The Iglu Guide | Blog
10 tips for a great student visa application
Home to some of the world’s best universities with a fantastic climate to match, it’s no wonder Australia is a popular study destination. If you’re thinking about applying for a Subclass 500 Visa, give yourself a head start with this simple checklist.
1. Meet the requirements
Having everything ready upfront is the quickest route to Visa approval. This includes proof of English language competency, financial stability and a record of academic achievement. Officials will also want reassurance that you are a genuine temporary entrant (GTE) and intend to return home when your study is complete. For students that have been impacted by Covid-19, there are flexible measures in place to help with bridging visas and fee waivers where circumstances meet the conditions. Check here for eligibility.
2. Is your institution CRICOS registered?
The institution you have selected for study must be legally registered as an education provider for overseas students. This listing provision is known as the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). If your institution does not feature on the list, your visa application will be invalid.
3. Are you using the correct application procedure?
Make sure you are taking the steps required by your individual institution. Some require entry specifically via an agent, whereas others are happy with direct applications. If in doubt, contact them directly for guidance.
4. Is your course eligible?
Overseas student visas require that courses run for a minimum of 3 months and fall into a specific level of education. Evidence must be provided that the course is considered as full time.
5. Have you received your CoE?
Before applying for your visa, ensure that you have completed your course enrolment and have received a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). This will be needed for your visa application as proof of acceptance onto your course.
6. Get health cover
Your visa requires that you meet specific health requirements which may require a health check-up prior to arrival. You’ll also be required to obtain Overseas Student Health Cover for the duration of your studies. This is available from a list of approved Australian providers. Find out if Covid-19 has impacted your entry requirements.
7. Get ready for immi
Have everything ready and on hand before you apply so you can log in to your immi account and fulfil the application in one sitting. Store digital copies as well as photocopies so that you always have access to what you might need. Check everything is ready and you have all the documentation you need.
8. Nail your interview
Reassure yourself by knowing your application thoroughly and be prepared to answer any questions. They could range from why you want to study in Australia, about the particular course you have selected, how you will manage financially and what you plan to do afterwards. Have a few practise runs at it with friends or family so that on the day you are confident and relaxed.
9. Is there sufficient room in your passport?
Although the visa itself will only take up one page, you will need at least 4-6 blank pages otherwise you may be required to renew the passport before the visa can be approved. This will further delay the process as well as adding to the expense.
10. Allow as much time as possible
Visa administrative procedures are unpredictable at best, and if the visa is not approved on time you will not be able to start your course. Covid-19 means there is a backlog of applications to process, so allow as much time as possible to account for any delays.
And now relax! You have done everything you can in the application process. As you wait for the outcome, it’s a good time to start thinking about where you will live. Check out our advice on what to look for in student accommodation, or learn more about our Iglu locations in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.
Photo by Adolfo Félix on Unsplash
