Student Visa & Work Rights
INTERNATIONAL ADMISSIONS
Understanding the Australian Student Visa
International students studying in Australia must hold a valid student visa for the duration of their course. The student visa allows you to enrol in a registered course, live in Australia while studying, and work within permitted limits. Understanding your visa conditions ensures you remain compliant and focused on your studies.
Official Student visa (subclass 500) information is available on the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs website.
What the Student Visa Allows
A valid Australian student visa allows international students to:
- Enrol in a full-time CRICOS-registered course
- Live in Australia for the duration of their studies
- Travel in and out of Australia while the visa remains valid
- Work within approved visa conditions
- Include eligible family members in some cases
Students must maintain full-time enrolment and satisfactory academic progress to comply with visa requirements.
Important Visa Conditions
International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency to ensure they can successfully participate in their chosen course of study.
Applicants are generally required to provide evidence of an approved English language test result. The standard minimum requirement is:
- IELTS Academic or General – Overall score of 6.0
- No individual band score below 5.5
- Maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of your stay.
Equivalent results from other recognised English language tests may also be accepted, subject to assessment.
Applicants who have completed recognised English studies with an approved ELICOS provider or who have previously studied in English may be eligible for alternative evidence of proficiency.
English requirements may vary depending on the course selected. Applicants are encouraged to review individual course pages for any specific language prerequisites.
You can check your current visa conditions at any time using the Australian Government’s Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system.
A full list of visa conditions is available on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Work Rights for International Students
International students in Australia can work part-time while studying, which can help with living costs and provide valuable local experience. Work rights are subject to visa conditions, so it is important to understand when you can work and what obligations you must continue to meet as a student.
How Much You Can Work
International students on a student visa can generally work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session.
These work conditions generally apply once your course has commenced.
During official course breaks, students may work unlimited hours.
Work conditions can vary. Students should always check their individual visa conditions using the Australian Government’s Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system.
International students have the same workplace rights as Australian citizens. Workplace rights and minimum wage information is available from the Fair Work Ombudsman.Â
Common Part-Time Jobs for Students
Many international students find part-time work in:
- Hospitality and cafes
- Retail and customer service
- Cleaning and housekeeping
- Administration and reception support
- Tutoring and education support roles
These roles can help students build confidence, improve communication skills and gain Australian workplace experience while studying.
Need help understanding your work rights? Contact Admissions.
Applying for Your Student Visa
Once you receive confirmation of enrolment from your education provider, the next step is to apply for your student visa. Preparing accurate documentation and understanding the application process will help avoid delays and ensure a smoother transition to Australia.
Visa Application Process
To apply for a student visa, applicants generally need to:
- Receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from their chosen provider
- Create an online application through the Department of Home Affairs
- Upload required supporting documents
- Pay the relevant visa application fee
- Complete any required health examinations or biometrics
Processing times may vary depending on individual circumstances and country of origin. Applicants are encouraged to apply well in advance of their intended course commencement date.
Documents You May Need
When applying for a student visa, you may be required to provide:
- A valid passport
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
- Evidence of English language proficiency
- Financial capacity documentation
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) confirmation
- Academic transcripts and supporting qualifications
Requirements may vary depending on your nationality and personal circumstances. Always refer to official government guidance for the most up-to-date information.
Preparing for Arrival
After your student visa is approved, it is important to prepare for your arrival in Australia. Planning ahead will help you settle in smoothly and focus on your studies from the beginning of your course.
Before You Travel
Before travelling to Australia, students should:
- Confirm their enrolment and course start date
- Arrange accommodation
- Ensure Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is active
- Organise airport transfers if required
- Carry all important documents in their hand luggage
Keeping both digital and printed copies of key documents is recommended in case they are requested upon arrival.
After You Arrive
Once in Australia, students should:
- Attend orientation sessions
- Finalise enrolment and confirm class schedules
- Update contact details with their education provider
- Set up a local bank account if needed
- Familiarise themselves with local transport and community services
Early preparation and engagement with support services can make the transition to student life smoother and more enjoyable.
If you plan to work in Australia, you must apply for a Tax File Number (TFN) through the Australian Taxation Office.
Superannuation (Retirement Savings)
If you earn above the minimum threshold, your employer must contribute to your superannuation fund. Temporary residents may be eligible to claim their superannuation when permanently leaving Australia through a Departing Australia Superannuation Payment (DASP).
Eligible graduates may apply for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485), which may provide extended work rights in Australia after completing their qualification.
Official information is available from the Australian Government Department of Home Affairs.
Visa regulations may change. Students should always refer to official Australian Government sources or seek advice from a registered migration agent for personalised guidance
Need Assistance?
If you have questions about student visa conditions, work rights or the enrolment process, our admissions team is here to help.
We can guide you through entry requirements, documentation preparation and next steps so you can move forward with confidence.
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