Doc Summary
Australia welcomes a diverse range of learners—from international students to domestic applicants, skilled professionals seeking Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), school leavers, mature-age students, and study-abroad participants. Understanding eligibility requirements, visa conditions, and the right pathway is essential to start your study journey confidently and compliantly.
At a glance: Who is eligible to study in Australia? #
- International students enrolling in CRICOS-registered courses with a valid Student visa (subclass 500)
- Australian citizens, permanent residents, and most New Zealand citizens residing in Australia (no student visa required)
- Exchange and study-abroad students admitted through partner institutions
- Student dependants (family members) meeting conditions to study part-time or full-time as permitted
- Mature-age entrants and professionals using RPL or credit transfer for VET and higher education
- Short-term learners on Visitor or Working Holiday Maker visas for permitted durations
International students: core requirements #
To study in Australia as an international student, you generally need the Student visa (subclass 500). Key criteria include:
- Offer & CoE: A formal offer and Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered provider. Search CRICOS courses at cricos.education.gov.au.
- Genuine Student Requirement (GSR): Australia applies the GSR to confirm you are a bona fide student with a suitable study plan and ties to return or onward progression. See the official guidance: homeaffairs.gov.au – Genuine Student.
- English proficiency: Provide accepted test results (e.g., IELTS, PTE). Minimums can vary by level and provider. For policy settings, visit Home Affairs – English language.
- Financial capacity: Evidence of sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and travel. Amounts change periodically; check Home Affairs – financial capacity.
- OSHC: Overseas Student Health Cover is mandatory for you (and eligible family members) for the duration of your stay. Learn more at privatehealth.gov.au.
- Academic prerequisites and genuine pathways: Meet entry requirements (e.g., Year 12 equivalent for undergraduate, bachelor’s degree for masters) and ensure your course aligns with your background and goals.
Domestic learners: citizens, permanent residents, and New Zealand citizens #
Australian citizens and permanent residents (and most New Zealand citizens residing in Australia) can study without a student visa. Eligibility depends on academic entry requirements, English readiness, and—for some providers—residency status for fee types. You may access government-supported places (where applicable), FEE-HELP/HECS-HELP, or pay full fees depending on your course and provider. Refer to official guidance via Study Australia for system overviews and student support.
Study pathways: schools, VET, higher education, English, and short courses #
- Schools (Primary & Secondary): International students may study at approved schools with a CRICOS-registered program and appropriate welfare arrangements if under 18.
- VET (Certificates I–IV, Diploma, Advanced Diploma): Practical training with direct industry relevance. RPL is often available to recognise prior skills.
- Higher Education (Undergraduate & Postgraduate): University and non-university providers offer bachelor’s, graduate certificates/diplomas, masters, and doctoral programs.
- ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students): For language preparation, direct entry, or test readiness.
- Pathway & Foundation programs: Bridging academic and language gaps for university entry.
- Short courses and micro-credentials: Select options may be open to international or domestic learners; international students must ensure CRICOS registration and visa compliance.
Special categories and conditions #
- Student dependants: Family members of student visa holders may study under specific conditions. Always confirm permitted hours and course types with Home Affairs.
- Student guardians (subclass 590): Parents/relatives can accompany under-18 students. See Student Guardian visa (590).
- Study abroad & exchange: Short-term study via institutional partnerships (usually one or two semesters) for credit back to your home institution.
- Visitor visa study: You may undertake a short course of up to 3 months on a Visitor visa. Always check current limits and conditions with Visitor visa (600).
- Working Holiday Maker (WHM): WHM visas typically allow study for up to 4 months. Confirm the latest conditions on the relevant WHM subclass page at Working Holiday Maker.
- Mature-age entry: Your work experience, prior study, or alternative entry tests (e.g., STAT) may provide a pathway to admission.
- RPL and credit transfer: Use your existing skills and experience to fast-track VET qualifications or obtain university credit. RPL can reduce time and cost, and support migration skills assessments where relevant.
Compliance essentials for international students #
- Course registration: Study must be with a CRICOS-registered provider/course for visa 500 holders.
- Enrollment load: Maintain a full-time study load unless you have approved variations.
- Attendance and progress: Meet provider requirements for satisfactory progress and attendance (where applicable).
- Work rights: Check current limits on work hours and any sector-specific settings with visa conditions.
How Skills Campus supports your study journey #
Whether you are an international applicant, a domestic learner, or a professional seeking RPL, Skills Campus provides end-to-end guidance—course selection, admissions support, RPL mapping, and visa-ready documentation. We help you align your study plan with the Genuine Student Requirement, ensure your course is CRICOS-registered (if needed), and position you for success in Australia’s education system.
Explore your options with an expert advisor at skillscampus.com.au or contact us now: skillscampus.com.au/contact.
Frequently asked questions #
Who can study in Australia? International students with a valid Student visa (subclass 500) enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course; Australian citizens and permanent residents; many New Zealand citizens in Australia; exchange and study-abroad students; and certain dependants and short-term visitors under specific conditions.
What English score is required? Requirements vary by provider and course level. Student visa policy sets minimums—always verify with Home Affairs and your institution.
How much money do I need to show? You must demonstrate sufficient funds for tuition, living expenses, and travel. Thresholds change—check financial capacity and consult your provider.
Can I study while on a Visitor or Working Holiday Maker visa? Yes, with limits (typically up to 3 months on a Visitor visa and up to 4 months on WHM). Confirm current rules on the official visa pages.
Does RPL help with study in Australia? Yes. RPL can reduce the duration and cost of VET qualifications and may support credit transfer to higher education, helping experienced professionals formalise skills.
Disclaimer: Immigration and policy settings change. Always refer to official sources and seek personalised advice before applying.
Ready to take the next step? Speak with Skills Campus today: skillscampus.com.au/contact
