Migration Overseas
Migration Overseas
Study in Australia - Sydney Opera House
Subclass 500

Study in Australia

World-class education at top-ranked universities. Work part-time during studies, get post-study work rights, and pathway to permanent residence.

7.5 L+
Int'l Students
1.1 L+
Indian Students
43
Universities
Study in Australia - Sydney Opera House
Top 100 Universities
48 hrs
Work/Fortnight
2-4 yrs
Post-Study Work
PR
Pathway Available

Oct 2026 Update New Rules on Family Members and Where You Apply

From 2 October 2026, Home Affairs changed who can apply for a Student visa in Australia and whether family members can be included. Applications lodged before 2 October 2026 are assessed under the earlier rules.

  • Most applicants cannot include a partner or children
  • Family cannot apply later as subsequent entrants, in any circumstance
  • Family exemptions: PhD students, DFAT or Defence sponsored students, foreign government scholarship recipients, eligible Pacific Island and ASEAN nationals, and limited cases for current visa holders
  • Most applications must be lodged from outside Australia
  • Onshore applications only under an exemption, such as progression to a higher AQF level
  • Visa charge from 1 July 2026: AUD 2,500 for the main applicant
  • Student numbers: the National Planning Level is 295,000 new overseas student commencements for 2026 and again for 2027. Applications are Priority 1 until a provider reaches 80% of its allocation, then are processed more slowly

Jan 2026 Update India Moved to Highest Risk Level (Level 3)

Australia has shifted India to Evidence Level 3 under the Simplified Student Visa Framework (SSVF) effective January 2026. This means stricter scrutiny and additional documentation requirements for Indian applicants.

  • Graduate visa age limit: Since 1 July 2024 the Subclass 485 age limit is 35 or under at application. Under 50 applies only if you use a Masters by research or a PhD to qualify (or hold a Hong Kong or BNO passport).
  • More extensive financial evidence required
  • Bank statements for 3+ months mandatory
  • Authenticated academic transcripts needed
  • Higher chances of interview requests
  • Longer processing times expected
  • Genuine applications still approved

Benefits of Studying in Australia

Australia offers world-class education with excellent career opportunities.

Top Universities

7 universities in world top 100. Globally recognized degrees.

Work Rights

Work 48 hours per fortnight during studies. Full-time during breaks.

Post-Study Work

485 visa: Work 2 to 3 years after graduation depending on qualification, or 2 to 4 years for Indian nationals under AI-ECTA.

PR Pathway

Gain points from Australian study. Direct pathway to permanent residence.

Scholarships

Various scholarships available. Reduce your study costs significantly.

Indian Community

Large Indian student community. Support network in all major cities.

OSHC Coverage

Overseas Student Health Cover. Access to Australian healthcare system.

Quality of Life

Safe cities, beautiful weather, multicultural environment.

Visa Requirements

Complete checklist for Australia Student Visa Subclass 500.

Academic Documents

  • 10th & 12th marksheets
  • Bachelor's degree (if applicable)
  • Academic transcripts
  • English medium certificate
  • Gap justification (if any)

English Proficiency

  • Visa minimum is an overall score only (tests taken on or after 7 August 2025)
  • IELTS 6.0, PTE Academic 47, TOEFL iBT 67
  • C1 Advanced 161, CELPIP 7, LANGUAGECERT 61, MET 53, OET 1210
  • Lower scores apply with 10 or 20 weeks of packaged ELICOS
  • Universities and colleges often set higher entry scores

Financial Requirements

  • Tuition fees for first year
  • Living costs: AUD 29,710 for 12 months
  • Return airfare
  • School fees (only if an exemption allows children)
  • Bank statements (3-6 months)

Health & Character

  • Medical examination
  • Chest X-ray
  • Police clearance certificate
  • No serious health conditions
  • No criminal record

Insurance (OSHC)

  • Mandatory health cover
  • Cover entire visa duration
  • Approved OSHC providers only
  • Covers hospital & medical
  • Add family only if an exemption applies

Genuine Student (GS) Requirement

  • The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement was replaced by the Genuine Student (GS) requirement in March 2024. The GS requirement remains in effect.
  • Answer targeted questions (150 words each)
  • Why this course & why Australia?
  • Current circumstances & ties
  • PR intentions now allowed

Popular Courses for Indians

Top courses chosen by 1.2 Lakh+ Indian students in Australia for career growth & PR pathway.

Nursing & Healthcare

High demand profession with excellent salary. 22 Australian universities in QS top 200 for Nursing.

PR Pathway High Demand AUD 70-90K/year

IT & Data Science

Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Software Engineering, AI/ML. Growing demand globally with excellent work rights.

PR Pathway High Demand AUD 80-120K/year

Accounting & Finance

CPA/CA pathway available. Strong career prospects with major accounting firms and financial institutions.

PR Pathway SOL Listed AUD 65-100K/year

Engineering

Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Software Engineering. Engineers Australia accredited programs.

PR Pathway High Demand AUD 75-110K/year

MBA & Business

Global recognition, networking opportunities. Leadership roles in multinational companies.

Career Growth AUD 90-150K/year

Social Work

Direct PR pathway. High demand in regional areas. Make a real difference in communities.

PR Pathway Regional Bonus AUD 65-85K/year

Genuine Student Statement Tips

Master the new GS requirement with our expert guidance and example responses.

What is the Genuine Student (GS) Requirement?

The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement was replaced by the Genuine Student (GS) requirement in March 2024. The GS requirement remains in effect. You must answer targeted questions demonstrating your genuine intention to study and understand of the course/institution.

Word Limit 150 words per question
Questions 4-5 targeted questions
Key Change PR intentions NOW allowed

Current Circumstances

Question: "Give details of your current circumstances, including your ties to family, community, employment, and economic situation."

Writing Tips:
  • • Mention your current job role and employer
  • • Describe family ties (parents, spouse, children)
  • • Highlight property or business ownership in India
  • • Show community involvement or responsibilities

Why This Course?

Question: "Explain why you wish to study this course in Australia with this particular education provider."

Writing Tips:
  • • Link course to your career progression
  • • Mention specific course features that attracted you
  • • Reference university rankings or industry connections
  • • Explain why this course wasn't available in India

How Will It Help You?

Question: "Explain how completing this course will be of benefit to you."

Writing Tips:
  • • Describe specific career goals post-graduation
  • • Mention salary expectations or job roles targeted
  • • You CAN mention PR pathway aspirations now
  • • Link qualification to skill gaps in your industry

Research Done

Question: "Give details of any other research you have done about studying in Australia."

Writing Tips:
  • • Mention accommodation research done
  • • Reference cost of living calculations
  • • Discuss job market research in your field
  • • Show awareness of visa conditions and work rights

Previous Study History

Question: "If you have previously held a student visa, explain why you wish to continue studying."

Writing Tips:
  • • Explain progression from previous course
  • • Address any gaps in study history
  • • Show how new course builds on previous learning
  • • Be honest about any visa refusals

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Generic responses that could apply to any country
  • Copying templates from the internet
  • Not addressing all parts of each question
  • Exceeding the 150-word limit
  • Contradicting information in other documents
  • Not showing research about specific institution

Sample Response: "Why This Course?"

"I am applying for Master of Data Science at Monash University because it directly aligns with my 4-year career in business analytics at Infosys. The course offers specializations in Machine Learning and Big Data Analytics, areas where I need formal training to transition into senior data scientist roles. Monash's industry partnerships with ANZ Bank and Telstra provide practical exposure through capstone projects, which isn't available in comparable Indian programs. The course's CRICOS code 0100119 is specifically designed for international students, with a curriculum updated for 2026 industry requirements. My research shows Monash ranks #44 globally in Computer Science (QS 2025), and Melbourne's tech sector employs over 91,000 IT professionals, creating strong job prospects. (148 words)"

Why this works: Specific course details, career link, research evidence, word count compliance, institution-specific reasons.

OSHC Insurance Comparison

Approved OSHC providers include ahm, Allianz Care Australia, Bupa, CBHS, Medibank and nib. Compare current quotes before you buy.

What is OSHC?

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory health insurance for all Student Visa (Subclass 500) holders. It covers medical expenses, hospital treatment, ambulance services, and some pharmaceuticals during your stay in Australia. Cover must run for the whole of your stay and start on the day you arrive in Australia, and any family member on your visa needs cover too. Premiums change often and depend on the provider, the length of your visa and whether you are single, a couple or a family, so compare current quotes on each insurer's website or through your education provider.

Provider Single (Annual) Couple (Annual) Family (Annual) Key Features Rating
Medibank
Approved provider
Get a current quote Get a current quote Get a current quote 24/7 Health Line Largest Network ★★★★★
Bupa
Approved provider
Get a current quote Get a current quote Get a current quote Easy Claims App Multi-language ★★★★★
Allianz Care
Approved provider
Get a current quote Get a current quote Get a current quote Global Coverage Extra Benefits ★★★★☆
AHM (Medibank)
Approved provider (Medibank group)
Get a current quote Get a current quote Get a current quote Student Plans Simple Plans ★★★★☆
nib
Approved provider
Get a current quote Get a current quote Get a current quote Good Extras Fast Claims ★★★★☆

What's Covered

  • ✓ Hospital treatment (public/private)
  • ✓ Doctor visits and GP consultations
  • ✓ Ambulance services
  • ✓ Prescription medications (PBS)
  • ✓ Blood tests and pathology
  • ✓ X-rays and imaging

What's NOT Covered

  • ✗ Dental treatment (basic)
  • ✗ Optical/glasses
  • ✗ Physiotherapy
  • ✗ Pre-existing conditions (12-month wait)
  • ✗ Pregnancy (12-month wait usually)
  • ✗ Cosmetic procedures

Pro Tips

  • • Buy for full visa duration upfront
  • • Universities often have preferred providers
  • • Can switch providers at renewal
  • • Check if university includes OSHC in package
  • • Family plan only if an exemption allows family members
  • • Download app for easy claims

Regional Australia Study Benefits

Studying in a designated regional area can add 5 points to your points test and, later, extra time on a second Temporary Graduate visa.

+5 PR Points

For regional study

If you obtain a degree, diploma or trade qualification that meets the Australian study requirement while living and studying at a campus in a designated regional area (not by distance education), you can claim 5 points in the skilled migration points test. Regional study does not earn points for regional work experience, and it does not lengthen your first 485 visa.

Examples (check the Home Affairs regional list):

• All of South Australia
• All of Tasmania
• All of Northern Territory
• Perth & Western Australia
• Adelaide
• Gold Coast (parts)
• Newcastle
• Geelong

Key Benefits

  • +5 points for a qualification gained by regional study
  • Second Post-Higher Education Work visa: 1 or 2 extra years after your first 485, if you studied in a designated regional area and then lived only in one for at least 2 years
  • 491 visa option (Skilled Work Regional) with state or territory nomination or eligible family sponsorship
  • First 485 length depends on your qualification, not on where you studied
  • Lower living costs than Sydney/Melbourne
  • Destination Australia scholarships up to AUD 15,000/year
  • Less competition for jobs and housing

Top Regional Universities

  • University of Adelaide - QS #89, SA
  • University of Western Australia - QS #77, Perth
  • University of Tasmania - Research excellence
  • Charles Darwin University - NT hub
  • Flinders University - Adelaide, SA
  • Deakin (Geelong) - Regional campus
  • University of Newcastle - NSW regional

Cost Comparison (Annual)

  • Sydney/Melbourne Rent AUD 18,000+
  • Adelaide/Perth Rent AUD 10,000-14,000
  • Sydney Living Costs AUD 28,000+
  • Regional Living Costs AUD 18,000-22,000

Estimates only. Actual living costs vary by city. For the visa you must show AUD 29,710 for the student wherever you study.

In-Demand Regional Courses

  • Nursing - Critical shortage in regional areas
  • Agriculture - Strong in SA, WA, TAS
  • Mining Engineering - Perth & WA specialty
  • Marine Biology - Tasmania excellence
  • Social Work - High regional demand
  • Teaching - Regional school needs
  • Winemaking - Adelaide specialization

491 Regional Visa Pathway

  • Points-tested skilled regional visa
  • Requires state/territory nomination
  • 5-year provisional visa
  • Work & live in regional Australia
  • After 3 years, apply for 191 PR
  • Lower points threshold than 189
  • More occupation options available

Destination Australia Scholarship

  • Up to AUD 15,000/year (~₹8 Lakhs)
  • For study at regional campuses
  • Available for all degree levels
  • Must study full-time on campus
  • Renewable for course duration
  • 40+ participating universities
  • Apply through university directly

Student Accommodation Partners

Trusted accommodation options in major Australian cities for international students.

Sydney

NSW

  • Urbanest - CBD location $350-500/wk
  • Iglu - Modern studios $400-550/wk
  • Scape - Student community $380-520/wk
  • UniLodge - Near universities $320-450/wk

Melbourne

VIC

  • Student One - Carlton $320-420/wk
  • Scape - Multiple locations $350-480/wk
  • UniLodge - CBD/Suburbs $290-400/wk
  • Atira - Modern facilities $340-460/wk

Brisbane

QLD

  • Student One - CBD $280-380/wk
  • Scape - South Bank $320-420/wk
  • UniLodge - UQ area $260-350/wk
  • Iglu - City location $300-400/wk

Adelaide

SA - Regional Benefits!

  • Scape - CBD location $250-340/wk
  • UniLodge - Near UniSA $220-300/wk
  • Urbanest - Central $260-350/wk
  • Shared Housing - Suburbs $150-220/wk

Perth

WA - Regional Benefits!

  • Campus Perth - CBD $260-350/wk
  • UniLodge - UWA area $240-320/wk
  • Scape - Northbridge $280-380/wk
  • Shared Housing - Suburbs $140-200/wk

Booking Tips

  • Book 3-4 months before arrival
  • Ask university for accommodation list
  • Consider homestay for first semester
  • Check if utilities are included
  • Use Flatmates.com.au for shared housing
  • Regional cities are 30-40% cheaper

Universities Popular with Indian Students

World-ranked universities with strong Indian student communities and support services.

#13 World

University of Melbourne

Melbourne, VIC • Large Indian community

#19 World

University of Sydney

Sydney, NSW • Top for MBA & Business

#20 World

UNSW Sydney

Sydney, NSW • Top for Engineering

#30 World

Australian National University

Canberra, ACT • Research excellence

#40 World

Monash University

Melbourne, VIC • IT & Healthcare hub

#43 World

University of Queensland

Brisbane, QLD • Affordable living

#77 World

University of Western Australia

Perth, WA • Regional study points may apply

#89 World

University of Adelaide

Adelaide, SA • Regional study points may apply

Popular

Deakin University

Melbourne/Geelong • Nursing favourite

Popular

RMIT University

Melbourne, VIC • IT & Design hub

Popular

University of Technology Sydney

Sydney, NSW • Industry partnerships

Popular

Curtin University

Perth, WA • Engineering & Mining

FREE TOOL

Australia Study Cost Calculator

Get detailed expense breakdown for your study journey

Calculate

Study Costs

Understand the investment for your Australian education.

Tuition Fees (per year)

  • Bachelor's Degree₹15-30 Lakhs
  • Master's Degree₹18-35 Lakhs
  • MBA Programs₹25-60 Lakhs
  • PhD/Research₹20-35 Lakhs
  • Vocational (VET)₹8-15 Lakhs

Living Expenses (per year)

  • Accommodation₹6-12 Lakhs
  • Food & Groceries₹3-5 Lakhs
  • Transport₹80K-1.5 Lakhs
  • Utilities & Phone₹50K-80K
  • OSHC InsuranceGet a current quote

These ranges are indicative planning estimates, not official figures. Confirm the fee for your course with your education provider. For the visa, the financial capacity figures are listed in the Requirements section above.

Australia Study Intakes

Plan your Australia study journey with our intake calendar. View application deadlines and course start dates.

Application Process

Your journey to studying in Australia.

1

Choose Course & University

Research courses, compare universities, check entry requirements. Consider location, fees, and PR pathway potential.

2

Take English Test

Take an approved test such as IELTS, PTE Academic or TOEFL iBT. The visa minimum is IELTS 6.0 overall (or PTE 47, TOEFL iBT 67 or equivalent), lower with packaged ELICOS. Many universities ask for higher scores.

3

Apply to University

Submit application with documents. Receive offer letter. Accept offer and pay deposit to receive Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

4

Arrange Finances

Show funds for 12 months of tuition, living costs of AUD 29,710 and travel. Get an education loan if needed. Arrange OSHC insurance.

5

Apply for Visa

Lodge the visa application online from outside Australia (unless an onshore exemption applies) with CoE, financials, English scores, health insurance, and Genuine Student (GS) answers. Pay the visa application charge of AUD 2,500 (from 1 July 2026).

6

Medical & Biometrics

Complete health examination at approved clinic. Provide biometrics if requested. Check the Home Affairs visa processing time guide for current timeframes.

7

Visa Grant & Travel

Receive visa grant letter. Book flights, arrange accommodation. Attend pre-departure orientation. Begin your Australian journey!

Scholarships for Indian Students

Reduce your study costs with these scholarship opportunities for Australia.

Australia Awards Scholarships

Australian Government funded scholarships for students from developing countries.

  • ✓ Full tuition fees covered
  • ✓ Living allowance included
  • ✓ Return airfare provided
  • ✓ Health insurance covered

University Scholarships

Merit-based scholarships offered by Australian universities.

  • ✓ 10-50% tuition fee waiver
  • ✓ Based on academic excellence
  • ✓ Available at most universities
  • ✓ Renewable each year

Destination Australia

Government program supporting study in regional Australia.

  • ✓ Up to AUD 15,000/year
  • ✓ Regional campus study
  • ✓ Regional study can earn 5 points in the points test
  • ✓ Lower cost of living areas

Research Scholarships

For Masters by Research and PhD students.

  • ✓ Research Training Program (RTP)
  • ✓ Full tuition fee exemption
  • ✓ Living stipend ~AUD 32,000/yr
  • ✓ 3-4 year duration

Diversity & Inclusion

Scholarships for underrepresented groups.

  • ✓ Women in STEM programs
  • ✓ First-generation scholarships
  • ✓ Community leadership awards
  • ✓ Sports excellence scholarships

Industry Scholarships

Funded by Australian companies and industries.

  • ✓ Mining & resources sector
  • ✓ Tech company partnerships
  • ✓ Healthcare industry support
  • ✓ Often includes internships

Financial Services

Education loans, bank accounts, and forex services to fund your Australian education.

Education Loans

Up to ₹1 Crore from HDFC Credila, ICICI, SBI & more. Tax benefits under 80E.

ANZ Bank Australia

Open your Australian bank account from India. Ready to use on arrival.

Forex Services

Best exchange rates for tuition payments and forex cards for daily expenses.

Financial Documentation

CA certificates and bank statements for visa financial requirements.

View All Financial Services & Partners

Pathway to PR

How studying in Australia can lead to permanent residence.

Student to PR Pathway

Graduate from Australian institution → Apply for 485 Post-Study Work Visa → Gain work experience → Apply for PR through skilled migration

Complete Studies

Minimum 2 years study in Australia. Graduate with recognized qualification.

Apply for 485

Post-study work visa, 2 to 3 years depending on qualification (2 to 4 years for Indian nationals under AI-ECTA). Apply within 6 months of finishing your course.

Gain Experience

Work in your skilled occupation. Gain Australian work experience points.

Apply for PR

Apply for 189/190/491 visa. Get permanent residence and settle in Australia.

Family Members: Rules from 2 October 2026

Most Student visa applicants can no longer include a partner or children, and most must apply from outside Australia.

What Changed on 2 October 2026 (Subclass 500)

From 2 October 2026, most Student visa applicants cannot include family members (a partner, or a dependent child under 18) in their application unless they meet an exemption category. This also applies to people applying for a further Student visa. Family members cannot apply later as subsequent entrants in any circumstance. Applications lodged before 2 October 2026 are assessed under the rules in place on the date they were lodged.

Partner and Children Only if you meet an exemption
Joining You Later Not allowed as subsequent entrants
Where to Apply Outside Australia, unless an onshore exemption applies

Exemptions to Include Family

  • Doctoral (PhD) students (a Master's by Research does not qualify)
  • Students sponsored by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) or the Department of Defence
  • Foreign government scholarship recipients whose scholarship fully funds their studies
  • Eligible nationals of Pacific Island and ASEAN countries
  • Other exemptions for current Student visa holders whose family members are already on their visa, in limited cases (course completion, provider default, or progression to a higher AQF level), where the visa was held or applied for before 2 October 2026

Where You Must Apply

  • Most applications must be lodged from outside Australia
  • Student visa holders can apply in Australia only under an exemption:
  • Up to 12 additional months needed to finish the main course
  • Sponsored by DFAT or the Department of Defence
  • Applying to study a PhD, or primary or secondary school
  • Main course completed and progressing to a higher AQF level
  • Education provider has defaulted

Visa Charges from 1 July 2026

  • Main applicant: AUD 2,500
  • Family member 18 or over: AUD 1,530 (only where an exemption allows family)
  • Child under 18: AUD 500 (only where an exemption allows family)
  • Lower charges apply to some Pacific, Timor-Leste and ASEAN citizens

Funds to Show (12 Months)

  • Student: AUD 29,710 living costs
  • Partner (exemption only): AUD 10,394
  • Each child (exemption only): AUD 4,449
  • Schooling costs of at least AUD 13,502 per year for each school-age child
  • First 12 months of course fees, plus travel

Children Born During Your Visa

  • A child born in Australia automatically holds the same visa as the parent
  • A child born outside Australia while your application is processed can be included only if you meet a family exemption
  • A child who has turned 18 when the visa is finalised needs their own visa

If an Exemption Applies

  • Family members must apply at the same time and from the same location as you
  • Family members in Australia must hold an eligible visa to apply
  • All family members must meet health and character requirements
  • OSHC must cover every family member on the visa

Important Considerations for Families

No Adding Family Later: Family members cannot apply as subsequent entrants to join you after your visa is granted, in any circumstance.
Invalid Applications: If you do not meet an exemption, do not lodge for family members. Home Affairs will not accept the application, and an invalid decision cannot be reviewed at the ART.
Applied Before 2 October 2026: Applications lodged before this date, including those that included family, are assessed under the earlier rules.
Planning as a Couple: A partner who does not fall under an exemption cannot come on your Student visa and would need to qualify for a visa in their own right.

Under-18 School Student Visa

Complete guide for school students wanting to study in Australia.

School Sector Student Visa

Students under 18 can apply for Student Visa (Subclass 500) to study primary or secondary school in Australia. Special welfare arrangements are mandatory for minors.

Age Requirements

  • • Minimum 6 years old for primary school
  • • Must be under 17 for Year 9
  • • Must be under 18 for Year 10
  • • Must be under 19 for Year 11
  • • Must be under 20 for Year 12

School Types & Fees

  • Government Schools: AUD 8,000-15,000/year
  • Catholic Schools: AUD 10,000-20,000/year
  • Independent/Private: AUD 20,000-45,000/year
  • Boarding Schools: AUD 25,000-60,000/year (all-inclusive)
  • CRICOS registered schools only
  • Must provide age-appropriate education
  • English preparation programs available

Academic Requirements

  • Previous school transcripts/report cards
  • English language proficiency evidence
  • AEAS test often required for private schools
  • Some schools require entrance exams
  • Age-appropriate grade placement
  • Immunization records
  • Letter from current school principal

Mandatory Welfare Arrangements

  • Students under 18 must have approved welfare
  • Option 1: Parent/guardian accompanies (590 visa)
  • Option 2: Relative (21+) in Australia nominated
  • Option 3: School-arranged accommodation
  • Welfare must continue until student turns 18
  • CAAW (Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation & Welfare) letter required
  • School must approve all arrangements

Accommodation Options

  • With Parent: Parent on Student Guardian Visa (590)
  • Homestay: Live with Australian host family
  • Boarding School: Live on school campus
  • With Relative: Approved relative in Australia
  • Homestay costs: AUD 250-350/week
  • All arrangements require school approval
  • Regular welfare checks conducted

Financial Requirements

  • Full tuition fees for study duration
  • Living costs: AUD 29,710 for 12 months
  • OSHC for entire visa period
  • Return airfare
  • Additional costs if parent accompanying
  • Bank statements (6 months recommended)
  • Sponsor's income proof if applicable

Visa Conditions for Minors

  • Condition 8105: Limited work (0 hours unless 18+)
  • Condition 8202: Must maintain enrolment
  • Condition 8501: Maintain health insurance
  • Condition 8516: Continue satisfying visa conditions
  • Condition 8532: Maintain welfare arrangements
  • Must notify school of address changes
  • Attendance requirements (80%+)

Student Guardian Visa

Comprehensive guide for parents/guardians accompanying minor students to Australia.

What is Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)?

For parents/guardians to stay in Australia with minor students

The Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590) allows a parent, legal custodian, or relative (21+ years) to stay in Australia as a guardian for a student visa holder who is under 18 years old. This visa ensures the welfare and care of minor international students during their studies in Australia.

AUD 2,500
Visa Application Fee
(from 1 July 2026)
Until 18
Valid Until Student's
18th Birthday
Varies
Processing Time
(see Home Affairs guide)
No
Work Rights
(Generally)

Who Can Apply?

  • Parent: Biological or adoptive parent
  • Legal Custodian: Court-appointed guardian
  • Relative: Must be 21+ years old
  • Must be nominated by student's parent
  • Must provide genuine care and support
  • One guardian per student (exceptions for siblings)
  • Must have clean criminal record

Application Requirements

  • Valid passport (6+ months validity)
  • Student's Subclass 500 visa grant
  • Relationship proof (birth certificate, etc.)
  • Financial capacity evidence
  • Health insurance (OVHC)
  • Character certificate (PCC)
  • Medical examination
  • Genuine guardian statement

Financial Requirements

  • Living Costs: AUD 29,710 for 12 months
  • Return airfare funds
  • OVHC insurance (not OSHC)
  • Accommodation costs
  • Bank statements (3-6 months)
  • Income proof from home country
  • Sponsor letter if applicable

Key Visa Conditions

  • Condition 8101: No work permitted
  • Condition 8201: Limited study (max 3 months)
  • Condition 8501: Maintain health insurance
  • Condition 8516: Continue meeting visa requirements
  • Condition 8521: Cannot stay after student's 18th birthday
  • Condition 8523: No further visa stay onshore
  • Must live with and support the student

Limitations & Restrictions

  • No work allowed in Australia
  • Study limited to 3 months (short courses only)
  • Cannot change to work visa onshore
  • Must leave when student turns 18
  • Cannot be away from student for extended periods
  • Maximum 3-month absence rule
  • Cannot bring other dependents on this visa
  • From 2 October 2026, guardians who hold most other temporary visas (for example a Visitor visa) must lodge the 590 from outside Australia and be outside Australia when it is granted. Current 590 holders can still lodge a further 590 in Australia

Multiple Children Scenario

  • Can be guardian for multiple siblings
  • All children must be studying in Australia
  • Visa valid until youngest turns 18
  • May need separate welfare letters per child
  • Single visa fee for one guardian
  • Must provide care for all nominated students
  • School approval required for each child

Comparing Welfare Options for Under-18 Students

Option Pros Cons Cost
Student Guardian Visa (590) • Parent can stay with child
• Full control over welfare
• Emotional support for student
• No work rights
• Limited study (3 months)
• Must leave when child turns 18
High
AUD 2,500 + living costs
Approved Relative (21+) • No extra visa needed
• Family member in Australia
• More flexibility
• Must have eligible relative
• Relative must be approved
• Limited availability
Low
No visa fee
School Homestay/Boarding • Parent can stay in India
• School manages welfare
• Cultural immersion
• Child away from parents
• Less parental control
• Adjustment challenges
Medium
AUD 15,000-25,000/yr

Student Guardian Visa Application Steps

1
Student Gets Visa First Child's Subclass 500 must be granted
2
Gather Documents Relationship proof, financials, PCC
3
Apply Online ImmiAccount application + fee
4
Health & Biometrics Medical exam, biometrics if required
5
Visa Decision Check the Home Affairs processing time guide

Common Questions About Student Guardian Visa

Can I work on Student Guardian Visa (590)?

No, work is generally not permitted. However, you may request permission to work up to 48 hours per fortnight in exceptional circumstances (financial hardship) by contacting the Department of Home Affairs.

Can my spouse also come on Student Guardian Visa?

No, the 590 visa is only for the guardian. Your spouse would need a separate visa (like Visitor Visa 600). Only one guardian is allowed per student unless there are exceptional circumstances.

What happens when my child turns 18?

Your 590 visa will cease 28 days after your child turns 18 (or another set date). You must leave Australia or apply for a different visa. You cannot extend the 590 visa or change to another visa while onshore in most cases.

Can I study while on Student Guardian Visa?

Yes, but limited to maximum 3 months of study. This can be English language courses, short vocational courses, or other non-award courses. You cannot enrol in a full degree program.

Can I leave Australia temporarily while on 590 visa?

Yes, but you must not be absent from Australia for more than 3 months total. Extended absences may result in visa cancellation. Before any overseas travel, ensure alternative welfare arrangements are approved by the school.

Australia Student Visa Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about this visa category.

What is the Subclass 500 student visa?

Subclass 500 is Australia's student visa for international students enrolled in full-time registered courses including vocational education, undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs.

What are the financial requirements?

You must show enough money for your travel, 12 months of course fees and 12 months of living costs: AUD 29,710 for the student. Where an exemption allows family, add AUD 10,394 for a partner, AUD 4,449 for each child and at least AUD 13,502 per year in schooling costs for each school-age child.

Can I work while studying?

Yes, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic sessions and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Your enrollment must remain full-time.

What English score is required?

The visa asks for an overall score only. For tests taken on or after 7 August 2025 the minimum is IELTS 6.0, PTE Academic 47, TOEFL iBT 67, C1 Advanced 161, CELPIP 7, LANGUAGECERT Academic 61, MET 53 or OET 1210, with lower scores if your course is packaged with 10 or 20 weeks of ELICOS. Your university or college may require a higher score for entry.

What is the Genuine Student requirement?

You must be a genuine student and show an understanding that studying in Australia is the primary reason for your Student visa. The Genuine Student requirement replaced the former Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement in March 2024.

Can my family accompany me?

For most applicants, no. From 2 October 2026 you cannot include a partner or children unless you meet an exemption: PhD students, DFAT or Defence sponsored students, foreign government scholarship recipients, eligible Pacific Island and ASEAN nationals, and limited cases for current Student visa holders. Family members cannot apply later as subsequent entrants in any circumstance.

Can student visa lead to PR?

While not directly, graduates can apply for Subclass 485 (Graduate Visa) for post-study work rights, then pursue skilled migration pathways like 189, 190, or employer sponsorship.

What is OSHC?

Overseas Student Health Cover is mandatory health insurance for student visa holders. You must maintain OSHC for your entire visa duration and include family members if applicable.

How long can I stay on student visa?

A Student visa can be granted for up to 6 years, in line with your enrolment. From 2 October 2026 most further Student visa applications must be lodged from outside Australia. You can apply in Australia only under an exemption, for example if you need up to 12 more months to finish your main course or are progressing to a course at a higher AQF level.

What happens if I fail or drop courses?

You must maintain enrollment conditions and satisfactory progress. Failure to do so can result in visa cancellation. Contact your institution immediately if facing difficulties.

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