Over the years, Australia has become an education hub for Indian students. Many students aspire to pursue their higher education here. Apart from the world-class universities that offer a multicultural exposure, the high quality of life makes Australia even desirable. But before you board the flight to your dreams, you need to take the steps that lead to it.
Start by creating a plan — outline the steps to follow to get a study visa for Australia from India. Also, include a checklist containing the names of all the required documents. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Student Visa (Subclass 500), from eligibility to the application process.
What is a Student Visa Subclass 500 for Australia
The Student Visa Subclass 500 allows international students, including Indian nationals, to live and study in Australia for up to 5 years. The validity of this visa actually depends on the length of the course. This visa also offers a part-time work permit, so that international students also manage their expenses while studying in a foreign land.
Key Features of the Subclass 500 Visa
On this visa, you get to:
- Stay in Australia for up to 5 years. This duration is usually in line with your course length — if you are pursuing a two-year-long course, that is most likely the validity of your student visa as well. However, you do have a buffer time to figure out the steps after your course.
- Work for up to 48 hours over two weeks during your semester. This restriction is for you to focus on your studies. You can pursue a full-time job while you are on scheduled breaks.
- Include your family members — parents, spouse/partner and dependent children in your application.
- Travel in and out of Australia as many times as you want, while your visa is valid.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Study Visa for Australia from India
Here are the steps (in order) to help you plan and apply for a study visa for Australia from India:
- Choose Your Course and Institution: Before you get into the visa process, you should have enrolled in a course with a recognised institution registered with CRICOS. You can consider top universities like the University of Melbourne, Monash University, and the University of Sydney.
- Preparing for CoE: Once you get an offer letter from the institute you chose, you can proceed to fulfil the requirements (opting CRICOS-registered course, providing financial capacity proof, meeting academic and English language requirements, paying tuition fee, and getting a health insurance — OSHC) to get a CoE.
- Getting a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): Once you meet the requirements, the institution will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). A CoE is required to apply for a study visa for Australia from India.
- Gather the Documents for Visa Application: Your documents need to be valid, up-to-date and complete. You’ll need:
- Passport: You cannot proceed with the visa application without a passport.
- CoE: This is a formal document of confirmation of your admission from your Australian university
- GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant): Your statement, which proves that you intend to stay in Australia temporarily, only for studies.
- Sufficient funds: You must be capable of financially sustaining yourself in Australia. This means you should be able to bear a minimum of AUD 24,505 annually.
- Health cover: As per the directions of the Department of Home Affairs (DHA), maintaining an Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is required to proceed with a student visa application.
- Academic reports: To verify your background.
- IELTS/TOEFL/PTE score: Overall 6 bands in any one English proficiency test.
- Passport-sized pictures: For identity verification.
- Experience letter (if applicable): Proof of your work experience is only needed in certain cases — to explain academic gaps, a change in academic background, etc.
- Submit Your Visa Application: After you have successfully met all the requirements and prepared your application, you can apply for your study visa for Australia from India through the ImmiAccount portal on the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website.
- Biometrics and Health Check-up: After the submission of your application, you may be asked to provide biometrics at a visa application centre (VAC) and undergo a medical examination from a panel physician approved by the Australian Government.
What to do After Applying for the Student Visa?
After applying for the student visa, wait for the decision. The processing of a visa application takes around 4 to 8 weeks. The update regarding your application will be available on ImmiAccount, so keep a check.
After your visa is approved, you’ll receive your visa grant letter. This letter will have all the necessary details.
You can now officially move to Australia for studies!
Final Thoughts
International students move to Australia because it is home to top institutions offering quality education. The student visa opens the door to incredible educational opportunities in Australia. The experience of a vibrant culture and a welcoming environment makes the country even more desirable. If you plan well, getting a study visa for Australia from India can be an easy street.
