Studying in Australia in 2026: the complete guide (no fine print)

Australia is one of the best places in the world to study and work at the same time: top-tier education, the chance to work legally to cover your expenses, an enviable climate and an extremely high quality of life. But it is also a process with rules that change every year (they changed quite a bit in 2025–2026), and a mistake in your application can cost you time and money. This guide explains everything, clearly and up to date.

1. Why study in Australia

• You study and work legally up to 48 hours per fortnight during your course (with no limit during holidays).
• Globally recognised education: top universities and very practical, job-focused vocational training (VET).
• Real English: you learn the language by living it, not just in the classroom.
• Quality and safety of life among the highest in the world (Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane…).
• Possible future pathways: depending on your profile and studies, there are later visas (the decision always depends on the Government).

2. The Australian student visa (subclass 500)

The subclass 500 is the Australian Government's official permit to study legally in the country for more than 12 weeks, at an institution registered with CRICOS (the official register of courses for international students).

Main requirements (2026)

• Valid passport (ideally with at least 6 months of validity).
• Confirmed enrolment in a registered course: the document is called the CoE (Confirmation of Enrolment).
• OSHC health insurance, mandatory for your entire stay.
• Proof of funds: the Government requires you to show around AUD $29,710 for 12 months (on top of the course and the airfare).
• Meet the Genuine Student (GS) requirement — showing that you are genuinely coming to study (see section 7).
• Biometrics and/or a medical examination depending on your nationality.

3. Course types in Australia

📘 English (ELICOS)

General English courses, exam preparation (IELTS) or business English. It is the most common way in: you can start from a basic level and work while you study. Everything is in our guide to studying English in Australia.

🛠️ Vocational training (VET / TAFE)

Very practical vocational programs (IT, marketing, hospitality, construction, health, childcare…). Lower cost than university, flexible schedules and very job-focused.

🎓 University and postgraduate

Diplomas, bachelor's degrees and master's degrees at Australian universities, with the possibility of a post-study work visa depending on your case.

4. How much it costs to study in Australia in 2026

These are indicative figures (they vary by city, school and season). On the video call we give you a realistic budget for your case:

Item	Approximate cost (AUD)
Student visa (official Government fee)	from $2,000
English course (ELICOS)	$200 – $300 / week
Vocational course (VET)	$2,750 – $5,000 / term
University	$22,000 – $35,000 / year
OSHC health insurance	~$52 / month
Funds to demonstrate (12 months)	~$29,710
First month of expenses (accommodation, food…)	$1,500 – $2,000

The visa fee and the amount of funds are set by the Australian Government and can change (they are usually updated in July).

5. Studying and working in Australia

• You can work up to 48 hours every two weeks while your course is in session.
• No hour limit during the official course holidays.
• The first ~AUD $18,200 per year are tax-free.
• In many cases your partner can come with you and also work (we review this based on your situation).

With good hourly wages, many students cover a large part of their expenses for accommodation and food by working. We tell you everything in our guide to working and studying in Australia.

6. How to apply step by step

1. Assessment of your profile: English level, budget and goals.
2. Choose a registered course and school (CRICOS) with the best value for money.
3. Enrolment and CoE: you confirm your place and receive the key document.
4. OSHC insurance arranged.
5. Prepare the Genuine Student and the financial evidence.
6. Submit the application for the subclass 500 and pay the fee to the Government.
7. Approval and travel: you prepare your arrival (accommodation, bank, SIM…).

7. The Genuine Student (GS): the part that causes the most refusals

Since 2024 the Government has strengthened the Genuine Student requirement: you must show that your real intention is to study. It is one of the most frequent reasons for refusal when it is poorly prepared. This is where good advice makes the difference: we help you present your case in a coherent and solid way. The final decision always depends on the Department of Home Affairs.

8. Best cities to study

• Melbourne — cultural, student-friendly and full of opportunities (we have an office here!).
• Sydney — the most iconic, with beaches and international life.
• Brisbane / Gold Coast — warm climate, more affordable, ideal for English + lifestyle.
• Perth, Adelaide — lower cost of living and good job opportunities.

We compare them all in detail in our guide to the best cities to study in Australia.

9. Scholarships: the truth (no false promises)

There are partial discounts and scholarships from some institutions (in many cases 20% to 40% depending on the profile and the school). What you should not believe is anyone who promises you "100% free study": that is almost never real. We tell you honestly which real discounts you can qualify for.

10. How we help you (and why with us)

• 🏢 Our own office in Melbourne and our own staff who support you from start to finish.
• 🛡️ Migration assistance provided by a registered migration agent (MARN 2318321).
• 🎯 We choose the ideal course for your profile and budget, and prepare your application carefully.
• 🤝 We support you on arrival: accommodation, bank account and job search.
• 💬 Personal support by video call and WhatsApp. +800 students over the last 8 years.

11. Frequently asked questions