Overview
The Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows international students to participate in a full-time course of study at a registered Australian educational institution. This visa remains the primary pathway for students entering the Australian education system in 2026.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this visa, you must:
- Be enrolled in a course of study in Australia and provide a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
- Meet the Genuine Student (GS) requirement, which replaced the previous GTE criteria.
- Provide evidence of adequate health insurance (OSHC) for the duration of your stay.
- Meet specific English language proficiency and health/character requirements.
2026 Application Fees
The Australian Department of Home Affairs updated visa pricing effective July 2025, with further indexation for 2026. The following Base Application Charges apply for the 2026 program year:
| Applicant Type | Base Application Charge (AUD) |
| Main Applicant | $2,000 |
| Additional Applicant (18 and over) | $1,500 |
| Additional Applicant (Under 18) | $500 |
Note: Applicants may also be subject to a $700 Subsequent Temporary Application Charge if applying while already in Australia on certain temporary visas.
Current Processing Times
Processing times are subject to the education sector stream and the "Evidence Level" of the provider. As of April 2026, the Department of Home Affairs reports the following global benchmarks for the Higher Education Sector:
- 50% of applications: 21 Days
- 90% of applications: 4 Months
Mandatory Requirements
- Financial Capacity: Applicants must demonstrate they have sufficient funds to cover travel, tuition, and living costs. For 2026, the minimum living cost requirement is AUD 29,710 per year for a single student.
- English Language Proficiency: Most applicants must provide results from an approved test (e.g., IELTS, PTE Academic). Ensure your test was taken within the 2 years immediately prior to your application date.
- Health Examinations: You may need to undergo a medical examination with an approved panel physician.
- Biometrics: Depending on your country of residence, you may be required to provide digital fingerprints and a facial photo at a Mobile collection point or designated clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work while studying on a Subclass 500 visa?
Yes. In 2026, most student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks.
What is the "Genuine Student" (GS) requirement?
The GS requirement focuses on the applicant's intention to obtain a quality education in Australia. You must provide a statement and supporting evidence showing that your primary reason for coming to Australia is to study and that you understand your visa conditions.
Do I need to include my family members?
You can include family members (partners and dependent children) in your initial application or add them later as subsequent entrants. Each family member must meet health and character requirements and have adequate OSHC.
What happens if my visa is refused?
If your application is refused, the Department will notify you in writing, stating the reasons for the refusal and whether you have a right to merits review by the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART).
