Australia Student Visa Application Process 2026

Applying for an Australian student visa can feel overwhelming, especially with recent policy updates, new financial thresholds, and the shift from the GTE to the GS requirement. This guide breaks the entire process into clear, actionable steps so you know exactly what to do and when.

Gemini Education & Migration's registered migration agents support you at every stage, from choosing your course to receiving your visa grant notification.

Before You Begin: Timeline Planning

Step 1: Choose a CRICOS-Registered Course and Institution

Your student visa journey starts with your course choice. Not all Australian courses qualify for the Subclass 500; your course must be registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). Courses at universities, TAFEs, private colleges, and registered schools are eligible.

• Research courses that align with your academic background and career goals

• Check that the institution is CRICOS-registered

• Confirm entry requirements: academic qualifications, English scores, and any prerequisites

• Consider how your course connects to your post-study 485 visa and PR pathway

Gemini helps you shortlist institutions, understand entry requirements, and submit a strong application.

Step 2: Receive Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

Once you have been accepted and paid the required deposit, your institution will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). This is the single most important document in your student visa application. From January 2025, only a CoE, not a Letter of Offer, is accepted for onshore student visa applications.

Step 3: Gather Your Supporting Documents

Use the following checklist to prepare your full document set:

• Valid passport (covers your intended stay plus buffer)

• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

• Genuine Student (GS) statement (completed during the ImmiAccount application)

• Bank statements or financial evidence, minimum AUD 29,710 per year plus tuition

• English language test results (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, OET, or Cambridge) not older than 3 years

• Academic transcripts and certificates from previous qualifications

• OSHC policy documents

• Passport-size photographs

• Police clearance certificates (from each country of residence for 12+ months since age 16)

• Health Applicant Portal (HAP) ID is received after booking your medical examination

Step 4: Book and Complete Your Health Examination

Book your health examination at an Australian Government-approved panel physician clinic. You will receive a Health Applicant Portal (HAP) ID once your appointment is registered; include this in your visa application.

• Book early; clinic waiting times can be 2–4 weeks in peak season

• The HAP ID links your medical results directly to your ImmiAccount

• Chest X-rays may be required depending on your country of origin

Step 5: Create Your ImmiAccount and Lodge the Application

ImmiAccount is the Australian Government's online visa portal. To apply:

1. Go to immi.homeaffairs.gov.au and create your ImmiAccount.

2. Select 'New Application' and choose the Student Visa (Subclass 500).

3. Complete all sections of the application form, including your personal details, travel history, and study plans.

4. Answer the four Genuine Student (GS) questions (150 words maximum each).

5. Upload all supporting documents as clear, colour scans (PDF preferred).

6. Pay the application fee: AUD 2,000 for the primary applicant (from July 2025). Additional fees apply for dependants.

7. Submit your application and note your transaction reference number.

Step 6: Await Processing and Respond to Any Requests

After submission, the Department of Home Affairs will assess your application. Processing times vary significantly by nationality and time of year. During this period:

• Monitor your ImmiAccount inbox for requests for additional information

• Respond to any 'further information requests' within the timeframe given

• Do not travel without checking your visa conditions if you currently hold a bridging visa

• Contact Gemini's team immediately if you receive a notice of Intention to Refuse (NOIR)

Step 7: Receive Your Visa Grant Notification

Upon approval, you will receive a visa grant notification in your ImmiAccount. It will contain:

• Your visa grant number

• Visa start and expiry dates

• Your visa conditions (e.g., Condition 8105, work entitlements; Condition 8202, course progress)

• Details for any secondary applicants (dependents)

Step 8: Prepare for Arrival in Australia

• Book your flights to arrive 1–2 weeks before your course starts

• Arrange accommodation (Gemini's post-arrival team can assist)

• Open an Australian bank account before or shortly after arrival

• Register with Medicare (if eligible) or ensure your OSHC is active

• Attend your institution's orientation and register your arrival with the international student office

Common Reasons for Visa Refusal and How to Avoid Them