To study in Australia, international students typically need to follow these visa procedures:
Choose a course and institution: Select a recognized Australian institution and an eligible course that matches your academic goals and qualifications. Ensure that the institution is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).
Confirm eligibility: Check the specific eligibility requirements for the student visa category you are applying for. The most common visa for students is the Subclass 500 Student Visa.
Offer of enrollment: Obtain an offer of enrollment from the chosen institution. The institution will provide you with a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE), which is necessary for your visa application.
Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement: Demonstrate that you genuinely intend to stay in Australia temporarily for the purpose of studying by providing a personal statement explaining your intentions.
Financial requirements: Show proof of sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees, living expenses, and any dependent family members accompanying you to Australia. The exact amount required may vary depending on your circumstances and the location of the institution.
Health insurance: Purchase Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) to cover your health insurance for the duration of your stay in Australia.
English language proficiency: Provide evidence of your English language proficiency by taking an approved English language test such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic, unless exempt.
Visa application: Complete the online visa application form through the Department of Home Affairs website (www.homeaffairs.gov.au). Prepare the required documents, including your CoE, passport, financial evidence, health insurance, and English language test results.
Biometric data: Depending on your country of residence, you may need to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) at a Visa Application Center.
Visa application fee: Pay the visa application fee. The fee amount varies depending on the visa subclass and the applicant’s age.
Decision and notification: After your application is processed, you will receive a decision on your visa application. If approved, you will receive a visa grant letter or an electronic visa grant notification.
Arrival and registration: Once you arrive in Australia, you must complete any necessary arrival procedures and register with your institution as required.