International students  wishing to study in Australia are required to obtain  a student visa. A student visa for Australia varies based on its subclass and number. There are different Australian student visas which vary based on the level of the course opted for. There is only one student visa Australia – Subclass 500 for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Check out the following article in detail.

Latest Updates for Student Visa Australia 2025

Check out the latest announcements, changes and improvements in student visa Australia in this section:

Latest Updates for Student Visa Australia 2025

Details & Implications for Students

Date of Announcement

Student Visa Application Charge (VAC) Increase

The student visa application fee has increased from AUD 1,600 to AUD 2,000. This initiative aims to manage international education at a sustainable level and generate revenue.

July 1, 2025

Temporary Graduate Visa Application Charge (VAC) Increase

The base application charge for a Subclass 485 (Temporary Graduate) visa increased by 15%, to AUD 2,030. 

February 1, 2025

International Student Commencement Cap

The Australian government has set a cap on international student commencements at 270,000 for 2025. This aims to control the volume of international students and manage pressures on infrastructure and housing, starting from January 1, 2025.

January 1, 2025

Genuine Student (GS) Requirement Replaces GTE

The Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement was replaced with the Genuine Student (GS) requirement for student visa applications lodged on or after March 23, 2024. The GS requirement is more targeted, assessing whether a student genuinely intends to study and comply with visa conditions.

March 23, 2024 (Effective Date – Relevant for 2025 applications)

Increased English Language Requirements

The minimum English language test scores for Students (Subclass 500) have increased. For the Student visa, the minimum IELTS score (or equivalent) increased from 5.5 to 6.0.

March 23, 2024 (Effective Date – Relevant for 2025 applications)

What is Australia Student Visa?

A Student Visa Australia is an official document issued to those who, after scrutiny, qualify as genuine students to study, live, and work in Australia. The student visa in Australia is also known as the Subclass 500 visa. This visa is applicable for both undergraduate and postgraduate applicants. The student visa for Australia is processed only when applicants have their Confirmation of Enrollment in hand (or offer letters), whether applying from within Australia or outside. The processing times vary based on the level of the course for which the student is applying for a visa. The fee for a Subclass 500 visa is the same for all applicants, regardless of the level of the course they are applying for. Check out the details about the student visa Australia below.