Student Visas

People who wish to study in Australia and who are not Australian permanent residents, citizens or who do not hold a visa permitting study in Australia will require a Student Visa for this purpose.

Australia has a reputation for having some of the world's leading education institutions. Australian student visa consists seven subclasses (570 to 576), each representing one "education sector". In addition the Student Guardian Visa is available in order for a parent or guardian to accompany a student and to provide support and accommodation for the student.

Independent ELICOS Sector

Subclass 570 visas are for students studying a registered English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students.

Schools Sector

Subclass 571 visas are for students studying at a registered primary, secondary school or Secondary Exchange program.

Vocational Education and Training Sector

Subclass 572 visas are for students studying registered Certificates I, II, III or IV (other than ELICOS), Diplomas, Advanced Diplomas, Certificates, Advanced Certificates, Associate Diplomas and Vocational Graduate Certificate or Vocational Graduate Diplomas.

Higher Education Sector

Subclass 573 visas are for students studying for a registered Bachelor Degree, Graduate Certificates, Graduate Diploma, Associate Degree or a Masters by Coursework.

Postgraduate Research Sector

Subclass 574 visas are for students studying for a registered Masters by Research or Doctoral Degree.

Non-Award Sector

Subclass 575 visas are for students studying a registered full-time course other than ELICOS that will not lead to an Australian award.

AusAID or Defence Sector

Subclass 576 visas are for students sponsored by AusAID or Defence, mainly for students participating in the research of Australian projects.

Student Guardian

Subclass 580 visas are for people who are the adult relative of a student in Australia who wish to be in Australia in order to provide appropriate care and support and welfare arrangements to the student during their study, in most cases the student must be under 18 years of age.