Australia is one of the most urbanized nations in the world. It is also known as the ‘Land Down Under’. This name derives from the location of the country in the Southern Hemisphere. It is also famous as one of the top places for overseas learning in the world. Thus, many students from various nations apply for Australia study visa for higher education. As per the Indian Ministry of Education, around 2 lakh students went to Australia for higher studies in 2022. But why are everyone so interested in this and how to apply for the visa for the same? What are the three types of study visas? Let’s know more about it.

What Is Student Visa (Subclass 500)?

The Student visa (subclass 500) allows you to remain for up to 5 years in Australia. The purpose of this visa is your full-time study in the learning institute and line with your enrolment in this country. The approximate cost for the Australia study visa is a minimum of AUD 710 which is around INR 38,300. Also, the cost may increase based on the courses and other details. The given cost is only applicable to the main applicant and may increase if any are exempt.

Why Should You Apply for Australia Study Visa?

With the Australia study visa, you are allowed to participate in any eligible courses in the country. Also, you can travel in and out of the nation. The aspirants are eligible to work up to 48 hours a fortnight when their course of study or training is in session. Also, students studying for a master’s by research or doctoral degree and their families have no work limit.

What Are the Preference Criteria for the Student Visa 500?

It is not easy to apply for a student visa 500. Some requirements need to be fulfilled by the applicant before applying for it. Thus, the criteria that you should fulfil for the application for an Australia study visa are as follows:

1. Age of the Applicant:

The age of the applicant should be 6 years or older. If you are under 18 years of age, you must have adequate welfare arrangements in place while you are in the country. If you will be 18 years of age during you arrival in Australia, you must tell the organization about the same as you might not need to provide some of this information.

2. Registration:

You must give a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) at a full-time course registered on the CRICOS. It stands for Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Also, the institutes that you are opting for the study Australia must be on the list of CRICOS. Otherwise, the visa application will be declined.

3. English Proficiency:

You may need to give evidence of your English language skills during the submission of your visa application. For this, you must give proof that you have obtained a test score in an English language test.

You must have taken the English language test in the 2 years before you apply for an Australia study visa. The passing criteria for every English language test may vary. In IELTS, you should qualify with a minimum of 5.5 band score. While in TOEFL, you need to get at least 46 marks.

4. Meet Health and Character Needs:

You and your family members must be covered by Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). This insurance must be from an approved Australian health insurance provider for the length of your stay in the country. When you apply for a visa, declare all criminal conduct you have engaged in. Also, truthfully answer all doubts as well as give all needed details.

5. Financially Stability:

You must have enough money to pay for your stay in Australia. Living costs vary throughout Australia. The cost may be higher than needed for your visa application. You should not rely on work to support yourself or your family while in Australia.

After knowing about the preferences that are needed for the application of student visa 500. There is a need to know the process of application for the same.

How to Apply for an Australia Study Visa?

If you are outside Australia, apply for your visa at least 6 weeks before your course begins. Also, if you are in Australia, allow plenty of time prior to the expiry of the current visa as you may need more time in the event of any issues. The following are the steps for the application for an Australia study visa:

1. Before You Apply:

You and your family members must hold a valid passport to lodge a student visa application. If you are in Australia and your current passport expires, you will need to renew it before you apply for your student visa. Thus, make sure you have a valid passport.

2. Check Your Needed Documents:

Use the Document Checklist Tool and gather your documents. To ensure you must have the most current list as the Document Checklist tool. Also, the tool is updated twice a year on 31 March and 30 September. This also applies to the online visa application in or outside of Australia.

3. Apply for a Visa:

You must apply for this visa online. Even, you can apply while being in or outside Australia. You should submit a complete and decision-ready application. These applications that are lodged without relevant documents may be refused or delayed.

4. After Applying for a Visa:

You should respond to any requests for information promptly. Above all, do not need to wait until the deadline to respond to a Departmental request for further details. Also, you should regularly check for messages from the Department and respond promptly. You must avoid booking travel before your visa has been finalized.

5. Visa Outcomes:

The firm will let you know in writing about the decision for your visa application. They will tell you about your visa grant number, the date your visa expires as well as your visa conditions. Always keep a copy of the decision with you when in Australia. If they refuse your visa, they will let you know in writing. They will also tell you why they refused and whether you have a right to review the decision.

Conclusion

In the end, it can be said that applying for a visa is a tough process. It needs various documents for application. Only verified documents are eligible for the application. The subclass of visa that is applicable in the country of Australia is student visa 500. It is only applicable to students. But may include the family members if needed. Also, fulfilling all the needs for the application for a visa can help you reach your dream of Study Australia without failing.