Can You Apply for a Student Visa on a 485 Visa? Here's What You Need to Know

If you’re wondering how to apply for a student visa while holding a 485 Graduate Visa, the process involves more than just submitting an application. This article will break down the requirements and steps you need to know, including the role of the Confirmation of Enrollment (COE).

What is a 500 Student Visa?

A Student Visa (subclass 500) allows international students to study full-time at a registered education institution in Australia. To apply for this visa, you need to be enrolled in a course registered with the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). The visa also allows you to live in Australia while you complete your studies and grants you the ability to work part-time during your studies.

What is a TR 485 Graduate Visa?

The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) is for international students who have recently completed their studies in Australia. It allows you to stay and work in Australia temporarily, typically for 18 months to 4 years, depending on your qualification. If you're on a 485 Graduate Visa and want to transition to a student visa, there are some important considerations to keep in mind.

What is a Confirmation of Enrollment (COE)?

A Confirmation of Enrollment (COE) is a crucial document issued by Australian educational institutions to students who have been accepted into a course. This document confirms your enrollment and is required when applying for a Student Visa. The COE includes key details such as your personal information, the course you are enrolled in, the institution's name, and the duration of your study. Without this document, you cannot proceed with your Student Visa application.

How Can You Apply for a Student Visa When Already on a 485 Visa?

According to the policy, you cannot lodge a 500 Student Visa application while you are on a TR 485 Graduate Visa within Australia. However, you are still eligible to apply for the Student Visa offshore. The key requirement for this process is securing a Confirmation of Enrollment (COE) from an Australian educational institution.

The COE process has become more complex in recent years, and universities now have more stringent requirements before issuing a COE. It is not an automatic process and may require additional steps, such as meeting financial or academic criteria, or demonstrating your intentions for further study in Australia.

How to Apply for a Student Visa While on a 485 Visa?

If you're looking to transition from a 485 Graduate Visa to a Student Visa, the first step is to leave Australia and apply from offshore. After securing your COE, you can proceed with your Student Visa application. The process may seem challenging, but by understanding the requirements and working with migration experts, you can ensure a smoother transition.

Book a consultation with RACC Australia, and we’ll guide you through every step of the application process—from securing your COE to submitting your Student Visa application, making sure your path to studying in Australia is as seamless as possible.

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