Can I Study in Australia on a Bridging Visa? Rights, Rules and Practical Steps

Yes—many people can study in Australia on a bridging visa, but it depends on the specific conditions attached to your visa. If your bridging visa has a study-restriction condition (for example, Condition 8201: maximum three months study, or Condition 8115: no study), you will be limited or prevented from studying. You must check your individual visa conditions in VEVO and, if needed, request a change before enrolling.

What Is a Bridging Visa and Which Type Do You Hold? #

Bridging visas allow you to remain in Australia lawfully while another visa application is being processed. The most common types are:

• Bridging Visa A (BVA – Subclass 010): Usually granted when you apply for a new visa onshore. It often carries similar conditions to your last substantive visa. Learn more: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/bridging-visa-a-010
• Bridging Visa B (BVB – Subclass 020): Similar to a BVA but with limited travel permission. Details: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/bridging-visa-b-020
• Bridging Visa C (BVC – Subclass 030): Granted in certain situations if you did not hold a substantive visa at the time of application. Conditions are set case-by-case and may limit work or study. See: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/bridging-visa-c-030

Study Conditions to Check on Your Bridging Visa #

Your right to study hinges on the conditions attached to your bridging visa. Common study-related conditions include:

• Condition 8201 – Maximum three months study: You can study or train for up to three months in total.
• Condition 8115 – No study or training: You must not engage in any study or training.
• Condition 8202 (Student visa compliance): Becomes relevant once a Student (subclass 500) visa is granted; it sets attendance and progress requirements.

Always confirm your personal conditions in VEVO (Visa Entitlement Verification Online): https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/already-have-a-visa/check-visa-details-and-conditions. A full list of visa conditions is here: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/already-have-a-visa/visa-conditions.

Can You Start or Continue a Course While Awaiting a Student Visa? #

If you have applied onshore for a Student (subclass 500) and hold a bridging visa without study restrictions, you may commence study while your student visa is being processed, subject to your education provider’s policies. Check the student visa framework: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/student-500.

Important points:

• Your bridging visa must permit study. If Condition 8201 or 8115 applies, you must not enrol beyond the permitted limit (or at all).
• Provider acceptance: Many providers require a valid COE and may accept enrolment on a bridging visa that allows study. Ensure the provider is CRICOS-registered: https://cricos.education.gov.au/.
• Health cover: If you’re an international student, maintain OSHC as needed: https://www.privatehealth.gov.au/health_insurance/overseas/overseas_student_health_cover.htm.

How to Confirm or Change Your Study Permission #

1. Check VEVO: Confirm your current study conditions: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/already-have-a-visa/check-visa-details-and-conditions.
2. If restricted, request a change: In limited circumstances, you may ask the Department of Home Affairs to vary bridging visa conditions (for example, using Form 1005). See the form here: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/form-listing/forms/1005.pdf. Approval is discretionary.
3. Seek tailored advice: Conditions and eligibility can be complex. Consider professional guidance before you enrol or pay tuition.

Note: Changing conditions is not guaranteed. Decisions are case-by-case and depend on your circumstances and the visa you’ve applied for.

Enrolment, Insurance and Compliance Essentials #

• Course choice: Choose CRICOS-registered courses and providers.
• Study load and timing: Confirm with your provider whether you can start while on a bridging visa and what evidence they require.
• Attend and progress: Once your Student (subclass 500) is granted, you must meet Condition 8202 (attendance and satisfactory course progress).
• Stay insured: Maintain OSHC for the entire period you study in Australia as required by your visa or provider.

Common Scenarios #

• On a BVA after applying for Student (500): If no study restriction applies, you can usually commence study pending the decision.
• On a BVA/BVB that inherited Visitor (600) conditions: You may have Condition 8201 (max three months study). Longer courses may not be permitted until conditions change or the student visa is granted.
• On a BVC: Conditions are often stricter (for example, no work). Study may be limited or disallowed—check VEVO and seek advice.

How Skills Campus Can Help #

• Course and visa pathway mapping: We align your goals with compliant study options while you’re on a bridging visa.
• RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning): Convert your experience into nationally recognised qualifications to shorten study time and costs.
• Admissions support: COE guidance, documentation, and provider liaison.
• Compliance checks: We help you understand your visa conditions and refer you for migration advice where appropriate.

Next Steps #

This article provides general information only. Always verify your personal conditions with the Department of Home Affairs and your education provider before enrolling.

For personalised guidance on studying in Australia on a bridging visa, course selection, or RPL, contact Skills Campus. Visit https://skillscampus.com.au/ or speak with our team today: https://skillscampus.com.au/contact.