How to do a study abroad in Australia in 2026: step by step to travel this year

Australia remains one of the most sought-after destinations for those who want to combine English studies, real-world life experience, and genuine access to the international job market. Those planning a study abroad experience in Australia in 2026 have solid reasons to do so: the Australian minimum wage is the highest in the world among the main exchange destinations, the quality of education is globally recognised, and the student visa allows legal work throughout the programme.

But turning that desire into a booked flight requires a clear roadmap. This guide walks you through every step to close your project by the end of 2026, from programme selection to arrival at your destination.

‍

Where to start: how do you choose the right programme for your profile?

Before any paperwork, the first decision is the type of programme. Australia offers different paths depending on your stage of life and what you want to build through your exchange experience.

Those who want to improve their English quickly while working on the side usually opt for language courses in major cities. Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane have the highest concentration of partner schools and offer an active job market for international students.

Those seeking technical or professional training can access Certificate and Diploma programmes, which open doors to post-study work visas. Those with a long-term career plan in Australia may also consider an undergraduate degree or a university pathway programme, which combines intensive English with direct entry to an Australian university.

For those still deciding, Be Easy's Estudar e Trabalhar na Austrália programme brings together the most in-demand options with personalised guidance throughout the entire process. The Australia landing page details each option with destination, duration, and ideal profile.

‍

What visa do I need to study in Australia in 2026?

The Australian student visa is subclass 500 and is the central document for any long-term exchange in the country. In 2026, the process underwent relevant updates.

The main change was Ministerial Direction 115 (MD 115), in effect since November 2025. It replaced the previous directive and reinforced the "Genuine Student" criterion: applicants must clearly and documentedly demonstrate why they chose to study in Australia, how the course fits their life goals, and what their academic or professional background looks like. The more coherent that narrative, the faster the approval tends to be.

The fundamental requirements for the student visa subclass 500 are:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months after the end of the course
• COE (Confirmation of Enrolment), issued by the Australian institution after enrolment
• OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), the mandatory health insurance for international students
• Financial evidence compatible with the duration of the programme
• A well-structured Genuine Student Declaration

The application is fully digital via the ImmiAccount portal and typically takes less than 30 days when documentation is complete. The visa allows up to 24 hours of work per fortnight during term time and full-time work during holidays.

‍

What is the step-by-step to close the exchange by 2026?

The process has stages that depend on one another. Following the correct order avoids delays and rework.

Step 1: Define the programme and city. The choice of course, school, and destination within Australia directly affects the cost of living, the local job market, and the chances of extending the visa afterwards. Sydney and Melbourne have more job openings; Brisbane and Adelaide offer a lower cost of living with equivalent quality.

Step 2: Enrol and receive the COE. Without the Confirmation of Enrolment, the visa process cannot move forward. Enrolment at Be Easy partner schools can be completed with support from the senior consultant, who accompanies the student from course selection through to receiving the COE.

Step 3: Take out OSHC. Health insurance must be purchased before applying for the visa. Government-authorised providers offer plans with different durations and coverage options.

Step 4: Apply for the visa. With the COE and OSHC in hand, the student creates an ImmiAccount and submits the application with supporting documents: proof of financial resources, academic or professional history, and the Genuine Student Declaration.

Step 5: Plan accommodation and arrival. Australia has a competitive housing market in major cities. Starting the search for accommodation before arrival is essential. Many partner schools offer support in recommending homestays or student residences for the first few months.

‍

Can the student work during the exchange in Australia?

Yes, and this is one of the destination's greatest advantages. The student visa subclass 500 allows paid work during the programme. The Australian minimum wage in 2026 is the highest among the most sought-after exchange destinations, which means that even a few work shifts per week have a real impact on the student's budget.

The sectors that hire the most international students are hospitality, retail, logistics, and customer service. Students with intermediate or advanced English gain faster access to better-paid positions.

For a complete overview of work opportunities during the exchange, the article on international students working in Australia covers the visa rules and most accessible sectors. The article on the professions Australia needs most in 2026 shows where the vacancies are by area.

‍

How far in advance do I need to start planning?

For those who want to travel by the end of 2026, planning three to four months in advance is sufficient in most cases, taking into account visa processing, document preparation, and arrival logistics.

Those with flexible dates can take advantage of intake groups starting in August and October, which still have spots available in the main programmes. Those aiming for the first semester of 2027 can start planning now with more time and a better selection of courses and cities.

The cost of living in Australia varies considerably by city. Melbourne and Sydney are the most expensive; Adelaide and Perth tend to be 15% to 25% cheaper for accommodation. Planning with a Be Easy senior consultant makes it possible to identify the combination of city, course, and cost that best matches the student's budget and goals.

For those comparing destinations before deciding, the article Germany vs Australia: which destination suits you best? presents both paths clearly.

‍

What are the most popular destinations within Australia for exchange students?

Australia offers options for different profiles within the same country.

Sydney is the most sought-after city for those who want an intense urban experience, a dynamic job market, and an active social life. It is also the most expensive. The article Study Abroad in Sydney 2026 details the cost of living and available programmes.

Melbourne is the top choice for those who value culture, diversity, and quality of life. It has one of the most active job markets for international students and is a reference for high-quality education. The article Study Abroad in Melbourne 2026 provides the complete city guide.

Brisbane and Gold Coast are increasingly popular choices for those seeking quality of life at a lower cost with a warmer climate. They are especially popular among those who combine English learning with an outdoor lifestyle.

For those weighing their decision between cities, the article on the student visa and what it really allows in 2026 is important supplementary reading before making a final choice.

‍

FAQ

Do I need to know English to do an exchange in Australia?
Not necessarily to get started. Many language programmes accept students from beginner level, with classes organised by proficiency. The level required depends on the type of programme chosen, with technical and university courses requiring a more advanced level of English.

What is the minimum wage in Australia in 2026?
The Australian minimum wage was adjusted to AUD 24.95 per hour in July 2025, with a new increase expected in July 2026 by the Fair Work Commission. It is one of the highest in the world among exchange destinations.

How long does it take to have an Australian student visa approved?
Processing through ImmiAccount takes an average of less than 30 days when documentation is complete and the Genuine Student Declaration is well-structured. During peak periods, it can take 6 to 8 weeks.

Can I extend my visa if I want to stay longer?
Yes. Students who complete Certificate IV courses or above have access to post-study work visas (Graduate Visa), which allow them to remain for up to 4 years depending on the qualification and the city where they studied.

Does Be Easy help with the visa process?
Yes. Be Easy's senior consultant accompanies the student from programme selection through to arrival at the destination, including guidance on documentation, enrolment, OSHC, and preparation of the Genuine Student Declaration.

‍

Be Easy

Closing a study abroad programme in Australia safely requires more than choosing a school: it means understanding the visa, assembling the right documentation, and planning each stage with someone who knows the process. Be Easy accompanies you from programme selection all the way to your arrival in Australia, with a dedicated senior consultant and full support at every stage of your project.

Get in touch with us to receive specialist senior consultancy!