Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements for a Student Visa?

To be eligible for a Student visa (subclass 500), you must:

  • Hold a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered education provider
  • Meet the Genuine Student (GS) requirement (Direction 106)
  • Demonstrate English language proficiency
  • Hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay
  • Show evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself (and any dependants)
  • Meet health and character requirements

As of 23 March 2024, the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement has been replaced by the Genuine Student (GS) requirement under Ministerial Direction 106.

To satisfy the GS requirement, applicants must demonstrate:

  • A genuine intention to study in Australia
  • An understanding of the course, provider, and living arrangements
  • How the course aligns with their academic or career goals
  • That they are not using the visa primarily for migration purposes

Applicants must answer specific questions in the visa application form and provide supporting evidence, such as:

  • Academic transcripts and qualifications
  • Employment history
  • Explanation of any study gaps
  • Reasons for choosing the course and provider
  • Ties to home country (family, employment, community)
  • Direction 108 applies to student visa applications lodged before 23 March 2024 that were not finally determined by that date. It assesses whether the applicant intends to stay in Australia temporarily and return home after study.

  • Under the Simplified Student Visa Framework (SSVF), financial evidence requirements depend on your country of citizenship and education provider’s risk rating.

    You may be required to show evidence of funds to cover, as an example, the following:

    Expense type Amount (as of 2025)
    Living costs (student) $24,505 per year
    Living costs (partner) $8,574 per year
    Living costs (child) $3,670 per year
    Schooling costs (per child) $9,661 per year (unless exempt)
    Travel costs $2,000 (or more depending on location)
    Tuition fees As per CoE (first 12 months or full course if shorter)

    Acceptable evidence includes:

    • Bank statements (showing savings history)
    • Government loans or scholarships
    • Financial support from a parent or sponsor (with proof of relationship and income)

    Important: You must not rely on part-time work in Australia to fund your studies.

  • All student visa applications must be lodged online via ImmiAccount. You’ll need to:

    • Obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
    • Gather required documents
    • Prepare your Genuine Student statement and supporting evidence
    • Submit your application and pay the visa fee
    • Respond promptly to any requests for further information

If you are grappling with a visa refusal and seeking to appeal a decision, book a free 10 minute consultation with our immigration lawyers to discuss your options.

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