There are presently in excess of over 60,000 overseas students studying in Australia.
You can only be granted a student visa if you wish to undertake a registered course or part of a registered course on a full-time basis. A registered course is one offered by an Australian education provider and registered with the Australian Government to offer courses to overseas students.
DIMIA has categorized student visas in accordance with 7 identified education sectors within the Australian educational system. These categories are:
• Independent ELICOS
• Schools;
• Vocational education and training;
• Higher education;
• Masters and doctorate;
• Non-Award Foundation/Other;
• AusAID or defence.

Each of these has different requirements, but in each, DIMIA has set an “assessment level” (being level 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5) which will apply to each kind of eligible passport. In other words, different passports types will have different levels of assessment. Generally, level 5 is the most difficult to establish. Assessment levels will deal with English language proficiency for the purpose of each study course proposed; financial capacity to undertake such courses and live in Australia without contravening work limitations and other specified requirements.
Applicants must also provide evidence of adequate arrangements in Australia for health insurance during the period of their intended stay.
There are other ongoing requirements, for instance, that such visa holders attend at least 80% of the contact hours scheduled for each semester during the term of a course and that academic results are certified as at least satisfactory.

The provisions relating to student visa applications are complex. Individual assessment should be sought. We can help you throughout this process.

After you graduate:
You may consider what the current requirements are for permanency before undertaking your course. Therefore, see also: Graduate Student Visa Page
You should always seek specific advice before acting. The information provided is as a guide only. Regulations may change. Where hotlinks are made to external sites we cannot guarantee the accuracy thereof.

Student Enquiry Form