Doc Summary
Australia offers world-class education, globally recognised qualifications, and exciting career pathways. This formal guide explains exactly how to study in Australia in 2025—from choosing a CRICOS-registered course and meeting English requirements to securing your Student visa (subclass 500), budgeting accurately, and planning pathways to work and migration.
Quick steps: how to study in Australia #
- Choose a CRICOS-registered course and provider
- Meet entry and English requirements (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL iBT)
- Apply to the provider and receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
- Purchase Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
- Apply for the Student visa (subclass 500) and meet the Genuine Student requirement
- Arrange accommodation, flights, and arrival essentials
Why study in Australia in 2026 #
Australia’s higher education and vocational training sectors are quality-assured and employer-aligned. With dynamic cities, safe campuses, and post-study opportunities, Australia remains a leading choice for international students. Learn more at the official Study Australia site: https://www.studyaustralia.gov.au/.
Choose the right course and provider #
Always select a provider and course listed on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS): https://cricos.education.gov.au. Quality regulators include:
- TEQSA (Higher Education): https://www.teqsa.gov.au/
- ASQA (VET): https://www.asqa.gov.au/
When comparing providers, assess graduate outcomes, industry placement options, campus location, intake dates, and total program costs. Skills Campus can help shortlist CRICOS courses aligned to your goals: https://skillscampus.com.au/.
Entry and English requirements #
- Academic: Meet the prerequisite subjects and minimum grades for your chosen program (VET, undergraduate, or postgraduate).
- English: Most institutions accept IELTS Academic, PTE Academic, or TOEFL iBT. Scores vary by course level (e.g., many undergraduate programs require IELTS 6.0–6.5 or PTE 50–58 equivalent). Check your provider’s policy.
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): If you have substantial work experience or prior studies, you may be eligible for credit or advanced standing, potentially reducing time and cost.
How and when to apply #
For major intakes (February and July), start 6–9 months in advance. Typical timeline:
- Research and shortlist courses: 9–12 months out
- Prepare documents and English test: 6–9 months out
- Apply to provider and receive an offer: 4–6 months out
- Accept offer, pay deposit, receive CoE: 3–5 months out
- Apply for Student visa (subclass 500): 2–4 months out
- Arrange accommodation, OSHC, flights: 1–2 months out
Student visa (subclass 500): key requirements #
Official visa information: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for each CRICOS course
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the visa duration: OSHC guidance
- Genuine Student requirement (motivation, study relevance, circumstances)
- Evidence of financial capacity (tuition, travel, and living costs for you and accompanying family; check current amounts on the visa page)
- English proficiency (as required)
- Health examination and biometrics (if requested)
Work rights: Student visa holders can generally work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Always check current conditions: visa conditions.
Family: Eligible dependants may accompany you; school-aged children must be enrolled in school and you may need family OSHC.
Costs and budgeting #
- Tuition: Approx. $12,000–$22,000 per year for many VET diplomas; $20,000–$45,000+ per year for undergraduate; $22,000–$50,000+ per year for postgraduate (indicative only).
- OSHC: Varies by provider and duration; single-cover plans commonly range from several hundred to a few thousand dollars per year.
- Living costs: Use the official Study Australia estimator and city guides: cost of living.
- Financial capacity: Home Affairs publishes minimum funds required; check the latest amounts on the Student visa page.
Accommodation and arrival checklist #
- Book temporary stay (e.g., student accommodation, homestay) before arrival
- Arrange airport transfer and know your campus orientation schedule
- Set up an Australian bank account and SIM
- Review transport options and concession eligibility in your state
- Understand workplace rights: Fair Work for international students
Pathways to work and migration #
After graduation, some students explore the Temporary Graduate (subclass 485) visa to gain Australian work experience. Rules and durations are subject to change—always verify current requirements here: Temporary Graduate (485). Longer-term skilled pathways may consider occupation lists, skills assessments, and points-based criteria. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can help demonstrate competencies for study credit or skills assessment in some occupations.
How Skills Campus supports your journey #
- Personalised course and provider selection (CRICOS-registered options)
- Admission support, GTE/Genuine Student guidance, and document preparation
- RPL advisory to reduce study time and costs where applicable
- Visa lodgement support and OSHC arrangement
- Pre-departure, accommodation, and settlement guidance
Start with a tailored consultation: https://skillscampus.com.au/
Frequently asked questions #
How many hours can international students work in Australia?
Generally up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited during scheduled breaks. Conditions can change—always check official updates.
What is OSHC and why do I need it?
OSHC is mandatory health insurance for Student visa holders for the full visa duration. It helps cover medical and hospital care in Australia.
Do I need a Genuine Student statement?
You must satisfy the Genuine Student requirement with evidence that your study plans are appropriate and realistic for your circumstances.
Can I change course or provider after arriving?
Yes, in many cases—but there are rules, especially within the first six months of your principal course. Seek advice before changing.
How long does a Student visa (subclass 500) take to process?
Processing times vary by sector, country, and individual circumstances. Apply early and provide complete, accurate documentation.
Start your Australian study journey #
From course selection through visa success and arrival, Skills Campus provides end-to-end support for international students. Speak to our team today to move forward with confidence.
