Student Visa Australia Cost 2026
A breakdown of Subclass 500 fees, living costs, and total budget
The Subclass 500 Student Visa is Australia's main visa for international students. The total cost of studying in Australia goes well beyond the visa application fee — tuition, health insurance, living expenses, and other charges add up. This guide breaks down each cost so you can budget accurately.
Visa application charge
The Department of Home Affairs charges a non-refundable visa application fee paid at the time of lodgement through ImmiAccount.
| Applicant | Amount (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Main applicant | $1,600 |
| Additional applicant (18 or over) | $1,190 |
| Additional applicant (under 18) | $405 |
Source: Department of Home Affairs. Fees are indexed annually (typically 1 July). Verify the current rate at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before lodging.
Biometric collection fee
Some nationalities are required to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) as part of the visa application. The biometric collection fee is currently AUD $45. Not all applicants are required to provide biometrics — check the Department's guidance for your nationality.
Health examination
All student visa applicants must undergo a health examination by a panel physician approved by the Department. The cost varies by country and provider but is typically AUD $300–$500. This is paid directly to the panel physician, not to the Department.
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
OSHC is mandatory for all Subclass 500 visa holders. It must cover the full duration of your visa. You must arrange OSHC through an approved provider before your visa can be granted.
| Cover type | Approximate annual cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Single | $500–$700 |
| Couple | $1,200–$1,500 |
| Family | $1,800–$2,500 |
Approved providers include Medibank, Bupa, Allianz, NIB, and others. Prices vary — compare before purchasing.
Tuition fees
Tuition varies enormously depending on the institution and course. Indicative annual ranges:
| Course type | Annual tuition (AUD) |
|---|---|
| VET / TAFE certificate or diploma | $6,000–$22,000 |
| Undergraduate degree (university) | $20,000–$45,000 |
| Postgraduate degree (university) | $22,000–$50,000 |
| English language course (ELICOS) | $300–$500 per week |
Tuition is paid directly to the education provider, not to the Department of Home Affairs.
Living cost requirement
The Department of Home Affairs requires evidence that you can support yourself financially in Australia. The current minimum living cost requirement is:
- Student: AUD $29,710 per year
- Partner/spouse: AUD $10,394 per year (additional)
- Child: AUD $4,449 per year (additional per child)
These figures are indexed and may change. The Department accepts bank statements, government-sponsored student evidence, loan documents, or scholarship evidence. Funds must generally be genuinely available — the Department can verify the source.
Total cost estimate — first year
A rough first-year budget for a single student studying a VET diploma:
| Cost | Amount (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Visa application | $1,600 |
| Health examination | $400 |
| OSHC (1 year) | $600 |
| Tuition (VET diploma) | $12,000 |
| Living costs (12 months) | $29,710 |
| Return airfare (estimated) | $1,500 |
| Approximate total | ~$45,810 |
This is an estimate only. Actual costs depend on the course, institution, location, lifestyle, and whether you have dependants. University degrees will be significantly higher.
The Genuine Student requirement
Since 2024, the Department assesses whether applicants are genuine students (replacing the previous Genuine Temporary Entrant test). This is not a cost, but it directly affects whether your application will be approved. Your personal statement must explain why you chose this course, this institution, and Australia — and how it fits your career plans. A poorly prepared statement is one of the most common reasons student visa applications are refused.
For more on the 407 training pathway as an alternative to study, see our 407 Training Visa guide.
Work rights on a student visa
Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks. Work rights and hour limits are subject to change — confirm the current conditions at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an Australian student visa cost in 2026?
The base Department of Home Affairs application charge for a Subclass 500 Student Visa is AUD $1,600 for the main applicant (as of 1 July 2025). Additional costs include OSHC, biometrics, health checks, and the genuine student requirement evidence. Total first-year costs typically range from $25,000 to $55,000 including tuition.
Do I need to show proof of funds for a student visa?
Yes. You must demonstrate access to funds covering 12 months of tuition, 12 months of living costs (currently AUD $29,710/year), return airfare, and school costs for any dependants. The Department accepts bank statements, loans, scholarships, or government funding as evidence.
What is OSHC and how much does it cost?
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory health insurance for student visa holders. Costs range from AUD $500 to $700 per year for a single person, depending on the provider. OSHC must cover the entire duration of your visa.
Is the student visa fee refundable if my application is refused?
No. The Department of Home Affairs visa application charge is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of the application.
Can I pay the student visa fee in instalments?
No. The visa application charge must be paid in full at the time of lodgement. It is paid online through ImmiAccount.
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Book Consultation →This page contains general information only and does not constitute migration advice. Fees and requirements are subject to change. Verify all figures with the Department of Home Affairs before making financial commitments. Migration advice is provided by Keshab Chapagain (MARN 1576536) only after a paid consultation under section 43 of the Migration Agents Code of Conduct.