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Student Visa Options for Australia
Whether you’re pursuing higher education or vocational training in Australia, understanding the visa options and application process is crucial. Below are the various subclasses of student visas available for students from Pakistan.
1. Types of Student Visas
- Subclass 500: For full-time courses
- Subclass 590: For vocational education and training
- Subclass 407: Training Visa
2. Subclass 500 Student Visa
The Subclass 500 visa allows international students to undertake full-time courses of study in Australia.
3. Requirements for Subclass 500 Student Visa
- Apply at least 8 weeks before the course starts.
- Acceptance into a course of study.
- Tuition fees
- Living expenses (A$24,505)
- Health Insurance
- Traveling cost
- Passport
- Recent photograph and biometrics
- Student Visa Application Form
- Confirmation Letter of Enrollment (COE)
- Parental consent (if applicable)
- Civil documents
- Character requirements
- Employment history
- English language proficiency
- Health and character requirements
4. Confirmation of Enrollment (COE)
A COE is an admission letter from Australian institutions. It must be submitted before your visa is granted.
5. Gaps in Studies
One-year gaps after intermediate or bachelor’s are acceptable. Longer gaps after a master’s may be acceptable depending on career goals.
6. Dependent Applicants
- Children: Must generally be under 18.
- Spouses: No specific age limit.
7. IELTS Requirements
- Diploma: IELTS 5.5
- Foundation: IELTS 5.5
- Undergraduate: IELTS 6.0
- Graduate: IELTS 6.0-6.5
8. Admission Process
- Fill and sign the admission form
- Provide admission requirements
- Pay application and registration fees
- Receive admission offer
- Pay one-semester tuition fee to receive COE
9. Apply for a Student Visa
Visa Fee: A$650
10. Student Visa Validity
A student visa in Australia is typically valid for up to 5 years, depending on the duration of the course. Extensions may be available in specific cases.
11. Student Visa Processing Time
The usual processing time for higher education visas is about 4 months. However, it may take anywhere from 3 months to a year based on your study purpose.
12. Staying in Australia After Visa Expiration
If you wish to stay longer, consider options like:
- Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)
- Skilled Recognition Graduate Visa (Subclass 476)
13. Work Rights with a Student Visa
- Work up to 40 hours every 2 weeks during the course.
- You can start working when your course begins.
14. English Language Requirements
| Language Test | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 5.5 |
| TOEFL (iBT) | 46 |
| Cambridge Advanced Certificate | 162 |
| PTE Academic | 42 |
| Occupational English Test (OET) | B for each component |
15. Permanent Residency
Students cannot gain permanent residency directly with a student visa. Additional pathways must be explored.
