Applying for an Australian Student visa (subclass 500) can be an exciting step towards your education and future career. However, with new application rules taking effect on 2 October 2026, it’s more important than ever to understand the requirements before enrolling in a course or making travel plans.

Here are five tips to help you prepare.

1. Check Your Eligibility and Where You Can Apply

Before applying, make sure you meet the Student visa requirements. These generally include enrolling in a CRICOS-registered course, meeting the Genuine Student requirement, demonstrating sufficient financial capacity, meeting English language requirements where applicable, and holding Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

It’s also essential to check where you’re permitted to apply. Since 2 October 2026, most temporary visa holders can no longer lodge a Student visa application while in Australia. Some current Student visa holders may qualify for exemptions when applying for a further visa, but these are subject to specific criteria. If you’re required to apply from outside Australia, you must also be outside Australia when your visa is granted.

Check the latest requirements before committing to your study plans.

2. Prepare Your Documents

Gather all the necessary documents before you start your application. You will need:

  • A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your chosen school.
  • Proof of financial support, such as bank statements or a scholarship letter.
  • English language test results (like IELTS) if required.
  • Health insurance that covers your stay (Overseas Student Health Cover – OSHC).
  • A valid passport.

It’s important to have all these documents ready to avoid any delays in your application.

3. Understand the Visa Conditions

If your Student visa is granted, you’ll need to comply with its conditions throughout your stay. These may include maintaining enrolment, meeting course progress requirements, maintaining appropriate health insurance and notifying the relevant authorities of certain changes.

Most Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session, subject to their visa conditions. Different rules may apply to certain research students.

It’s also important to understand the new restrictions on family members. Most applicants can no longer include a partner or dependent children in their Student visa application unless a specific exemption applies. Family members can no longer be added as subsequent entrants after the visa has been granted.

If you’re planning to study with your family, check the rules carefully before making arrangements.

4. Apply Early

Start preparing well before your intended course commencement date. You’ll need time to secure your CoE, gather documents and meet the relevant application requirements.

Student visa processing times vary depending on factors such as your circumstances, the completeness of your application and current processing priorities. There is no guaranteed timeframe, so avoid booking non-refundable travel based on an assumed decision date.

If you’re already in Australia, check whether you’re eligible to apply onshore before lodging an application. If you need to apply offshore, factor this into your travel and accommodation plans.

5. Seek Help If Needed

Student visa requirements can be complex, particularly if you’re applying for a further visa, changing your study plans or navigating the new onshore application and family member restrictions.

If you’re unsure how the rules apply to your circumstances, consider speaking with a registered migration agent. They can help you understand the relevant requirements, identify potential issues and determine what steps you may need to take before applying.

At AVIE, we provide personalised guidance to help you understand your Australian migration options and prepare for the application process.

Applying for a Student visa is a significant step. Taking the time to understand the rules, prepare your documents and plan ahead can help you make informed decisions about studying in Australia.

For more detailed advice, contact an immigration expert who can provide personalized guidance based on your situation.

This blog was originally posted September 2024 and has since been updated.