Australia Study Visa Fees: Tips, Apply, Requirements in 2025

Planning to study in Australia in 2024? Well, we are here to help you answer the question of why you should study in Australia. Among the first steps toward realising your dream is understanding the Australia study visa fees. Recent changes in visa regulations and fee structures have made it even more critical to be aware of all the developments. This comprehensive guide will outline updated fee details, new rules for student visas, and practical strategies to manage expenses. Whether you are budgeting for your application or finding means to reduce costs, this blog contains all the essential information to ensure that the process runs smoothly.

Latest Facts and News

• Visa Fee Increase: The Australian student visa fee increased from AUD 710 (38347.66 INR) to AUD 1,600 (86417.26 INR) as of July 2024, marking a 125% hike.

• Financial Challenges: This fee increase poses financial challenges for international students, particularly those from India.

• Visa Processing Times: The processing time for student visas varies but is generally around 53 days.

• Living Expenses: Students must demonstrate financial capacity to cover living expenses of at least AUD 29,710 annually.

• English Proficiency Requirements: Stricter English language requirements have been implemented, with minimum IELTS scores now at 6.09.

• Genuine Student Requirement: A new Genuine Student (GS) requirement has replaced the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) rule 9.

• Post-Study Work Rights: Temporary Graduate visas now allow shorter stays, affecting post-study work opportunities.

Australia Study Visa Fees for Indian Students

Understanding the Australia study visa fees is crucial for Indian students planning to study in Australia. Here's a breakdown of the current fees and additional charges:

• Base Visa Fee: AUD 1,600 as of July 2024.

• Dependent Charges: Additional fees apply for spouses and children.

• Biometrics Fee: Varies depending on the visa centre.

• Medical Exam Costs: Mandatory and location-dependent.

• Age-Based Variations: Certain charges may differ for minors or older applicants.

Check the latest updates to ensure accurate budgeting for your visa application.

Also Read: How to write an Australia Tourist Visa Invitation Letter?

Australian Student Visa New Rules

The Australian government implemented major student visa regulation changes in 2024:

• Australia Study Visa Fees: Australia study visa fees increased from AUD 710 (38347.66 INR) to AUD 1,600 (86417.26 INR) in July 2024.

• True Student Requirement: Replaces the GTE rule, focusing on the intention to study and maintain fiscal soundness.

• Toughest English Proficiency Requirement: The minimum IELTS score requirement is now set at 6.0.

• Evidence of Funds: Evidence of funds to cover AUD 29,710 (1604660.57 INR) per year for living expenses.

• Post-Study Work Impact: The Temporary Graduate visa was reduced in length, curtailing post-study work opportunities.

How to Apply for an Australian Student Visa?

Follow these steps to apply for your Australian student visa:

• Enroll in a Course: Get your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered institution.

• Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet Genuine Student (GS) and financial requirements.

• Gather Documents: Prepare your CoE, passport, IELTS/PTE scores, OSHC, and financial proof.

• Apply Online: Create an ImmiAccount, complete the application, and pay the Australia study visa fee of AUD 1,600 (86417.26 INR)

• Health Check & Biometrics: Complete mandatory medical exams and submit biometrics if required.

• Wait for Approval: Monitor your application and respond to additional requests.

After applying, you should know that your Australia study visa will take time to process. But keep in mind the points given above, as this streamlined process ensures a smooth path to studying in Australia.

Managing Financial Requirements for Australia Study Visa

When applying for an Australian student visa, you should meet financial requirements. What you should prepare are the following:

• Proof of Funds: You will be able to show your financial capacity to pay for tuition, living costs AUD 29,710 annually (1604660.57 INR), and travel costs.

• Bank Statements: Provide current statements that show you or your sponsor have enough money in your account.

• Scholarships: If you have scholarships that cover tuition or living expenses, submit these documents.

• Living Expenses in Australia: Budget for accommodation, food, transport, and health insurance according to Australia's standards.

• Overheads: Take into consideration study visa fees in Australia, Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), etc.

• Sponsorship Documents: Evidence that the family or sponsors sponsor your study.

Proper financial planning strengthens your application and gives you enough time to prepare for your Australia study visa fees.

Also Read: Work Sponsorship Visa Australia: Types, Eligibility & More

Tips for Reducing Visa Costs for Australia Study Visa

Managing expenses is crucial for international students who want to minimize costs associated with Australia study visa fees and other expenses. Here are some practical and factual tips:

• Apply Early: Avoid last-minute applications to avoid delays or expedited processing fees.

• Check Fee Waivers: Some Australian universities or programs may offer fee waivers or discounted application fees for eligible students.

• Bundle Applications: If travelling with dependents, apply together to save on individual processing fees.

• Seek Scholarships: Seek scholarship opportunities that can help to pay tuition, living expenses, or even visa fees and other charges.

• Choose Budget-Friendly Health Insurance: Compare different OSHC providers and find a more affordable plan that meets the visa requirements.

• Choose a Cost-Effective Institution: Choose a more affordable institution with lower tuition fees.

• Complete Documents: Ensure your application is complete and accurate to avoid re-submission fees.

• Solicitation of Local Sponsorship: Obtain funding from a local or regional sponsorship fund accessible to international students in most Australian states.

• Compare your currency exchange rates: Using providers that offer the lowest exchange rates will save you cash on international transactions.

• Following Government Updates: Keep track of any short-term discount or change in the government's policy on Australia study visa fees.

Proper planning and smart financial decisions can help you save much money during the visa application process and beyond.

Also Read: Australia PR Process: Step-by-Step Guide for Skilled Migrants

Conclusion

Navigating Australia study visa fees can be challenging, especially with recent increases and changing regulations. This article has outlined essential aspects, including updated fee structures, application processes, new rules, and tips to manage financial requirements effectively. Planning your finances carefully and staying informed can significantly ease your journey toward studying in Australia.

At TerraTern, we are committed to guiding international students with accurate, up-to-date information and practical tips to make your study abroad dreams a reality. We have more articles that can guide you through the Australia study visa process, too. Start planning today and take the first step toward your academic goals in Australia!