Doc Summary
Planning to study in Australia as an international student? This concise, step-by-step guide outlines how to choose the right course, meet entry and English requirements, secure your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), apply for the Student visa (subclass 500), and settle into life in Australia. Use this as your roadmap—and reach out to Skills Campus for tailored advice and support.
Quick steps to study in Australia #
- Choose a CRICOS-registered course and provider.
- Meet academic and English requirements.
- Prepare documents and apply for admission to receive your CoE.
- Purchase OSHC and lodge your Student visa (subclass 500) application.
- Arrange accommodation, finances, and arrival.
- Comply with visa conditions and make the most of student life.
Choose a CRICOS-registered course and provider #
Select programs approved for international students on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). Verify your course and provider here: CRICOS register. Reviewing the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) helps you understand levels (Certificate to Doctorate): AQF.
For discovery, scholarship information, and official guidance, explore Study Australia.
Understand entry and English proficiency requirements #
- Academic background: Check specific prerequisites for your level (VET, undergraduate, postgraduate).
- English tests: Most providers accept IELTS Academic, PTE Academic, or TOEFL iBT. Confirm minimum scores with your institution and with Home Affairs visa requirements. See IELTS and PTE Academic.
- Genuine Student requirement: You must show you’re a genuine student with a clear study plan aligned to your background and goals. See the Student visa overview: Student visa (subclass 500).
Budget for tuition, living costs, and OSHC #
Tuition varies by course and provider. You must also demonstrate sufficient funds for living costs and travel as part of your visa application. Review typical student expenses here: living costs.
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of your stay. Compare options via this official overview: OSHC.
Apply to your chosen institution #
Prepare and submit:
- Passport bio page
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- English test results (if required)
- Statement of purpose/Personal statement (supporting your Genuine Student position)
- CV and references (for certain programs)
If accepted, you’ll receive an offer letter. After accepting and paying the required deposit, the provider issues your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)—a key document for your visa application.
Apply for the Student visa (subclass 500) #
With your CoE and OSHC, lodge your visa through the Department of Home Affairs: Student visa 500. You’ll typically need to provide:
- CoE for each course
- OSHC policy details
- Evidence of funds and financial capacity
- English proficiency (where applicable)
- Passport and identity documents
- Statement and evidence addressing the Genuine Student requirement
- Health examinations and biometrics (if requested)
Work conditions: As at 2025, student visa holders can generally work up to 48 hours per fortnight when their course is in session, and full-time during scheduled breaks. Confirm current settings with Home Affairs before you apply.
Plan your accommodation and arrival #
- Options: On-campus residences, homestay, or private rentals
- Transport: Most major cities have integrated public transport—consider student concessions where available
- Finances: Set up an Australian bank account and understand typical living expenses
For day-to-day life, safety, and settling in, consult the government’s official guides: Study Australia.
Know your rights and obligations #
- Maintain enrolment, satisfactory course progress, and attendance.
- Keep your OSHC active for your entire stay.
- Notify your provider of address changes within the required timeframe.
- Comply with work limits and understand Australian workplace laws: Fair Work.
Pathways after graduation #
Depending on your qualification and eligibility, you may consider the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) for post-study work experience: Temporary Graduate 485. Requirements and durations can change—always check current policy before planning.
How Skills Campus supports your journey #
Skills Campus provides end-to-end support for international students, including:
- Course and provider selection across CRICOS-listed options
- Application packaging and documentation for a stronger Genuine Student case
- English test guidance and test-date planning
- OSHC and accommodation guidance
- Visa application preparation for Student visa 500
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) to convert your experience into Australian qualifications where applicable
- Pathway and post-study strategy (including Temporary Graduate 485 planning)
Start your study-in-Australia plan with personalised, expert advice. Speak with our team today.
Ready to take the next step? #
Contact Skills Campus for tailored guidance on courses, admissions, and your Student visa pathway. We’re here to help you succeed in Australia.
