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.

Want to study abroad? Let Y-Axis guide you with the process.

 

Types of Australian Study Permits

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:

• Higher Education & Vocational Studies: For full-time enrolment in bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, diploma, or vocational training at a CRICOS-registered institution.
• Shorter Courses: Programs of 3 months or less (e.g., summer schools or certificate courses) can often be undertaken on a Visitor Visa or Working Holiday Visa instead of the Subclass 500.
• ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses): For students joining English-language training programs at approved providers; often packaged with further academic study.
• Co-op & Work-Integrated Learning: If your program includes a mandatory internship or work placement, you must have approval for work rights as part of your visa.
• School Sector: International students can apply to study in Australian primary or secondary schools under the Subclass 500 visa.
• Postgraduate Research: Master’s by research and PhD students apply under the same Subclass 500 but enjoy extended work rights, often with no limit for research-related work.
• Pathway or Packaged Programs: Many students bundle courses (e.g., ELICOS + bachelor’s degree, or diploma + master’s) under one visa, ensuring a seamless transition.

*Looking for guidance with Australia immigration? Y-Axis is here to guide you with the process.

Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500) Validity 

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.

Intakes in Australia

Australia primarily has two intakes per year.

• Intake 1: It commences in February
• Intake 2: It commences in July.

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)

Benefits of studying in Australia

There are several benefits of studying in Australia. Some of the benefits are given below:

• Scholarship for international students
• Student-friendly cities in Australia
• Post-study work visa for Australian international students
• Multicultural and vibrant student life
• Easy and inexpensive cost of living
• No language barrier

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.

Top Universities in Australia

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

Cost of Living and Fee Estimates for International Students in 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

Australian Universities and Programs

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

Scholarships in Australia for International Students

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.

Post-Graduation Pathways for International Students in Australia

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)

• From 1 July 2024, the 485 visa streams were realigned, and validity now depends on the level of qualification and the chosen stream.
• The visa provides an opportunity for graduates to remain in Australia, gain work experience, and prepare for skilled migration pathways.
• Applicants are encouraged to plan early, particularly with regard to skills assessments, employment opportunities, and long-term settlement goals.

Removal of the Extra Two-Year Extension

• As of mid-2024, the temporary two-year extension for select fields of study was removed.
• Students must now rely on the standard duration offered by their eligible qualification stream under the subclass 485 visa.

Permanent Residency Pathways

• Points-tested visas (Subclass 189/190): Based on skills, qualifications, work experience, and state/territory nomination.
• Employer-sponsored visas: For graduates securing employment with approved Australian employers.
• Regional migration routes: Designed to attract and retain talent in Australia’s regional areas, offering faster or priority PR pathways.
• Australian work experience gained on a 485 visa significantly strengthens eligibility for all of these permanent residency routes.

Eligibility for an Australia student visa

The eligibility conditions for the Australia student visa are given below. You must:

• Have an enrollment in an educational institute in Australia.
• Have required English language skills.
• Adequate funds to sponsor yourself during your study program in Australia.
• The required educational qualification is for the Australian study program you have applied for.

Requirements for an Australia student visa

The documents required to apply for the Australia student visa is given below. You must provide:

• A valid passport
• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a valid learning institute in Australia
• Written Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE)
• Past academic transcripts
• Proof of having the required scores in the English language proficiency test
• Proof of sufficient funds to support your stay in Australia
• A valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
• Positive health reports
• Character certificate
• Passport-sized photographs taken recently
• A Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation and Welfare (CAAW) letter if you are under 18 years old.

Australian student visa fees

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

Funds required to study in Australia

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

Processing time for Australia Student Visa

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

How to apply for an Australia Student Visa?

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. 

Policy Updates for Australia’s Student Visa

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.

How can Y-Axis help you?

Y-Axis is the right mentor to guide you through the process of studying in Australia. We  help you with:

• Free Counselling: Free professional counseling is available to help you make an informed decision on choosing the right study program and university in Australia.
• Campus Ready Program is an initiative by Y-Axis. It guides students during and after their study program.  
• Coaching services help you ace the IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL tests. 
• Avail expert counseling and guidance at every step of the Australia student visa application process.
• Course Recommendation: Get comprehensive guidance with Y-Path for a prosperous future.