Visa Information

There are several classes of student visas for Australia - the one you need depends on the type of study (eg: English language course, graduate degree, vocational training,higher education, etc.) you are planning to undertake.

Student visa options

Below is the list of the student visas currently available. For more detail on each visa, visit the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) (opens in a new window):

Independent ELICOS (Subclass 570).
Schools (Subclass 571).
Vocational Education and Training (Subclass 572).
Higher Education (Subclass 573).
Postgraduate Research (Subclass 574).
Non-award (Subclass 575).
Foreign Affairs or Defence (Subclass 576).
Other visa options

For shorter periods of study, you can apply for a Visitor or Working Holiday Maker Visa. There is also a visa option specifically for student guardians.

Visitor Visa (Subclasses 600, 601, 651)

Maximum 3 months study.
Intention to visit Australia is genuine.
Meet health and character requirements.
Sufficient money to support yourself during stay in Australia.
Read more about Visitor Visas (opens in a new window) on the DIBP website.

Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417)

Maximum 4 months study.
Aged 18 to 30 years and hold an eligible passport.
Principal purpose to holiday in Australia.
Enter or remain in Australia as a genuine visitor.
Meet health and character requirements.
Sufficient funds for airfares and personal support for stay in Australia.
Read more about Working Holiday Visas (opens in a new window) on the DIBP website.

Student Guardian (Subclass 580)

Provides for certain persons to reside with a student in Australia, where the student requires a guardian, ie: the studnet is under 18 years of age.
Study up to 3 months or study ELICOS for 20 hours per week for duration of visa.
Meet Genuine Temporary Entrant requirement.
Sufficient funds for airfares and living costs.
Meet health and character requirements.
Acceptable health insurance.
Read more about Student Guardian visas (opens in a new window) on the DIBP website.

Visa options and requirements are sometimes subject to change. In order to stay up to date, the best place to get accurate information is on the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (opens in a new window) website. The website provides comprehensive information on the types of visas available for different levels of study in Australia, including people considering bring family members with them (whether guardians, partners/spouses or children). You will also have access to help and advice about your specific visa requirements.

Another option is to contact an education agent, who can help with your visa application, course application, and answer any other questions.