Australia has become one of the most popular study destinations for international students due to its high-quality education system, globally ranked universities, and strong employment opportunities. Beyond academics, Australia offers international students the opportunity to work legally during their studies and even explore post-graduation immigration pathways.
If you are planning to study in Australia, understanding the student visa process and work rights is essential. This comprehensive guide explains how to obtain an Australian student visa and how to work legally while studying.
Why Study in Australia?
Australia is home to prestigious institutions such as University of Melbourne, Australian National University, and University of Sydney. These universities are internationally recognized for research excellence and graduate employability.
Key reasons students choose Australia include:
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Globally respected qualifications
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Multicultural and safe environment
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Strong job market for graduates
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Post-study work visa options
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High quality of life
Australia’s structured immigration system also makes it attractive for students who aim to gain permanent residency in the future.
Understanding the Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500)
To study in Australia, most international students apply for the Student Visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to:
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Stay in Australia for the duration of your course
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Work legally during your studies
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Travel in and out of Australia
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Include eligible family members
The Subclass 500 visa applies to university degrees, vocational education, English language programs, and research courses.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting a Student Visa
Step 1: Receive an Offer Letter
Before applying for a visa, you must be accepted into a registered Australian institution. Once accepted, the university issues a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). This document is mandatory for your visa application.
Step 2: Meet English Language Requirements
Most institutions require proof of English proficiency through exams such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic. Minimum score requirements vary depending on the program.
Step 3: Arrange Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
Health insurance is compulsory for international students. You must purchase Overseas Student Health Cover before submitting your visa application.
Step 4: Prepare Financial Evidence
You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover:
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Tuition fees
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Living expenses
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Travel costs
Financial requirements are assessed to ensure students can support themselves without financial hardship.
Step 5: Submit the Visa Application Online
Applications are submitted through the official immigration portal managed by Australian Department of Home Affairs.
You will need:
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Passport
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Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
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Proof of funds
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English test results
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Health insurance documentation
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Genuine Student (GS) statement
The Genuine Student requirement evaluates whether your primary purpose is to study.
Step 6: Attend Biometrics and Medical Examination
Some applicants may be required to provide biometrics or undergo medical examinations depending on their country of origin.
Step 7: Wait for Visa Decision
Processing times vary depending on the education sector and country of application. Once approved, you will receive your visa grant letter.
Working Legally While Studying in Australia
One of the biggest advantages of the Subclass 500 visa is the ability to work legally.
Work Hour Limits
International students can work:
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Up to 48 hours per fortnight during academic sessions
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Unlimited hours during official course breaks
These regulations ensure students maintain academic performance while gaining work experience.
Types of Jobs for International Students
Many students find part-time employment in sectors such as:
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Hospitality (restaurants, cafes)
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Retail
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Customer service
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Administrative support
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University campus roles
Students pursuing degrees in IT, healthcare, or engineering may also secure internships related to their field of study.
Australia’s minimum wage is among the highest globally, which allows students to earn a reasonable income while studying.
Tax and Legal Requirements
When working in Australia, students must:
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Apply for a Tax File Number (TFN)
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Follow employment laws
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Ensure employers provide legal wages
Work must comply with visa conditions. Violating work-hour limits can lead to visa cancellation.
Post-Study Work Opportunities
After completing a degree, international graduates may apply for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485).
This visa has two streams:
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Post-Study Work Stream – for graduates with higher education degrees
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Graduate Work Stream – for qualifications linked to occupations in demand
Depending on the qualification, graduates can stay and work in Australia for two to four years.
Pathways to Permanent Residency (PR)
Australia offers structured immigration pathways for skilled workers. Many international graduates transition to permanent residency through:
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Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
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Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
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Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491)
These visas operate on a points-based system that considers:
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Age
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English proficiency
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Education
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Work experience
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Occupation demand
Graduates in fields such as nursing, IT, engineering, and teaching often have stronger PR prospects due to skill shortages.
Financial Planning and Cost Overview
Studying in Australia requires financial planning.
Estimated annual costs:
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Tuition: AUD 20,000 – AUD 45,000
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Living expenses: Approximately AUD 24,000
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Health insurance: Varies by provider
Although costs can be significant, part-time work and post-study employment help offset expenses and improve return on investment.
Tips for Visa Approval Success
To increase your chances of approval:
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Provide accurate and complete documentation
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Demonstrate genuine academic intent
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Show clear career goals aligned with your chosen program
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Maintain strong financial evidence
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Apply well before course commencement
Avoid submitting false information, as Australia has strict immigration compliance policies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Applying without Confirmation of Enrolment
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Insufficient financial documentation
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Ignoring Genuine Student requirements
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Exceeding work-hour limits
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Failing to maintain health insurance
Attention to detail significantly improves approval rates.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining a student visa for Australia is a structured and transparent process when approached correctly. The Subclass 500 visa not only allows you to pursue high-quality education but also provides legal work rights and potential post-graduation immigration pathways.
With careful preparation, strong documentation, and compliance with visa conditions, studying in Australia can become a stepping stone toward global career opportunities and permanent settlement.