How can international students study at university in Australia?
Australia has 9 universities in the global top 100, according to the QS World University Rankings 2026, with the University of Melbourne ranked 19th worldwide. For an international student, that figure has practical weight: an Australian degree is recognised with credibility in labour markets in the United Kingdom, Canada, Europe and much of Asia.
Reaching enrolment, however, requires planning that goes well beyond simply choosing a degree. Visa, financial proof, English level and work permission are variables that affect both the approval process and the real cost of the experience. This article explains how each piece works.
What is the Subclass 500 student visa?
The Student Visa Subclass 500 is the authorisation issued by the Australian Department of Home Affairs for international students enrolled in institutions registered under the CRICOS system. Without it, it is not possible to study full-time in Australia.
The core requirements for approval are:
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) issued by the educational institution
- Financial evidence of AUD 29,710 to cover annual living expenses, as required by the Australian Home Affairs
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) taken out for the full duration of the course
- Minimum IELTS of 6.0 overall for standard undergraduate programmes
- Application fee of AUD 2,000
Since July 2024, the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement has been replaced by the Genuine Student (GS) requirement. The student answers specific questions, with a 150-word limit each, explaining their motivation for the course and how it connects with their career trajectory.
Deadline and processing:
The Australian student visa has conditions that vary depending on the course level and country of origin. The average processing time ranges from 7 days to 3 months. Planning ahead is not optional.
How many hours can a university student work?
Subclass 500 holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic term, according to the Australian Home Affairs. During regular academic holidays, there is no limit on working hours.
There are two relevant exceptions:
- Research masters and doctoral degrees: no hour restrictions during any period of the year
- Work in positions registered as essential: specific rules may apply depending on the sector
This work permission changes the financial calculation of the whole project.
The minimum wage in Australia in 2026 allows students to cover a significant part of living costs while working within the legal limit, without relying entirely on external savings.
What level of English do Australian universities require?
The English proficiency requirement varies by course and institution. For standard undergraduate programmes, the main benchmarks are:
IELTS Academic
Typical minimum score: 6.0 overall, with 6.0 in each component.
TOEFL iBT
Typical minimum score: 60 to 79 points.
PTE Academic
Typical minimum score: 50 to 58 points.
Cambridge C1 Advanced
Typical minimum score: 169 to 176 points.
Health, law and education programmes typically require IELTS 6.5 or 7.0, with a minimum band per component. Those who have not yet reached that mark can complete an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) programme before entering university, and many institutions accept this as a pathway to enrolment.
The score can be improved before enrolment through preparatory programmes: the English exchange route in Australia follows this same preparatory path before university entry.
Which cities offer the most university options?
The city chosen affects not only which universities are available, but also the cost of living, part-time employment opportunities and the campus atmosphere.
Melbourne
The largest university hub in the country. Rankings according to QS World University Rankings 2026.
Sydney
The largest city, with the highest cost of living. Home to the most internationally recognised universities.
Canberra
Campus focused on research and public policy.
Brisbane
Rapid growth, dynamic university environment.
Perth
Lower cost of living, mining and technology market.
The best cities to study in Australia differ in student housing, transport and available part-time employment sectors.
How do undergraduate and postgraduate programmes work in Australia?
The Australian university system follows the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), which standardises qualification levels across the country. The main levels for international students are:
- Bachelor's degree: 3 years for general programmes; 4 years for engineering, architecture and education
- Graduate Certificate / Diploma: 6 months to 1 year, short postgraduate qualification
- Master's degree (coursework): 1 to 2 years
- Doctoral degree (PhD): typically 3 to 4 years, with unlimited work permission
Most universities have two main intakes: February and July.
Understanding the Australian education system makes it easier to compare it with the system in the home country. It also helps identify whether a qualification equivalence is needed before enrolment.
Integrated planning: visa, degree and work
The study and work in Australia 2026 plan integrates the three planning pillars into a single pathway: visa, degree and labour market.
See what the daily routine looks like for students in long-term programmes, including arriving on the Gold Coast: ILSC Education Group — studying in Australia in practice.
What is the pathway from university to permanent residency?
Completing a university degree in Australia opens pathways to remain in the country legally after graduation. The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) allows graduates to work for 2 to 4 years after graduation, depending on the level and field of study.
For permanent residency, the Australian points system considers:
- Field of study aligned with shortage occupations
- Work experience acquired in the country
- Demonstrated English proficiency
Nursing, IT, engineering and special education have a more direct alignment with the Skilled Independent (subclass 189) and Skilled Nominated (subclass 190) skills visas.
An international career in Australia begins at the point of choosing the degree, not after graduation. The study and work in Australia programme organises every stage of this journey, from the visa to permanent residency.
Frequently asked questions about studying at university in Australia as an international student
What financial proof is required for the student visa in Australia?
The Australian Home Affairs requires demonstrating access to AUD 29,710 per year to cover the student's living expenses. When there is a dependent spouse, the additional amount is AUD 10,394; for each child, AUD 4,449. Accepted documentation includes bank statements, institutional sponsorship or a scholarship.
Is an Australian degree recognised internationally?
Yes. The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is aligned with international qualification frameworks. Australian universities, especially those in the Group of Eight (Go8), are highly regarded in labour markets in the United Kingdom, Canada, Europe and Asia. Postgraduate programmes at Go8 institutions are comparable to equivalent programmes in the United Kingdom.
What documents are required to apply for the Subclass 500 visa?
Required documents include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the institution, financial evidence, OSHC cover, a valid passport, an English proficiency test result and responses to the Genuine Student requirement. Some applicants also need a medical examination, depending on their country of origin and the duration of the course.
Can I study two degrees at the same time in Australia?
It is possible to enrol in a double degree programme, which combines two courses in a single structure and typically lasts 4 to 5 years. In this format, the student receives two degrees upon completion. The Subclass 500 visa is issued for the total duration of the combined programme.
What happens to the visa if the student needs to suspend their studies?
The student must notify the educational institution, which informs the Home Affairs. Temporary suspension may be accepted in cases of serious illness or documented emergency. Abandoning the course without formal notification can result in visa cancellation. In any situation, it is advisable to consult a registered immigration adviser.
Be Easy: boutique study abroad consultancy
Be Easy supports those who want to build a university pathway in Australia with real structure: from mapping the right degree and city to support with the visa, OSHC and arrival in the country. If you are planning an undergraduate or postgraduate degree, we have the right curation to structure every stage of the project with a dedicated senior consultant for your case. To understand the available options and take the next step with confidence, get in touch with us.
