Ultimate Guide to the Australian Student Visa Subclass 500 in 2025
Studying in Australia is a dream for many international students, offering world-class education, diverse cultures, and a pathway to Permanent Residency (PR). If you’re planning to study in Australia, understanding the Student Visa (Subclass 500) process is crucial.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Australian student visa, its benefits, requirements in 2025.
What is the Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500)?
The Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows international students to:
- Study full-time in an accredited Australian institution
- Work up to 48 hours per fortnight (during term) & unlimited hours during holidays
- Include eligible family members (spouse & children) in the visa
- Stay in Australia for up to 5 years, depending on the course duration
Latest Updates to the Student Visa in 2025
The Australian Government has introduced new changes to improve the quality of international students and align education with migration policies.
Higher English Language Requirements
- IELTS: 6.0 overall (previously 5.5) / PTE: 52 overall
- Exceptions: Higher requirements for professional courses (e.g., Nursing, Teaching)
Increased Financial Requirements
- Proof of AUD 29,710 for living expenses (higher than before)
- Additional financial proof for dependents (spouse & children)
Stronger Genuine Student (GS) Requirements
Stricter checks to ensure students are genuine & not using education as a PR loophole
A more detailed GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) Statement required
Work Rights for Students & Dependents
- Students: 48 hours per fortnight (unlimited during breaks)
- Dependents (Spouses): Can work full-time if the student is enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program
Top Courses for PR Pathway in 2025
To increase your chances of Permanent Residency (PR), choose a course from Australia’s Skilled Occupation List (SOL).
High-Demand PR Courses:
- Nursing & Healthcare
- Information Technology (IT) & Cybersecurity
- Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical)
- Teaching & Education
- Accounting & Finance
- Social Work & Community Services
Tip: Studying in a regional area can earn you extra PR points and a faster PR invitation!
Student Visa Requirements & Application Process
1. Eligibility Criteria
Enrolled in a CRICOS-registered Australian course
Meet English proficiency requirements (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL)
Proof of financial capacity (tuition, living expenses)
Submit a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Statement
Hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
2. Documents Required
Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) from an Australian university
English test results (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL)
Proof of financial support (bank statements, sponsorship letters)
Passport & ID documents
OSHC (health insurance) policy
Why Study in Australia? Top Benefits
High-Quality Education – Top-ranked universities (Melbourne, Sydney, ANU, UQ)
Part-Time Work – Earn & support your studies (48 hrs/fortnight)
Post-Study Work Visa (485) – Stay & work in Australia after graduation
Pathway to PR – Study in high-demand fields & secure Australian residency
Safe & Multicultural – A welcoming environment for international students