Applying for a student visa can feel challenging. The rules keep evolving, the required documents pile up, and missing one detail can delay your dream of studying in Australia.

If you’re an Indian student asking yourself how to apply for Australia student visa from India, this step-by-step guide is for you. Here, we’ll walk through the entire Australia visa process: from preparing your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), meeting the new Genuine Student (GS) requirement, creating your ImmiAccount, proving financial capacity, to arranging health insurance.

This guide also highlights the latest 2025 policy updates, estimated costs, timelines, and checklists to make the visa application steps smooth and stress-free.

How to apply for Australia student visa from India?

Apply for a Subclass 500 visa online via ImmiAccount once you receive your CoE. Prepare English test scores, meet the GS requirement, arrange OSHC, show financial capacity, upload documents, pay the fee, and complete biometrics/health checks if required. Processing times vary by case.

Visa Pathway at a Glance

Here’s a simple view of the Australia visa process:

Step-by-Step: Visa Application Steps (Subclass 500)

Step 1 — Secure Offer & Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

To start the visa application steps, you must first accept your university offer and pay the deposit. The university then issues a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). This is your official ticket to apply for the visa. Without it, you cannot begin the process.

Step 2 — Create Your ImmiAccount

All visa applications are lodged online via ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website. Creating your account generates a Transaction Reference Number (TRN), which you’ll use for all communication. Enable notifications and check both email and portal regularly.

Step 3 — Meet the Genuine Student (GS) Requirement

From 23 March 2024, GS replaced the old GTE requirement. In your visa form, you’ll answer specific GS questions covering your study intent, financial readiness, and future plans. Keep answers consistent with your supporting documents. Generic or vague answers can hurt your application.

Step 4 — English Proficiency & Accepted Tests

Submit scores from approved English tests such as IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or OET. In August 2025, Australia expanded the list of accepted tests. Always check both your university’s requirements and Home Affairs for the latest updates.

Step 5 — OSHC: Overseas Student Health Cover

You must hold OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) for the duration of your course. This can be purchased through your university or directly from insurers. Your policy number is required in the visa form. Without OSHC, your visa cannot be approved.

Step 6 — Financial Capacity (Proof of Funds)

You need to show evidence that you can cover living costs, tuition, and travel.

Universities often guide you with practical figures. Ensure funds are in your name or a close sponsor’s, with valid bank statements.

Step 7 — Documents Checklist & Upload

Prepare all documents in PDF format and upload them to ImmiAccount:

✅ Passport (valid)
✅ CoE
✅ English test score report
✅ GS responses and evidence
✅ OSHC policy
✅ Financial documents
✅ Academic transcripts
✅ SOP & LORs
✅ Form 157A (if required)

Step 8 — Pay Visa Charge & Biometrics/Health

The base visa fee is shown dynamically when you lodge online (typically around AUD 710). You may also be asked for biometrics or a health examination. Follow instructions sent via ImmiAccount promptly.

Step 9 — Track Application & Respond to s56 Requests

Once lodged, track progress in ImmiAccount. If Home Affairs requests further information (called an s56 request), respond quickly to avoid delays.

Requirements & Documents

✅ Identity: Passport, photos
✅ Enrolment: CoE, offer letter
✅ English: IELTS/PTE/TOEFL/OET scores
✅ GS: Written responses, supporting docs
✅ Financial capacity: Bank statements, sponsor letters
✅ OSHC: Policy certificate
✅ Academic: Marksheets, transcripts, certificates
✅ Dependants: Marriage/birth certificates (if applying)

Dependants apply as “subsequent entrants” under Subclass 500.

Costs & Timelines

Typical Costs

Timelines

⚠️ Note: Timelines vary by intake season, university risk rating, and completeness of documents.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

❌ Submitting inconsistent GS answers vs documents
✅ Keep all statements aligned with evidence

❌ Insufficient proof of funds
✅ Show clear, accessible bank records

❌ Missing OSHC dates
✅ Ensure coverage matches course length

❌ Late response to ImmiAccount requests
✅ Check your account/email daily

❌ Referring to old GTE requirement
✅ Always use updated GS terminology

What’s New in 2025 (Policy Changes Students Should Know)

• GS replaced GTE: Since March 2024, all student visa applicants must meet GS requirements.
  
• Expanded English test list: From August 2025, more providers are accepted, giving students more flexibility.
  
• Updated financial capacity: Calculations are now pegged to minimum wage, ensuring applicants show realistic funds.
  

People Also Ask 

What is the first step to apply for an Australia student visa from India?

Start by accepting your offer and obtaining your CoE. Then, create an ImmiAccount to lodge a Subclass 500 visa application with your documents, GS responses, funds proof, OSHC, and English test scores.

What replaced the GTE requirement in Australia?

From 23 March 2024, the Genuine Student (GS) requirement replaced the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE). GS requires applicants to answer targeted questions and provide documents proving genuine study intent.

How much money is required for an Australia student visa?

You must show funds for at least one year of living costs (around AUD 24,000), plus tuition and travel. Universities may specify amounts, but always confirm with Home Affairs before applying.

Do I need OSHC to apply?

Yes. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the entire course duration. Your policy details must be provided during the visa application.

Where do I apply online?

All applications are submitted via ImmiAccount, the official Department of Home Affairs portal. It’s used for lodging, uploading documents, and tracking your application status.

FAQs 

Which visa subclass is for international students?

The Subclass 500 visa allows full-time study at a registered provider in Australia. Dependants can apply as subsequent entrants under the same visa category.

Can I work while studying?

Yes. Student visas permit limited work rights per fortnight while you study full-time. Always check the current limit before planning your hours, as policies can change.

How do I prove English proficiency?

Provide results from approved tests such as IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, or OET. From August 2025, additional test providers are also accepted.

Do I need health checks or biometrics?

Some applicants are asked for health exams and biometrics after lodging. You’ll receive instructions via your ImmiAccount.

Can I change courses or providers after visa grant?

Yes, but it can affect your visa conditions and GS assessment. Always consult your provider and check Home Affairs rules before switching.

Conclusion

The best way to study in Australia without stress is to follow the official visa application steps carefully. Prepare early, answer the Genuine Student (GS) questions thoroughly, and submit strong documents through ImmiAccount.

If you’re wondering how to apply for Australia student visa from India, the process is clear: plan ahead, meet requirements, and stay updated with 2025 rules. ✅

👉 Take action today: Book a free consultation, or leave your questions in the comments – we’d love to help you achieve your Australian study dream.