Australia Student Visa Guide

With a record of 376,731 Australia student visa success rate in 2023-2024, India holds the second-highest intake of students. However, the picture of student permit Australia will change in 2024 because the Australian government recently stated a shortage of housing, as a result of increased immigration. This has resulted in a 23% drop in Australia study visa. The Education Ministry has given hints of making changes in the intake of international students. They are planning to cap a certain percentage of intake around 40%. However, the implementation will be from January 1, 2025. 

 

Additionally, for Temporary Graduate, Maritime Crew, and Visitor visas, as well as specific Temporary Work visas the applicant needs to apply for a student visa from outside. Therefore, to counter these issues we have brought the visa guide which will help you evaluate the changes and some alternatives that you can consider to pursue your education in Australia. 

When planning to apply for a student visa for Australia, international students have access to four different types of student visas, each tailored to specific goals and circumstances. 

Student Visa (Subclass 500):

The Australian student visa 500 is the most common type of visa, costs ₹55,412 (AUD1,600), and is available only to students outside Australia. Applicants must be 18 years or older and can apply after completing the 12th standard. The visa is valid for up to five years, depending on the chosen course (which should not be less than 6 months). Visa 500 Australia permits a student spouse visa Australia after providing sufficient financial resources. A fee waiver is available for those affected by COVID-19 by submitting Form 1545. However, students applying for packed courses must ensure that there is only 2-month gap between courses. 

Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590):

This Australia Study Visa is for the guardians accompanying international students under 18, but, for some exceptional cases, it may be granted to older students. Applicants must be at least 21 years old and, if required, must be enrolled in English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) for up to 20 hours per week for a maximum of three months. The visa is valid until the student turns 18 or completes their course and costs around ₹₹55,412 (AUD1,600).

Training Student Visa (Subclass 470):

For students seeking formal training or work experience in Australia, the Training Visa (subclass 407) offers great opportunities. This visa costs ₹22,996 (AUD415) and is ideal for students who have completed their studies and want to gain professional experience. Usually, the subclass 407 visa is organized by an employer thus, also helps in a speedy process. It is common for athletes who show interest in international training.

Temporary Graduate Visa Australia (Subclass 485)

The 485 visa Australia is perfect for students who have completed their graduation and now they are either living in Australia or outside the country. With the help of this visa, one can gain hands-on experience in their relevant field in Australia. It is a great option as it doesn’t require any organization involved and the applicant can search for work after reaching Australia. The visa is valid for 18 months and costs around ₹1,07,776 (AUD 1,945).

Student visa Australia application always begins with meeting the eligibility criteria, which vary following the university. However, certain parameters are consistent for all universities in the country, while they may vary by the university you’re applying for. We’ve listed information below regarding the language proficiency scores, backlog allowances, and any additional standardized tests that may be required for the application.

Australia Graduate Visa Requirements:

The candidate must have completed 12 years of education with a minimum of 60%. Additionally, a strong command of English is required, with an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each band. Applicants with up to 10 backlogs may be considered, although some institutions may accept more. 

Postgraduate Visa Australia Requirements:

For those pursuing a master’s degree, the requirements differ. They need 3-4 years of undergraduate degree with a minimum of 65%. English proficiency must be shown through a 6.5 IELTS score overall, with no band lower than 6. Some institutions even accept students without the English proficiency exam based on the marks scored in the English subject.

When a student visa for Australia is sent, certain documents must be uploaded to complete the application process. Follow the checklist below to ease your visa application process. 

Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE):

An acknowledgment from the university confirming your enrollment in a course.

Passport: 

Your passport should be valid for the duration of your stay in Australia.

Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Statement:

A document explaining your future prospects, your intention behind studying abroad, and your plan to return to India after completing the course.

Proof of Funds:

Evidence that you have access to funds that can sustain you for one year in Australia.

English Proficiency Test Result:

A valid certificate of IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores as required by your course and university. 

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC):

Health insurance that students must purchase before applying for a student visa.

Academic Certificate:

Copies of previous educational certificates.

Photographs:

Recent photographs as per visa specifications.

 

For a detailed guide on each document, visit the Australia Student Visa Checklist 2024.

Sought expert guidance before filling out the visa application thus, seek a certified immigration consultant and verify the agency's credentials before providing them with your money and documents. Below is a step-by-step guide to the visa application process:

 

1. 
   Collect all the required documents.
2. 
   Create an immi account.
3. 
   Verify account using your mobile number and email ID.
4. 
    Apply for the visa (double-check the visa category before submitting).
5. 
   Upload all the required documents.
6. 
   Review your application.
7. 
   Pay the application fee.
8. 
   Receive an acknowledgment slip.
9. 
   Wait for an interview date. 

Ready to take the next step? Visit the Australia Visa Application for detailed information, and make sure your application is set up for success!

The application cost for a Student visa (Subclass 500) is ₹55,412 (AUD 1,600). You can use the Visa debit/credit card for the payment. However, the overall cost may vary based on the arrangement of documents, with the final amount potentially totaling around ₹3,55,000.

The processing time for an Australian student visa typically ranges from 4 to 6 weeks. During this period, it’s important to track your application status regularly. Upon successful processing, you will receive an email with an answer.

 

 

Everyone has to undergo an interview to get their visa, and this is often where many students face rejection. Let’s analyze some common questions that are major reasons for visa denials and how to answer them effectively.

Q: What is the purpose of your trip? 

The officer is looking to confirm that you have a clear understanding of why you're traveling. Answer with confidence and don’t exaggerate the answer.

 Q: Why do you wish to study in Australia? 

This question tests your motivation for choosing Australia as your study destination. Provide a well-rounded answer explaining your career goals, and opportunities that are not available in your home country.

Q: Are you planning to live in Australia after your course ends? 

This is a trick question where many applicants struggle. It’s important to convey your intentions clearly including a long-term goal to return to India, where you plan to apply your skills and contribute to the growth of my home country. Explain your family ties and career opportunities which can be your primary motivations for returning. 

Q: I see that your current course is in a completely different field. Why is that?

The visa officer wants to understand your reasons for changing fields. Respond thoughtfully and explain how the field aligns more closely with your career aspirations.

Q: Could you tell me a little about the university you have chosen?

This question assesses whether you've done thorough research about your chosen institution. You can research the university website and structure your answer accordingly.

Q: Why is your TOEFL/IELTS score so low? 

Even if you have scored within the band eligible for your university, the visa officer can question your low score. Thus, reason your low score with reasons that lead to these drawbacks. However, it also provides a remark of improvement. 

Even if your score meets the minimum requirements, the officer might question your low score. Address the mistakes and how you working on improving your score.

Q: What do your parents do for a living? 

The officer is verifying your financial stability. Provide a clear and accurate answer as they will verify it once.

Q: Do you have any outstanding loans?

Answer honestly and accurately, as this information can be verified. If you have any loans, provide details of the amount and the type of loan.

Q: How many people are financially dependent on your sponsor?

The officer needs to know how many people rely on your sponsor financially, as this could affect their ability to support your education. Provide the required details and evidence to show that your sponsor can fully cover your financial needs during your stay in Australia.

Q: How can you prove you will return to your home country after completing your course of study in Australia? 

The officer is looking for proof of your intention to return home, rather than staying in Australia, which would violate your visa conditions. Offer strong evidence, such as family ties, job prospects, or assets in your home country, to demonstrate your commitment to returning.

Q: Do you have any assets in your country of origin? 

List all of your assets, such as properties, businesses, or vehicles, in your home country. A strong response will reassure the officer that you intend to return home after finishing your studies.

Q: What if your student visa is rejected?

This is an opportunity to show your determination to study in Australia. Let the officer know that you are committed to being even better prepared next time and that you will take steps to address the reasons for the rejection.

A visa application is a crucial step and determines your future goals thus, it is necessary to have a clear understanding of the course, university, and financial status. If you lack confidence in any of these areas, it could result in visa rejection. To avoid this, learn more about the common reasons for rejection by reading our guide on Australia Student Visa Rejection. Equip yourself with the knowledge to secure your visa without worry.