Australia’s Subclass 500 Student Visa opens doors to world-class education for Indian students. The process demands precise documentation and Genuine Student compliance amid updated 2026 requirements. Follow this structured guide for streamlined visa approval.
Step-by-Step Australia Study Visa Application Process
Step 1: Research CRICOS-Registered Courses – Identify full-time programs at Australian universities, TAFEs, or colleges listed on the CRICOS register. Select courses showing academic progression from prior qualifications. Align choices with your career goals for Genuine Student assessment.
Step 2: Secure University Offer Letter – Apply directly to institutions with academic transcripts and English scores. Receive conditional Letter of Offer specifying fees and course details. Accept by signing agreement and paying deposit to proceed.
Step 3: Obtain Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) – Pay deposit to receive electronic CoE from your institution. This document contains course code, dates, and tuition details—mandatory for visa lodgement. Keep PDF secure for application and travel.
Step 4: Prove English Proficiency – Submit IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL results valid within 12 months. Exemptions apply for prior Australian study or English-medium degrees. Book tests early to avoid processing delays.
Step 5: Arrange Financial Capacity Proof – Show funds covering tuition, living expenses, and travel costs. Use bank statements, education loans, or sponsor affidavits. Acceptable proofs demonstrate genuine ability to finance studies.
Step 6: Purchase Overseas Student Health Cover – Secure OSHC policy covering entire course duration from approved providers. Compare single/family options via Study Australia portal. Upload payment receipt with visa application.
Step 7: Prepare Complete Documentation – Compile passport, CoE, academic records, English results, financial evidence, OSHC, and GS Statement. Translate non-English documents with certified translations. Organize files systematically for upload.
Step 8: Lodge Application via ImmiAccount – Create account at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au and select Subclass 500 visa. Complete GS questionnaire detailing study intent and career benefits. Upload documents and submit with visa fee.
Step 9: Complete Biometrics and Medicals – Book VFS Global appointment for fingerprints and photos. Undergo medical examination if requested by authorities. Use ImmiAccount HAP ID for health appointment tracking.
Australia Student Visa 2026 Fee Structure
| Visa Application Fee | AUD 1,600 (main applicant) |
| Additional Applicant (18+) | AUD 1,190 |
| Additional Applicant (Under 18) | AUD 390 |
| Biometrics Fee | AUD 40 (India) |
| Medical Examination | AUD 350-500 |
| OSHC Single Policy | AUD 600-1,200/year |
| Total Estimated Cost | AUD 2,500-3,500 |
Australia Student Visa Processing Times 2026
| Processing Priority | Expected Timeline | Typical Applicant Profile |
| Priority 1 (High Demand Courses) | 1-4 weeks | Top universities, STEM courses |
| Standard Processing | 5-8 weeks | Most undergraduate/postgraduate |
| Complex Cases | 12+ weeks | Repeated visa refusals, gaps |
| 75% Applications | Within 2 months | Complete documentation |
Indian students must emphasize career relevance and academic progression in GS statements to overcome heightened scrutiny. Migration agents prove valuable for first-time applicants navigating updated financial thresholds and processing priorities. Secure CoE from CRICOS-registered providers and maintain organized documentation throughout.
Ready for Australia? Book your FREE visa eligibility assessment with Future Fly Services today and start your study abroad journey with expert guidance.