Studying in Australia is an exciting opportunity, but understanding the student visa requirements is vital to ensure a successful application. We’re addressing some common questions about what you can study, work limitations, bringing family members to Australia, and more.
What can I study on a Student visa in Australia?
A Student visa allows you to pursue a wide range of courses, including:
- Higher education (bachelor’s, master’s, PhD)
- Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses
- English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS)
- Primary and secondary school education
- Foundation studies and pathway programs
Can I take an online course for my Student visa?
No, you cannot take ‘online-only’ courses. To qualify for a Student visa, you must attend face-to-face classes. However, certain percentage of your course content can be delivered online.
Can I being my family?
Yes, you can include your immediate family members in your student visa application. This includes:
- Your partner (spouse or de facto partner)
- Your child or your partner’s dependent child
How long can I stay in Australia?
Your Student visa allows you to stay in Australia for the duration of your course, with a maximum period of five years. You can also travel in and out of Australia during your visa validity.
How many hours can I work?
- You can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session.
- Students undertaking a Master’s by research or Doctoral degree have no work hour restrictions.
Student visa conditions
Your student visa comes with several important conditions that you must comply with:
- Notify your education provider of your residential address within seven days of arrival in Australia.
- Maintain course requirements, including enrolment, satisfactory attendance and academic progression.
- Maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your stay.
- Do not overstay your visa period in Australia.
- If you are already in Australia, you can apply for a student visa – unless you hold these visas; Visitor visa, Temporary Graduate visa or Maritime Crew visa.
- Students already holding a student visa in Australia can apply for an additional student visa to continue further studies.
What if I cannot complete my studies within my visa period?
If you need more time to complete your studies, you can apply for a new student visa while onshore to extend your stay.
Disclaimer – Content in these articles does not constitute immigration or legal advice, it is not intended as a substitute for such advice and must not be relied upon as such. This material is designed to provide informative guidelines for general informational purposes only. The information provide is accurate during the time of publication. Please consult with our Australian MARN registered agents via our content forms on our website or call on 1800 567 663 to make an appointment.
MARN – 2217877 / 1068715
