Overview
The Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows international students to study in Australia for the duration of their enrolled course. As a Nepali student, you apply online through ImmiAccount after receiving a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your Australian institution.
Eligibility Requirements
- GSE (Genuine Student Entrant): You must demonstrate genuine intention to study in Australia. This replaced the GTE requirement from 2024.
- Enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course: Your course must be registered on CRICOS.
- English language proficiency: IELTS 5.5+ or PTE Academic 42+ (varies by institution and course).
- Proof of funds: Sufficient funds to cover tuition + living expenses + travel for yourself and any dependants.
- Health insurance: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory.
- Health and character requirements: Chest X-ray, police clearance may be required.
Step-by-Step Application Process
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Choose a university and course | Check CRICOS registration, course intake dates |
| 2 | Apply to the university | Submit academic transcripts, English scores, SOP |
| 3 | Receive offer letter | Conditional or unconditional |
| 4 | Pay tuition deposit (or GIC) | GIC: AUD 24,505 (approx. NPR 21.6 lakh at current rates) |
| 5 | Receive Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) | Issued once deposit is paid |
| 6 | Book and complete English test | IELTS or PTE must meet course requirement |
| 7 | Create ImmiAccount and apply online | Visa application fee: AUD 710 |
| 8 | Submit biometrics (if required) | At VFS or Australian Embassy |
| 9 | Receive visa grant | Processing time: 4–10 weeks |
Documents Required
- Valid passport (at least 6 months validity beyond intended stay)
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from the university
- Genuine Studentship (GS) statement: written explanation of why you are studying in Australia
- English test results (IELTS or PTE)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Proof of funds: bank statements, GIC certificate, sponsor letter
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) policy
- Birth certificate
- Passport-size photos
- Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) from Nepal Police
- Medical examination results (if required)
Proof of Funds , How Much Do You Need?
The Australian government requires evidence that you can cover:
- Tuition fees: Usually shown via CoE + payment receipt
- Living costs: AUD 29,710 per year (current 2026 requirement)
- GIC (Genuine Investment in Education): AUD 24,505 deposited in a participating Australian bank before visa grant
- Travel costs: Approx. AUD 2,000
The GIC is released to the student upon arrival in Australia in instalments. It is not a fee; the money is yours.
English Language Requirements
| Test | Minimum for Most Courses | Minimum for Nursing/Teaching |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | 5.5 overall (no band below 5.0) | 7.0 overall (no band below 7.0) |
| PTE Academic | 42 overall | 65 overall |
Individual university requirements may be higher. Always check the specific course page on the university website.
Common Reasons for Refusal
- Weak GS statement , fails to demonstrate genuine student intention
- Insufficient proof of funds
- English test score below the required minimum
- Previous visa refusals not disclosed
- Gaps in education not explained
- Applying for a course inconsistent with prior qualifications
A well-written GS statement is critical. Use finduni.ai's GS Statement Helper to draft yours with AI assistance.
Visa Processing Time from Nepal
Processing time varied from 4 to 10 weeks in 2025–26. Apply at least 3 months before your course start date to allow buffer time. Check the Australian Department of Home Affairs for current processing estimates.