Applying for a student visa to Australia in 2025 is a little different than before. The Department of Home Affairs has made some changes to make the process stricter but more transparent. If you’re planning to study in Australia you need to understand the latest steps and rules clearly. This guide will explain the Australia student visa process step by step using simple English and small sentences for easy understanding.
What Is an Australian Student Visa Subclass 500
To study in Australia you need a Subclass 500 Student Visa. It lets international students live and study in Australia. With this visa you can stay for up to 5 years depending on your course. You can also work part-time during your study period.
What’s New in 2025
There are new rules for student visas in 2025. Due to a rise in applications Australia student visa processing time 2025 has changed. Now the process can take longer especially if documents are missing.
Also financial proof requirements have increased. Students must now show higher bank balances and stronger Genuine Student Intent GSI. The GTE Genuine Temporary Entrant statement is now replaced by GSI which checks if you are a real student and not coming only to settle or work.
Australia Visa Processing Time Student
The Australia visa processing time student depends on where and how you apply.
- Onshore student visa Australia processing time for students already in Australia takes around 4 to 6 weeks
- Offshore applications from outside Australia usually take 6 to 8 weeks
- If your documents are complete and your medical is done early you may get a faster response
Australia student visa processing time after medical is usually 2 to 3 weeks depending on your health results.
Who Can Apply
You must:
- Have a Confirmation of Enrolment CoE from an Australian university or college
- Be 16 years or older
- Show financial capacity
- Pass English language tests
- Meet health and character requirements
Documents Required
Here are the main documents you need:
- Passport with at least 6 months validity
- CoE letter from your college or university
- English test results like IELTS TOEFL or PTE
- OSHC Overseas Student Health Cover
- Proof of funds bank statements or sponsor documents
- GSI statement replacing the GTE
- Academic transcripts
- Birth certificate or national ID
Step-by-Step Australia Student Visa Process
Let’s walk through the Australia student visa process step by step
Step 1: Apply to an Australian Institution
Choose a course and college. Apply and get your CoE. This is necessary before applying for a visa.
Step 2: Arrange Health Insurance
Buy an OSHC policy from an approved provider. You must have this to cover medical costs during your stay.
Step 3: Gather Documents
Collect all documents including passport CoE proof of funds and English test results.
Step 4: Create an ImmiAccount
Visit the official website of the Department of Home Affairs and create an ImmiAccount.
Step 5: Fill the Online Application
Log in to your ImmiAccount and choose Subclass 500 visa. Fill the form carefully.
Step 6: Pay the Application Fee
The visa fee is AUD 710 in 2025. Pay this using your credit or debit card.
Step 7: Biometrics and Health Check
You’ll get instructions for biometrics and medical exams. Book your health check with an approved clinic.
Step 8: Wait for Decision
After submission and medical exam wait for a decision. You may be asked to provide more documents.
Australia Student Visa Processing Time After Medical
Once you complete your medical exam your application enters the final stage. If your health check is clear you can expect a decision in 2 to 3 weeks. But this depends on your country and visa stream.
How Much Bank Balance Is Required for Australia Student Visa
As of 2025 the required bank balance is:
- AUD 29710 for 12 months living cost
- AUD 2620 for travel cost flight ticket
- Full tuition fee for 1 year depending on your course
If you are bringing family members add AUD 10000 per person.
Your money must be in a personal or sponsor bank account for at least 3 months before applying.
Australian Student Visa New Rules 2025
The new rules for 2025 include:
- Stricter financial checks
- New GSI requirement
- Longer processing time if documents are missing
- Risk assessment for high-risk countries
- Some countries now require interviews
Make sure your documents are genuine. Fake documents can lead to a visa refusal and a ban from applying again.
Can You Work on a Student Visa
Yes. You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during your study period. During vacations you can work full-time.
Many students work part-time in retail hospitality and delivery jobs. But do not depend fully on part-time income. It may not be enough for your living expenses.
What Happens If Your Visa Is Refused
If your visa is refused you will receive a letter stating the reason. Common reasons include:
- Incomplete documents
- Weak GSI statement
- Not enough funds
- Fake documents
You can apply again after correcting the issues or appeal the decision within a specific time.
Tips to Avoid Visa Refusal
Here are a few simple tips
- Submit all documents clearly and correctly
- Write an honest and detailed GSI statement
- Show proof of real money in the bank
- Pay the correct fees
- Book medical exams early
After Getting the Visa
After approval you’ll get a visa grant notice. This includes your visa number start and end dates and conditions.
Book your ticket and arrive in Australia before your course starts. Keep printed and digital copies of your visa and CoE.
