A stepwise guide for the Australian Student Visa

by Rita Biswas Consultant

With a highly standardized education system and world-renowned universities and programs to choose from, Australia is undoubtedly, one of the best study-abroad destination for international students. Additionally, the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) framework is in place to ensure that international students have complete information on the course, before and during their study period and that the standard of teaching by the institutions is maintained.

There are certain specialized requirements for getting an Australian Visa. Here’s a step-by-step guide to Australia Study Visa Requirements:

After the university has been shortlisted, choosing the program that best suits the interests and profile of the student is to be selected.

University Application

An application must be made to the university, bearing in mind the university requirements such as academic scores, English language requirements etc., if any. Many Universities in Australia have flexible entry criteria. All universities in Australia, even the very best ones accept any one of; IELTS, TOEFL or PTE, as a measure of a student’s English proficiency. Students who are yet to appear for the proficiency test can also apply, provide that they submit their test scores afterwards.

Offer letter

Post-application, the universities revert with an offer letter if the student meets the entry requirements and is shortlisted. Details of any scholarships for which the student is eligible, are also mentioned.

Financial documents

Once the offer is received, the student must arrange for financial documents that demonstrate his capability to pay tuition fee and bear living expenses. The proof of funds must be submitted to the university for approval.

Post-approval by the university and High commission, student is required to pay the university fee and Overseas Student Health Cover as per the offer letter.

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

An Overseas Student Health Cover is an essential Student Visa Requirement for Australia. The Department of Immigration and Citizenship mandates that all student visa holders must have a valid OSHC during their stay in Australia. The OSHC policy must be renewed if the student extends the length of his student visa.

Electronic of Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE)

The eCOE (electronic Confirmation of Enrolment) is issued by the university after the student has accepted an offer and paid the deposit to secure a place at the university. It is an essential document required before applying for an Australian student visa. The eCoE contains details of the study program, including the start and end dates expected for each program, any fees paid and total fees required.

Application for the eCOE must be done to the university. The University must be satisfied over the following criteria as specified under the Australian Government’s Streamlined Student Visa Framework (SSVF);

· The applicant’s main purpose of coming to Australia on a student visa

· The student must have access to sufficient funds to cover tuition costs, health insurance, return airfares and living expenses.

· English proficiency criteria must be met

The university provides an email of COE issuance and it can be downloaded.

Health Checkup

Medical examination must be done which may include a chest x-ray and other tests as per the information recorded while creating HAP ID letter for medical check-up.

Visa Application

Visa Application must be lodged at least 6 weeks before course begins. It can be done by creating and logging on to the ImmiAccount, uploading essential documents and paying the visa application fee, which is AUD 575. The outcome will be announced by email.

Successfully obtaining a Student Visa Australia can be ensured if the above points are followed step-by-step. Documents of financial capability are of great importance and must be arranged in accordance with acceptance criteria of immigration authorities.