What the subclass 500 actually requires
The student visa (subclass 500) lets you study a full-time, CRICOS-registered course in Australia. Most refusals come down to a handful of requirements not being met cleanly, so it helps to see them as one checklist before you lodge.
1. Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
You need a CoE for a course registered on CRICOS (the official register of courses for overseas students) before you apply. The CoE confirms your acceptance into a full-time course and is the foundation of the whole application — without it, you cannot lodge.
2. The Genuine Student (GS) requirement
Since 23 March 2024 the Genuine Student requirement has replaced the old Genuine Temporary Entrant test. It asks you to show, through targeted questions in the application, that your main purpose is genuine study. It is one of the most heavily scrutinised parts of the process — we cover how to address it well in our guide to writing a strong Genuine Student statement.
3. Financial capacity
You must show genuine access to enough money for tuition, living costs and travel. The living-cost benchmark set by the Department of Home Affairs has risen in recent years, so always confirm the current figure before you lodge — and make sure your funds are genuine, stable and properly documented. We break this down in how much money you need.
4. Health cover (OSHC) and English
You must hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the full duration of your visa, and meet the English language level required for your course (commonly an IELTS band in the 5.5–6.0+ range, or an approved equivalent, with ELICOS options where needed).
5. Health, character and the application charge
You will also need to meet health and character requirements — typically a medical examination and police clearances — and pay the visa application charge, which has changed recently, so check the current amount. Choosing the right course in the first place matters too; see choosing the right course and provider.
Next steps
As authorised education and migration agents, we match you to the right course at no cost to you and prepare your subclass 500 application end to end. Book a consultation and we'll check your profile against every requirement above before you lodge.
This article is general information only and does not constitute immigration or legal advice. Please book a consultation for advice specific to your circumstances.