Australian student visa requirements in 2026 (subclass 500)

The student visa subclass 500 is the Australian Government's official permit to study legally in the country. Meeting all of its requirements —and demonstrating them well— is what makes the difference between a smooth approval and a refusal that costs time and money. Here is the complete checklist, updated for 2026.

What the subclass 500 is

It is the visa that allows a foreign citizen to study in Australia for more than 12 weeks at an institution registered with CRICOS (the official register of courses for international students). With it you can also work up to 48 hours every two weeks during your course. The decision to grant it rests exclusively with the Department of Home Affairs.

1. Confirmed enrolment in a registered course (CoE)

You need to be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course and obtain the CoE (Confirmation of Enrolment), the document that confirms your place. Without a CoE the application cannot be submitted. We help you choose the school and the course with the best value for money for your profile.

2. OSHC health insurance

The Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for your entire stay. It covers basic medical costs and is around AUD $52 per month (it varies by insurer and duration). It must be in force from your arrival until the end of your visa.

3. Demonstrate sufficient funds

The Government requires you to prove that you can support yourself. The reference figure is around AUD $29,710 for 12 months of stay, in addition to the course cost and the airfare.

4. Meeting the Genuine Student (GS) requirement

Since 2024, the former "GTE" has been replaced by the Genuine Student (GS): you must show that your real intention is to study. It is assessed through a form and your personal, academic and financial history. It is one of the most sensitive points of the whole application. We explain it in depth in our guide to the Genuine Student requirement.

5. Level of English

It depends on the course:

• English courses (ELICOS): in many cases an official exam is not required; you start according to your level.
• VET / university: a specific level is required, normally with IELTS, PTE or similar.

We assess your level and, if needed, plan an English course beforehand. More detail in studying English in Australia.

6. Documents and biometrics

• Valid passport (ideally with at least 6 months of validity).
• CoE for the course and OSHC arranged.
• Financial evidence (statements, letters, depending on the case).
• Genuine Student form and supporting documents.
• English certificate if the course requires it.
• Biometrics and/or medical examination depending on your nationality.
• Depending on the case: police clearance certificates, official translations, etc.

Mistakes that cause refusals (and that we avoid)

• Submitting the financial evidence incompletely or poorly justified.
• A Genuine Student that is generic or inconsistent with your profile.
• Choosing a course that doesn't fit your academic or professional history.
• Documents without an official translation when one is required.
• Starting the process late, with no margin for processing times.

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 review each requirement and prepare your evidence carefully to minimise the risk of refusal.
• 🤝 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.

Frequently asked questions