Australia Student Visa 2027 for School and University

Student Visa for School and University

Many people think the Australia student visa is only for university, but that is not true. The Australia Student Visa 500 covers eligible school students aged 6 and older, as well as students heading to college or university. It lets you live and study in Australia for the duration of your course, for up to six years depending on your course. Once your course starts, you can usually work up to 48 hours every two weeks while classes are in session, with unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Beyond a world-class education, this visa can be your first step toward working in Australia after you graduate.

How to Get a School Student Visa

First, choose a school that accepts international students and send your application, either directly or through an education agent. Once the school accepts you, you pay the deposit and receive a Confirmation of Enrolment, the official letter proving your place. Next, you must arrange a responsible adult to care for you, such as a parent or relative on a Student Guardian visa, or care approved by the school. Then buy Overseas Student Health Cover and gather proof that your family can pay for living costs and school fees. School students usually do not need an English test, so the final step is applying for the visa online and waiting for the decision. Keep in mind that a parent on the Student Guardian visa generally cannot work, so the family should budget carefully.

How to Get a University Student Visa

Your first step is taking an approved English test, because most universities ask for your score before they accept you. With your test result and your high school or university documents, apply to your chosen course and wait for an offer letter. After you accept the offer and pay the deposit, the university sends you a Confirmation of Enrolment. Then buy Overseas Student Health Cover and prepare your financial documents. You must prove you have at least 29,710 Australian dollars for one year of living costs, plus your first year of tuition and travel. Next, apply for the visa online and answer the Genuine Student questions about why you want to study in Australia. Depending on your country, you may also need to give fingerprints and a photo at a visa centre and do a medical exam, and then you receive your visa decision.

Waiting Time, Costs and Best Time to Apply

Most Australian universities have two main intakes: the first semester starts around late February or March, and the second around July. It is smart to start planning 6 to 12 months ahead, since getting an offer and preparing documents takes time. From 1 July 2026, the visa application fee is 2,500 Australian dollars for the main applicant. Waiting times change often, but many decisions arrive within a few weeks to a few months. Applying early, with complete and honest documents, is the best way to avoid delays and start your course on time.

Work and Residence After Graduation

After finishing a bachelor’s, master’s or doctorate in Australia, you may apply for the Temporary Graduate visa, subclass 485. It usually lets you stay and work in any job for two to three years, depending on your degree, if you are 35 or younger. This time is valuable, because Australian work experience and an Australian degree can both add points for skilled permanent visas. Many graduates then apply for the Skilled Independent Visa 189, the Skilled Nominated Visa 190, or the regional Skilled Work Regional Visa 491. Others find an employer who sponsors them, which can also lead to permanent residence.

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