Australia welcomes Indian students for degrees, vocational courses and English programs. The Student visa (subclass 500) covers all of these, and lets you stay for the length of your course plus a short period afterwards.
The Australian Department of Home Affairs handles applications entirely online. Assessment focuses heavily on whether you are a genuine student, so your written statements and documents need to tell a clear and consistent story.
Who needs the subclass 500 visa?
Any Indian citizen aged six or older who wants to study a registered full-time course in Australia needs this visa. Your course must be listed on the official CRICOS register. Short courses of up to three months may be possible on a visitor visa, but they do not lead to the same rights.
Step-by-step process
- Apply to a CRICOS-registered provider and accept your offer.
- Pay the tuition deposit and purchase OSHC for the full visa period.
- Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
- Create an ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.
- Complete the online application, including answers to the Genuine Student questions.
- Upload documents and pay the visa application charge.
- Attend biometrics and a health examination if requested.
- Wait for the decision and check your visa conditions carefully before travelling.
Documents you need
- Valid passport.
- Confirmation of Enrolment for each course.
- OSHC policy details.
- English test results such as IELTS, PTE or TOEFL, where required.
- Proof of funds for tuition, living costs and travel.
- Academic transcripts and work experience letters.
- Statements and evidence supporting the Genuine Student requirement.
- Police certificate, if requested.
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The Genuine Student requirement
The GS requirement replaced the older Genuine Temporary Entrant test. You answer targeted questions in the application about your current situation, the course you chose, why you chose Australia and this provider, and how the course benefits your future. Answers should be specific and backed by evidence, such as employment letters, academic records and research into your institution.
Officers look closely at gaps in study, unusual course changes and programs that seem unrelated to your background. Explain these honestly rather than hoping they will not be noticed.
Funds and finances
You must show you have genuine access to enough money for tuition, living costs and travel for yourself and any family members. The required living cost figure is set by the government and updated periodically, so check the current amount on the Home Affairs website. Funds can come from savings, education loans, scholarships or family sponsors with clear income evidence.
OSHC
Overseas Student Health Cover is a condition of your visa. You must hold it before applying and keep it for your whole stay. Many universities arrange it for you, but you can also buy it from an approved insurer.
Common mistakes
- Generic GS answers that could apply to any student.
- OSHC that does not cover the full visa period.
- Choosing a low-cost provider only for work rights.
- Breaking visa conditions after arrival, such as attendance or work limits.
Always verify: Visa rules, fees and processing times change often. Always check the official embassy or government website before applying, and never submit false documents.
How we help
Choosing a university is only the first step. Our counsellors review your academic record, test scores, budget and career plans, then suggest a realistic shortlist with safe, moderate and ambitious options. Applications are processed through our partner network of universities and admission platforms, so you get one point of contact from shortlist to offer letter.
We also help you prepare your statement of purpose, check your documents before submission, plan your education loan and get ready for the visa stage. Our guidance is free for students: tell us about your plans and a counsellor will reply personally.
Frequently asked questions
Can I work on a subclass 500 visa?
Yes, within a fortnightly hour limit during study periods and without limits during scheduled breaks. Check the current cap.
Can I bring my spouse?
In many cases dependants can be included, but you must show extra funds and genuine relationship evidence.
What happens after my studies?
Eligible graduates may apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), subject to its current conditions.
