Student Visa 500

Australia is known for its top-class education, vibrant culture, and unique lifestyle. The Student Visa 500 allows international students to study full-time at some of Australia’s best educational institutions. If you’re planning to take your education to the next level while exploring everything Australia has to offer, this visa is the perfect fit.

Costs & Details of the Student Visa 500

Category	Details
Base Visa Application Fee	AUD 1,650 for the primary applicant
Additional Applicant (18+ years)	AUD 620
Additional Applicant (Under 18)	AUD 150
Subsequent Temporary Application	AUD 700 (if holding another temporary visa when applying)
Additional Costs	– Medical Exams – Police Certificates – OSHC (varies)
Fee Refund Eligibility	Partial refund for citizens of Pacific Island nations & Timor-Leste
Processing Time (English Courses)	90% processed in 4 weeks
Processing Time (Higher Education)	90% processed in 6 weeks
Processing Time (VET Courses)	90% processed in 8 weeks

Applying for a Student Visa 500 involves specific costs and details, but it’s a valuable investment towards your educational journey in Australia. Here’s what you need to know:

Base Visa Application Fee: Starting from AUD 1,650 for the primary applicant.
Additional Applicants:

Dependents over 18: AUD 620.

Dependents under 18: AUD 150.

Subsequent Temporary Application Charge: If you’re applying for this visa while holding another temporary visa, an extra AUD 700 will be added.

Additional Costs:

Be sure to factor in extra costs like:

Medical Exams: Required to meet health standards.
Police Certificates: To fulfil character requirements.
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Mandatory for the duration of your stay. It varies depending on your provider and coverage level.

If you’re a citizen of Pacific Island nations or Timor-Leste, you may be eligible for a partial refund of the visa fee. Make sure to check if you qualify before applying.

Processing Times:

The time it takes to process your Student Visa 500 can depend on various factors, such as the type of course and individual circumstances. Here’s a general guide:

English Language Courses (ELICOS): 90% of applications are processed within 4 weeks.
Higher Education: 90% processed within 6 weeks.
Vocational Education and Training (VET): 90% processed in 8 weeks.

For the best chance of timely processing, it’s advisable to apply well before your course starts, as delays can occur due to peak periods or additional document requests.

What You Can Do with a Student Visa 500

The Student Visa 500 opens up more than just a classroom in Australia—it offers a wide range of opportunities to enhance your experience. Here’s what this visa allows you to do:

Study Full-Time: Whether you’re enrolling in primary school, secondary education, or university, this visa lets you join a registered course at a recognised Australian institution.
Work Part-Time: You’re allowed to work up to 48 hours a fortnight while studying, which means you can gain practical experience and manage your living expenses.
Bring Family Members: If eligible, you can bring dependents with you, and they may be able to work or study based on your course type.
Travel Flexibly: Enjoy the freedom of multiple entries, allowing you to travel in and out of Australia while your visa is valid.

With these benefits, the Student Visa 500 is designed to make your time in Australia rewarding, both academically and personally.

Eligibility Criteria for Student Visa 500

To apply for the Student Visa 500, you need to meet several essential requirements. These ensure that you’re eligible to study in Australia and that all necessary arrangements are in place for your stay. Here’s a breakdown of the key criteria:

Age Requirements:
- You must be at least 6 years old to apply.
- For school enrolments, the age limits are as follows:
  - Less than 17 years old when starting Year 9.
  - Less than 18 years old when starting Year 10.
  - Less than 19 years old when starting Year 11.
  - Less than 20 years old when starting Year 12.
Enrolment in a Registered Course:
- You must be accepted into a full-time course at a registered Australian institution. This can include:
  - Primary or secondary school.
  - Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses.
  - Higher education (university) courses.
  - English language courses.
Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE):
A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your institution is required to prove your acceptance. If you’re applying for multiple courses, CoEs for each course must be provided.
Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement:
- You must demonstrate that your intention to stay in Australia is genuinely for study purposes. Immigration officers may ask specific questions to evaluate your situation and plans.
Financial Capacity:
- You may need to provide evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and costs for any accompanying family members. This can include bank statements or financial guarantees.
English Language Proficiency:
- Depending on your course and institution, you may need to prove your English language skills. This is typically done through standardised tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. The exact requirement will depend on your education provider.
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC):
You must have valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your stay in Australia. This health insurance ensures you’re covered for medical needs while studying abroad.
Welfare Arrangements for Under 18s:
- If you’re under 18 years old, you need to have approved welfare arrangements in place. You may stay with a guardian, in institution-arranged accommodation, or with a homestay family.
Health and Character Requirements:
- You must meet Australian health and character standards. This typically includes undergoing a medical examination and submitting police clearance certificates as part of your application.

By meeting these eligibility criteria, you’ll be well on your way to applying for the Student Visa 500, giving you access to study opportunities in Australia.

English Language Requirement for Student Visa 500

To qualify for the Student Visa 500, applicants must demonstrate their proficiency in English. Below is a unique table outlining the minimum test scores required by different English language test providers, along with specific conditions for those who combine their scores with English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS).

English Language Test Provider	Minimum Test Score	Minimum Test Score with 10+ Weeks ELICOS	Minimum Test Score with 20+ Weeks ELICOS
International English Language Testing System (IELTS)	5.5	5	4.5
TOEFL Internet-Based Test	46	35	32
Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)	162	154	147
Pearson Test of English Academic	42	36	30
Occupational English Test	B for each component	N/A	N/A

These scores ensure that students can effectively participate in their courses and communicate in an academic setting. Be sure to check with your chosen institution for any additional requirements!

How CIA Lawyers Will Help You Get the Student Visa 500

Applying for a Student Visa 500 doesn’t have to be stressful—CIA Lawyers are here to simplify the process and guide you through every step. Here’s how we can assist:

Assessing Your Eligibility: Before you begin, we’ll thoroughly review your situation to ensure you meet all the visa requirements, giving you confidence right from the start.
Preparing and Submitting Your Application: We’ll help you gather all necessary documents and ensure the application is completed accurately, avoiding any missed details that could delay your approval.
Avoiding Common Mistakes: With our expertise, you’ll avoid typical application errors that can lead to delays or rejections. We’ll make sure everything is submitted correctly the first time.
Supporting You Throughout the Process: From the moment you start your application to when your visa is granted, we’re available to answer your questions, clarify any concerns, and ensure the process runs smoothly.

With CIA Lawyers by your side, you can feel confident that your Student Visa 500 application is in capable hands, letting you focus on your future in Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How many hours can I work on a Student visa subclass 500 Australia?

A: On a Student Visa subclass 500, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session. During breaks, you may work unlimited hours.

Can subclass 500 apply for PR?

A: Yes, while the Student Visa subclass 500 is not a pathway to permanent residency, studying in Australia can help you gain qualifications and experience that may support your application for a skilled visa later.

Q: Can I bring my parents to Australia on a student visa subclass 500?

A: You cannot directly bring your parents on a Student Visa subclass 500, but you may apply for their visitor visas separately if you wish for them to join you during your studies.

Q: Is subclass 500 a temporary resident visa?

A: Yes, the Student Visa subclass 500 is a temporary resident visa, allowing you to stay in Australia for the duration of your studies, typically up to five years.

Q: What is the PTE score for subclass 500?

A: The minimum PTE score required for the Student Visa subclass 500 is 42. This score may vary based on the course you are applying for and any ELICOS programs you plan to undertake.

Our Process

1. Consultation

Connect with a qualified solicitor to discuss your immigration needs and determine the best strategy for securing your visa under Australian immigration law.

2. Application

Our legal consultants will guide you through the preparation of all required documentation, including any necessary written or oral submissions.

3. Approval

We stand by your side throughout the entire process, advocating on your behalf and supporting you until your visa application is successfully approved.