Australia Awaits! Explore Visa Categories and Application Fees for Students

Australia has long been regarded as one of the best places for overseas students to pursue their studies. The nation boasts one of the greatest higher education systems in the world, offering students a wide range of academic opportunities and internationally recognized credentials. Apart from its academic prowess, major cities including Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne were ranked among the world's top student cities. You now understand why Australia hosts thousands of students every year.

A lot of modifications to Australia's student visa regulations were recently announced. The new "Genuine Student Test" for expedited visa processing is one of these improvements, along with adjustments to the post-study work rights and a revision to the application fees for student visas.

This page is for you if you intend to study in Australia in the next academic year. To learn everything there is to know about Australia's many student visa options as well as much more, continue reading.

Types of Student Visas for Australia

When studying in Australia, selecting the right visa type is essential. Each visa type is for a distinct purpose based on the applicant’s course type, age, and future aspirations. Below is a detailed explanation of the most common student visas:

Visitor Visa (Subclass 600):

The Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) allows students to undertake short-term study courses of up to three months in Australia.

• Eligibility: Open to applicants intending to undertake short-term, non-degree courses. No formal sponsorship required.
• Duration: Valid for up to 3 months for study purposes.
• Cost: Approximately AUD 150.
• Work Rights: No work rights are granted under this visa category.

Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408):

The Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408) allows participants in specific programs, including research and community-based activities.

• Eligibility: Participants involved in structured educational programs or community-based activities are eligible.
• Duration: The visa length varies but generally lasts up to 2 years depending on the program.
• Cost: AUD 325 for the main applicant.
• Work Rights: Limited to program-related activities only.

Skilled Recognized Graduate Visa (Subclass 476):

This visa allows recent engineering graduates to gain work experience in Australia.

• Eligibility: Engineering graduates from recognized institutions, within two years of graduation, are eligible.
• Duration: Valid for up to 18 months.
• Cost: AUD 440.
• Work Rights: Full work rights during the visa period.

Research Training Program Visa:

For those enrolling in research-based postgraduate programs.

• Eligibility: Available to international students enrolled in eligible research training programs.
• Duration: Covers the entire length of the research program.
• Cost: AUD 710.
• Work Rights: Unlimited work rights related to research activities.

Document Checklist for Student Visas for Australia

To apply for a student visa for Australia, it’s essential to gather all necessary documents before starting the application process. The following is a general checklist of documents required for most student visas mentioned above:

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
• Genuine Student Statement
• Passport
• Evidence of Financial Stability
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
• English Language Proficiency Test Scores
• Academic Transcripts and Certificates
• Visa Application Form

Once all these documents are assembled, to study in Australia for international students, the application process can begin.