Quick Answer
Subclass 500 student visa requires applicants to obtain a CoE from a recognised educational institution, demonstrate Genuine Student status, purchase OSHC compliant with Condition 8501, and provide evidence of approximately AUD $29,710 annual living expenses (updated July 2024).
What is Australian Student Visa Subclass 500?
Subclass 500 is Australia’s most common student visa, allowing international students to study full-time at recognised Australian educational institutions (including universities, vocational training providers, and secondary schools). The visa validity period typically matches the course duration, with a maximum of 5 years.
As of 2026, the application fee for Subclass 500 is AUD $1,600 (adjusted as of July 2024). Visa applications must be submitted online through the ImmiAccount system, with processing times typically 1–3 months, though up to 6 months is possible.
What Are the Four Core Application Requirements for Student Visa 500?
1. Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a Recognised Institution Applicants must hold a CoE issued by a CRICOS-registered educational institution (such as University of Melbourne or UNSW Sydney) that confirms enrolment and eligibility for full-time study. CoE validity is typically 12 months, and visa applications should be submitted within this period.
2. Genuine Student Status Applicants must satisfy the Genuine Student assessment, demonstrating that their genuine purpose for coming to Australia is to study, not to work, migrate, or visit for other non-study purposes. Assessment is based on study plans, financial circumstances, work history, English proficiency, and return plans.
3. Financial Capacity Applicants must demonstrate ability to cover study and living expenses in Australia. Current financial requirements are AUD $29,710 per year (effective July 2024), plus tuition fees. Financial capacity can be evidenced through bank deposits, parental sponsorship letters, or scholarships.
4. Mandatory Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) Compliant with Condition 8501 Applicants must purchase OSHC covering the entire visa period. Visa Condition 8501 requires maintenance of valid OSHC insurance; failure to do so may result in visa cancellation.
What Is the Mandatory Relationship Between OSHC and Student Visa?
OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) is a mandatory government requirement for all Subclass 500 applicants. When a visa is approved, Condition 8501 is automatically attached to the visa, requiring applicants to maintain valid OSHC coverage throughout their study period.
According to Australian Department of Health regulations, OSHC must:
- Commence on the course start date (or visa grant date, whichever is later)
- Continue until course completion date or visa expiry date, whichever is earlier
- Cover basic medical, pharmaceutical, hospital, and ambulance services
- Be issued by an approved OSHC provider registered with relevant health authorities (such as Bupa, nib, or Allianz)
If applicants fail to maintain OSHC coverage during the visa validity period, the visa may be cancelled. The Department of Health conducts regular checks on OSHC coverage.
Relationship Between Genuine Student Assessment and Health Declaration
During Genuine Student assessment, applicants must answer a series of questions via ImmiAccount, including whether they have serious health conditions and whether they have any health requirements related to Australian social security. Applicants must honestly disclose all prior medical history; failure to do so may result in application rejection or visa cancellation.
Additionally, applicants may be required to undergo health assessment, particularly those from tuberculosis high-risk countries (such as China). Health assessments must be completed at designated Australian medical centres, with costs borne by applicants (approximately AUD $100–300).
Application Process and Timeline
| Step | Timeframe | Required Documents |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Obtain CoE | 2–4 weeks after university application | Offer letter |
| 2. Prepare financial proof | 1–2 weeks | Bank statements, sponsorship letter |
| 3. Health assessment (if required) | 1–2 weeks | Passport, medical centre appointment |
| 4. Purchase OSHC | Immediately after CoE | Personal information, course start date |
| 5. Submit visa application | Within CoE validity period | All documents above + ImmiAccount form |
| 6. Visa grant | 1–3 months | Grant Notification usually received before commencement |
Comparison of Student Visa 500 with Other Visas
| Visa Type | Maximum Validity | OSHC Requirement | Work Rights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subclass 500 (Student) | 5 years | Mandatory (Condition 8501) | 20 hours/week (during semester) |
| Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate) | 2–4 years | Optional (OVHC) | Unlimited |
| Subclass 407 (Training) | 2 years | Mandatory | Employer-specific |
| Subclass 590 (Guardian) | Course duration | Mandatory | Not permitted |
Fee Summary and Budget Planning
Total costs for Subclass 500 application include:
- Visa application fee: AUD $1,600
- OSHC (annual average): AUD $600–900 (varies by age and provider)
- Tuition fees: AUD $15,000–45,000 per year (varies by course type)
- Living expenses: AUD $29,710–40,000 per year (varies by state and lifestyle)
Total: approximately AUD $47,000–90,000 in first year
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How soon after visa approval must OSHC be purchased? A: OSHC should be purchased immediately after obtaining the CoE, no later than the course start date. If the visa is approved before the course begins, OSHC should commence on the course start date.
Q: Can OSHC providers be changed? A: Yes. Students can change providers at any time, but m