How To Apply For An Australian Student Visa? 8 Simple Steps

Introduction (Counter-narrative hook)

Do you think applying for an Australian Student visa is complicated?

It’s actually easier than most people think if you know what to prepare and where to start!

So, how to apply for an Australian Student visa?

Follow PTE Magic for a clear, step-by-step guide to help you get it right the first time!

Key Takeaways

• Before applying for a Student visa, you need to be accepted by an Australian education institution and get a Confirmation of Enrolment.
• Creating an ImmiAccount is essential to complete your online application, upload documents, and track your visa status.
• Once approved, your visa allows you to stay in Australia for your course duration plus a short period afterward.

How To Apply For An Australian Student Visa? 8 Detailed Steps

Step 1: Prove English Language Proficiency

As most courses in Australia are taught in English, you need to show your language skills by taking an approved English test, such as:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
• PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English)
• Cambridge English (CAE)

Step 2: Get Accepted By An Australian Education Provider

Before applying for your Student visa, you must first be accepted by a school, college, or university in Australia.

First, you need to apply for your chosen course.

If your application is successful, the institution will send you a Letter of Offer outlining the course details, tuition fees, and refund policies.

Once you agree to the terms and pay your deposit, your school will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

This document is essential for your Student visa application, as it confirms that you’re officially enrolled in a registered course in Australia.

Step 3: Create An ImmiAccount

Next, you’ll need to create an ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.

This is where you will complete your visa application, upload documents, pay fees, and track your visa status.

You just need to follow the steps on the website and make sure you have all your documents ready, such as:

• Passport
• CoE
• Proof of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
• English test result
• Financial documents showing you can afford your studies and living costs

Step 4: Complete The Visa Application Online

When your ImmiAccount is ready, you can fill in your Student visa (subclass 500) application.

Make sure you answer all questions truthfully and attach all required documents.

Your application should also include:

• Your Genuine Student (GS) statement: explaining why you want to study in Australia
• Proof of financial capacity: at least AUD 29,710 to cover living and study expenses
• Evidence of English proficiency
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

It’s best to submit your visa application at least 6 weeks before your course starts to avoid delays.

Step 5: Pay The Visa Fee And Receive TRN

After you’ve filled in all the details, you’ll need to pay your visa fee, currently around AUD 2,000.

Once the payment is made, you’ll receive a Transaction Reference Number (TRN).

This number is important as it allows you to track your visa progress online on your ImmiAccount.

Therefore, you should keep it safe and note it down somewhere.

Step 6: Undergo Health Check/Interview (If Required)

Depending on your own situation, you might be asked to complete a medical examination or attend an interview.

If this happens, the Department of Home Affairs will send you instructions after you submit your visa application.

Your health check ensures you meet Australia’s health requirements before entering the country.

You can use the My Health Declarations service to complete this step early if you want to save time later.

Step 7: Receive Visa Decision

When your application is processed, you’ll receive an email with your visa outcome. You can also check it through your ImmiAccount.

If approved, you’ll get a Visa Grant Letter showing your visa number, conditions, and validity period.

Most students receive their results in 3-4 weeks, but it depends on how complete your application is and the workload of the immigration office.

Your visa is electronic, but you should print the Visa Grant Letter and bring it along your passport when you travel.

Step 8: Travel To Australia

Being granted a Student visa means you’re officially ready to begin your Australian study adventure!

Before traveling, you need to:

• Check the latest travel and entry requirements on the official website.
• Bring copies of your visa documents.
• Keep your OSHC card handy for medical visits once you arrive.

FAQs 

How Long Does It Take To Get An Australian Student Visa?

Usually, 50% of applications are processed in 3-4 weeks, while 90% are finalized within 5 months. 

The processing time may vary depending on how complete your application is and the volume of requests at a time.

How Much Does The Australian Student Visa Application Cost?

The Australian Student visa application fee is AUD 2,000 for the primary applicant, effective from 1 July 2025. 

There are also additional fees if family members apply with you.

What Is The Validation Of An Australian Student Visa?

The Australian Student visa is generally valid for the length of your study program, plus extra time after your course ends. 

This additional period is usually:

• 2 months if your course lasts less than 10 months
• 4 months if your course lasts 10 months or more
• 6 months for postgraduate research students

Conclusion

How to apply for an Australian Student visa? 

It’s a simple process when you follow the 8 key steps above. 

Just prepare your documents, meet all requirements, and submit your application early. 

With careful learning, you’ll soon be ready to start your study journey and new life in Australia.

Last updated on 20/10/2025