Study in Australia: Most Asked Questions Answered for 2026

Student Visa FAQs

1. What visa do I need to study in Australia?

You need a Subclass 500 Student Visa. It allows you to study at a CRICOS-registered institution in Australia and work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study sessions.

2. How do I apply for an Australian student visa?

Apply online through the Department of Home Affairs ImmiAccount portal. You'll need a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your institution, evidence of sufficient funds, OSHC, English proficiency results, and a Genuine Student statement (replacing the Genuine Temporary Entrant requirement in late 2023).

3. How long does the student visa take to process?

Processing times vary. Most straightforward applications are decided within 4–6 weeks, but complex cases (especially those requiring further documentation) can take 8–12 weeks. 

4. How much money do I need to show for an Australian student visa?

You must demonstrate access to AUD $24,505 per year for living costs (as of 2025), plus your full annual tuition fees, and AUD $8,574 for an accompanying partner and AUD $3,670 for each child. 

5. Can my family come with me on a student visa?

Yes. Your spouse or de facto partner and dependent children can apply for a Subclass 500 secondary visa. 

Costs and Scholarships FAQs

6. How much does it cost to study in Australia?

Tuition ranges from AUD $20,000–$45,000 per year for undergraduate and postgraduate programs, and AUD $8,000–$18,000 for VET/diploma courses. 

7. Are there scholarships for international students in Australia?

Yes. Major scholarships include the Australia Awards (government-funded, for developing countries), Destination Australia Scholarships (for regional study), and university merit scholarships (typically 10–25% tuition reduction). Gemini's scholarship guide covers the top options and application timelines. 

8. Can I get an education loan for studying in Australia?

Yes. Indian banks, including SBI, Punjab National Bank, Axis Bank, and HDFC Credila, offer education loans for overseas study. 

Work Rights FAQs

9. Can international students work in Australia?

Yes. Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study sessions and unlimited hours during official holiday periods. This is one of the most generous student work allowances in the world.

10. What is the minimum wage in Australia in 2026?

The National Minimum Wage is AUD $24.10 per hour for permanent part-time employees. Casual employees receive an additional 25% loading, bringing the casual minimum to approximately $30.13/hour. 

11. Do I need a Tax File Number (TFN) to work in Australia?

Yes. Apply for a TFN through the ATO website immediately after arriving. Without a TFN, your employer will withhold tax at the maximum rate (47%). The TFN application is free.

Courses and Universities FAQs

12. What are the best universities in Australia for international students?

The Group of Eight (Go8) universities are the most prestigious: University of Melbourne, ANU, University of Sydney, UNSW, Monash, UQ, UWA, and University of Adelaide. 

13. What are the most popular courses for international students in Australia?

IT, Nursing, Engineering, Business/MBA, and Education are consistently the top-enrolled fields. These also tend to have the strongest PR pathways. 

14. Can I change my course after arriving in Australia?

Yes, but you must notify your institution and ensure your visa conditions still allow the new course. If you change to a different CRICOS provider, you may need a new CoE. 

15. What is the difference between TAFE and university in Australia?

TAFE (Technical and Further Education) provides vocational qualifications (Certificate III to Advanced Diploma), while universities offer bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. TAFE programs are shorter, more practical, and often less expensive.

Permanent Residency FAQs

16. Can I get PR after studying in Australia?

Yes, many international graduates do. The typical pathway is: complete a degree in a shortage occupation field → apply for Subclass 485 post-study work visa → gain Australian work experience → lodge EOI via SkillSelect for Subclass 189 (independent) or 190/491 (state-nominated). 

17. Which courses give the best chance of PR in Australia?

Nursing, IT, Engineering, Social Work, Early Childhood Education, and Aged Care are among the strongest PR pathway fields because their occupations appear on the MLTSSL. 

18. How long after studying can I apply for PR?

There is no fixed timeline. Most graduates need 2–3 years of post-study work experience to accumulate sufficient points. Gemini's migration agents can provide a personalised PR timeline assessment.

19. What is the points score needed for Subclass 189?

Currently, most competitive EOIs in high-demand occupations receive invitations at 80–90 points. 

Pre-Arrival and Lifestyle FAQs

20. Is Australia safe for international students?

Australia consistently ranks among the world's safest countries. It has a multicultural society, strong anti-discrimination laws, and well-funded international student support services at all major universities. 

21. What is the cost of living in Australia for a student?

Budget AUD $20,000–$30,000 per year for living expenses in major cities, covering rent (shared accommodation), food, transport, utilities, and personal expenses. Costs are lower in Adelaide, Hobart, and regional cities. Sydney and Melbourne are 20–30% more expensive than the national average. 

22. Do I need OSHC if I already have travel insurance?

Yes. OSHC is a mandatory visa condition for all international students travel insurance does not substitute for OSHC. You cannot receive your CoE or student visa without current OSHC covering the full visa period. 

23. How do I open a bank account in Australia?

Most major Australian banks allow international students to open an account before arriving in Australia using their online or app process. You'll need your passport and Confirmation of Enrolment. 

24. What is the best city in Australia to study as an international student?

Melbourne is consistently ranked the world's most liveable city and has the largest international student population in Australia. 

Application Process FAQs

25. When should I start my application to study in Australia?

Start at least 6–9 months before your intended course start date. Australian universities have intakes in February (Semester 1) and July (Semester 2), with applications closing 1–3 months before. Factor in time for document preparation, English testing, and visa processing.

26. What documents do I need to apply to an Australian university?

You will need academic transcripts and certificates, English proficiency results, a statement of purpose, CV/resume, two academic or professional references, a passport copy, and for some programs, a portfolio or work samples. Gemini provides a personalised document checklist for each application.

27. How can Gemini Education help with my application?

Gemini support in course and university shortlisting, application preparation, document review, visa assistance (by our registered migration agents), pre-arrival support, and post-arrival help with banking, OSHC, and accommodation. Our Mumbai BKC office offers face-to-face consultations for Indian students.