Student Visa Australia

If you’re planning to study in Australia, understanding the student visa Australia framework is the first step. Australia offers a structured visa system for international students and, in certain cases, their parents or guardians.

This guide provides an overview of the main student-related visas, eligibility basics, and how the system works. For detailed criteria, each visa has its own dedicated page.

What Is a Student Visa Australia?

A student visa Australia allows international students to undertake full-time study in a registered course in Australia. It also allows eligible family members or guardians to accompany certain students.

The two main visas within this framework are:

Each serves a different purpose and applicant type.

Overview of Student Visa Types

Student Visa (subclass 500)

This is the primary visa for international students. It allows you to:

Study full-time in a CRICOS-registered course
Stay in Australia for the duration of your course
Work limited hours while studying (subject to conditions)
Include eligible family members

This visa applies across different education sectors, including:

Higher education (Bachelor, Master, PhD)
Vocational Education and Training (VET)
English language courses (ELICOS)
School education

For detailed eligibility, financial evidence requirements, and visa conditions, please visit to the dedicated Subclass 500 page.

Student Guardian Visa (subclass 590)

The Student Guardian visa is designed for:

A parent
Legal guardian
Eligible relative

Who needs to accompany and support a student visa holder who is under 18 years of age (or over 18 in limited circumstances).

This visa allows the guardian to stay in Australia for the duration of the student’s course, subject to specific conditions. Work rights are generally restricted.

Full eligibility and conditions are explained on the Subclass 590 page.

Basic Requirements for a Student Visa Australia

While requirements differ between visas, most student visa Australia applications involve:

Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

You must be enrolled in a registered course and obtain a valid CoE from your education provider.

Genuine Student Requirement

Applicants must demonstrate that they genuinely intend to study in Australia and comply with visa conditions.

Financial Capacity

You must show access to sufficient funds to cover:

Tuition fees
Living expenses
Travel costs

English Language Requirement

Depending on your nationality and course level, you may need to provide approved English test results.

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

You must hold adequate health insurance for the duration of your stay.

Detailed financial thresholds and documentary requirements are outlined in the Subclass 500 and Subclass 590 pages.

Work Rights Under a Student Visa Australia

Work rights depend on the visa type:

Student visa (Subclass 500): Limited work hours while your course is in session, with different arrangements during course breaks.
Student Guardian visa (Subclass 590): Work rights are generally limited and subject to strict conditions.

Always check the specific visa conditions attached to your grant notice.