Student Visas
Australia offers international students some 26 000 courses delivered by more than 1200 universities, registered training organisations and schools. The three biggest sectors in terms of enrolments are universities, vocational education/ training organisations and English-language intensive courses. Australia is the preferred choice for international students from many countries and is the third most popular English-speaking study destination for these students.
Asia remains Australia’s main source of international students, with more than 75 per cent, but enrolments from the Middle East, South America and Africa have grown strongly. International students are attracted by the high standard of Australia’s education and training, its national qualifications framework, welcoming environment and diverse society.
Legislation mandates registration of every course and institution that accepts international students on student visas. Most international students are able to work part time during their stay in Australia and have their dependents with them during their study in Australia.
A foreign student can pursue any study program in Australia for less than 3 months with the help of visitor visa or working holiday visa. For longer periods, the student must apply for Australia student visa. A student can apply for an Australia student visa only after receiving letter of offer or electronic confirmation of enrolment (eCoE) from any academic or registered training organisation.
Upon graduation, students are entitled to apply for another temporary visa or even permanent residence before their current Visa expires. Otherwise when they have completed their studies, they will be required to leave Australia.
Banksia Immigration Australia will assess individual cases ensuring each client is directed to the best result. As we work on a flat fee basis, you will know exactly how much financial investment is needed from the time we start work, with no hidden surprises.
Student visa requirements
To be granted a student visa you will be required to meet the visa requirements and comply with a number of visa conditions for attendance and academic performance which come into effect after you have entered Australia. The Student Visa will list the conditions that apply specifically to you. It is important to comply with your visa conditions to avoid visa cancellation. The Student Visa has separate sub-classes for each education sector.
Common student visa requirements
To be issued a Student Visa, applicants must satisfy the Australian Government selection criteria and demonstrate:
- you are of good character
- you are of sound health
- You are able to afford the tuition fees and fund your Australian living expenses.
- you have acceptable health insurance through the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for yourself and members of your family unit accompanying you to Australia
- you have no outstanding debts to the Commonwealth of Australia, or have made arrangements acceptable to the Minister to repay such a debt Country assessment levels
Each educational sector in each country is ranked according to Australian Assessment levels. Pending your country of education, you will be assigned an assessment level. If assessed at level 1 or 2, or you are in Australia under any assessment level, an electronic confirmation of enrolment (eCoE) certificate is required before you lodge your application .
If you are assessed at level 3, 4 or 5 you will need an ‘offer of a place in a course’ letter from your Australian education provider at the time you lodge your application. Additionally, if you are at Assessment level 3 or 4 you may be required to apply for Pre-Visa Assessment.
Pre-Visa Assessment
A Pre-Visa Assessment (PVA) determines a student’s eligibility for a student visa and is necessary if their country is at Assessment Level 3 or 4. This involves obtaining a letter of offer from your chosen institution and submitting your visa application with all supporting documentation to the PVA department. If the assessment is favourable, you will be issued with a PVA approval letter to give to your education provider authorising them to issue you with an eCoE. You will be also advised to pay the tuition fees and Overseas Student’s Health Coverage Insurance (OSHC ) premium.
Student visa sub-classes
Australian Migration Legislation is complex in nature, and we have endeavoured to provide a brief outline of the key Study based Visas, please contact us directly should you require in depth information about these or other Australian Visas that is relevant to educational and training needs.
Sublass 570 – Independent ELICOS Sector
For international students undertaking ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) as a stand-alone course, and not as a prerequisite to commencing another course (for example, a degree course)
Subclass 572 – Vocational education and training (VET) sector
For international students seeking to attain a Certificate I, II, III and IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma.
Subclass 573 – Higher education sector
For international students seeking to attain a Bachelor degree, Graduate certificate, and Graduate diploma
Subclass 574 – Masters and doctorate sector
For international students seeking to attain a Masters degree by coursework or by research, and a Doctoral degree
Subclass 575
For international students seeking to attend a Non-award foundation studies/other sector – covers foundation, bridging or other courses that do not lead to the award of a degree, diploma or other formal award
To ensure your case is managed without application errors, misunderstandings or confusion contact Banksia Immigration Australia today to expedite your Australian Visa
