Get the latest on Australia student visa 2025 updates, new rules, and fees. Find essential requirements, tips, and answers for a smooth subclass 500 application.

Introduction

Australia’s education sector welcomes students from more than 190 countries, with over 824,000 international students in 2024—a record high. But recent changes in 2025 have made the Australia student visa process more rigorous and complex. If you plan to study in Australia, understanding the new rules, updated fees, and the Genuine Student requirement is critical to a successful application.

What’s New for Australia Student Visa 2025?

Significant updates to the Australia student visa process and requirements came into effect in 2025. The most important changes include:

  • Mandatory Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): Onshore and offshore applicants must provide a valid CoE before lodging their application.
  • Visa Fee Increase: From July 2025, the base student visa (subclass 500) fee increased to AUD 2,000 per applicant.
  • Genuine Student (GS) Requirement: A new, more detailed assessment replaces the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) test, focusing more closely on your true intention to study and future plans.
  • Financial Capacity: Applicants must now demonstrate access to at least AUD 62,222 annually for tuition, travel, and living expenses.
  • English Language Standards: Updated minimum scores apply for IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE tests. Exemptions have been tightened.
  • Health Insurance: OSHC coverage for the full study period is compulsory.
  • Tighter Identity & Background Checks: Enhanced biometrics, police clearance, and health checks are required for most applicants.

Applicants must now be more prepared than ever before due to stricter screening and higher visa costs.

Subclass 500 Student Visa Requirements in 2025

The subclass 500 visa remains the standard visa for full-time international study in Australia. Updated 2025 requirements include:

  • Valid Passport: Must be valid for the entire period you intend to stay.
  • Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): Enrolment in a CRICOS-registered course is mandatory before applying.
  • Genuine Student (GS) Requirement: A written statement demonstrating your academic intention and future pathway is required.
  • English Proficiency: Meet required minimum English test results unless exempt.
  • Financial Capacity: Proof that you can fund living, tuition, and travel costs, including those of dependents.
  • Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Must cover all applicants from arrival to departure.
  • Health & Character Checks: Police clearances and medical exams may be required.
  • Personal Statement & Supporting Evidence: Academic background, ties to home country, and future goals must be clearly outlined.

Applicants should keep detailed records and submit consistent documentation for a smooth visa process.

How to Apply for an Australia Student Visa in 2025

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to apply for student visa Australia under subclass 500:

Step 1: Get a Letter of Offer and Accept It
Apply to your institution, accept your offer, and make required tuition deposits.

Step 2: Receive Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
Once accepted and paid, your university or college will issue your CoE.

Step 3: Prepare Key Documents
Include your passport, CoE, personal statement, OSHC proof, English language scores, financial records, police certificates, and medical checks if required.

Step 4: Submit Your Online Visa Application
Log in to your ImmiAccount, complete your subclass 500 visa form, attach documents, and submit your application.

Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee
As of July 2025, the base application fee is AUD 2,000 per applicant.

Step 6: Provide Biometrics & Attend Health Checks
Provide fingerprints and photos if required. Book health checks as instructed.

Step 7: Monitor Your Application
Respond to any follow-up requests and track status via your visa account system.

Step 8: Receive a Decision
Most applications are finalized in 2–6 weeks, though timing varies depending on volume and complexity.

Australia Student Visa Fees for 2025

Updated visa fees effective July 2025 include:

  • Primary applicant (subclass 500): AUD 2,000
  • Partner dependent: Approx. AUD 1,500
  • Dependent child: Approx. AUD 650
  • Additional costs: Medicals, biometrics, and background checks may apply

Applicants should confirm all current fees before submission and ensure affordability across the full study duration.

Practical Tips for a Successful Application

  • Apply Early: Start 6 months before your intended commencement date.
  • Provide Strong Supporting Statements: Tailor your personal statement to reflect your academic goals and intentions.
  • Show Genuine Financial Capacity: Bank letters, savings statements, and sponsor declarations should be clear and verifiable.
  • Verify OSHC Dates: Ensure coverage extends across your visa length and matches your travel plans.
  • Triple-Check Your English Scores: Verify that your test results match your institution and visa needs.
  • Keep All Documents Consistent: Ensure all names, dates, and figures match across your documents.
  • Stay Updated on Policy Changes: Australia student visa new rules 2025 may evolve throughout the year.

Key Reminders for 2025 Applicants

  • Visa fees have increased significantly. Budget accordingly.
  • The Genuine Student requirement is now a central part of the evaluation.
  • CoEs must be valid and included with the application for every course.
  • Applicants will face greater scrutiny on documents, health cover, and financial proof.
  • Biometrics and background checks apply to most applicants and dependents.

Begin your  journey

The subclass 500 student visa remains the gateway to one of the world’s best education systems. With the 2025 updates, applicants must prove financial capability, genuine intent, and academic readiness more clearly than ever. Begin your visa journey early, gather strong documentation, and follow every step carefully to secure your future in Australia.