Understanding the Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500)
Scholarship recipients planning to study in Australia must apply for the Student Visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows you to live, study, and work part-time in Australia while enrolled in a full-time course. For international students funded through scholarships, this visa is the primary legal document that enables entry and stay in the country throughout the duration of your academic program. Subclass 500 supports both undergraduate and postgraduate students and can also accommodate dependents under certain conditions.
Eligibility Criteria for Visa Applicants on Scholarship
To qualify for an Australian student visa as a scholarship recipient, you must meet specific eligibility requirements. These include:
- Holding a valid Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) from an Australian education provider
- Providing evidence of your scholarship award, covering tuition, living expenses, and travel if applicable
- Meeting English language proficiency requirements (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, PTE)
- Demonstrating Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) intent
- Holding overseas student health cover (OSHC)
- Providing proof of sufficient funds if the scholarship doesn’t cover all expenses
- Meeting character and health requirements
Your sponsoring institution or government agency often helps with documentation, making the process more streamlined compared to self-funded applicants.
Documents Required for Student Visa Application
A complete and accurate document set is essential for a successful visa application. Scholarship recipients need to provide:
- A valid passport
- Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE)
- Scholarship letter or certificate clearly indicating the benefits and duration
- GTE statement explaining your genuine intention to study temporarily
- Proof of English proficiency
- OSHC certificate
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Financial documents (if scholarship is partial)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Completed Form 157A (student visa application form)
- Proof of payment of the visa application fee (unless waived by the scholarship provider)
Make sure all documents are translated into English and certified if originally issued in another language.
How to Apply for the Student Visa as a Scholarship Holder
The application process for the Australian student visa is conducted online through the ImmiAccount portal provided by the Department of Home Affairs. Follow these steps:
- Create an ImmiAccount: Visit immi.homeaffairs.gov.au and register
- Complete Form 157A: Fill in your application form with personal, academic, and visa-related details
- Upload Required Documents: Ensure all supporting documents, including the scholarship letter, are correctly submitted
- Pay the Visa Fee: If applicable, some fully funded scholarships cover this fee
- Schedule Medical Exams: If required, you will be instructed to attend an authorized medical facility
- Submit the Application: Finalize and track your application online
The processing time generally ranges from 3 to 8 weeks, depending on your country of origin and the accuracy of your application.
What Is the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement?
The GTE requirement is a written statement that assures the Australian Government of your intention to stay in the country temporarily. Scholarship recipients must clearly articulate how the chosen course aligns with their career goals, how they plan to use the education in their home country, and why they chose Australia over other destinations. Emphasize how your scholarship supports your educational ambitions and how you intend to return home after your studies, unless offered a legitimate pathway to permanent residency.
What Is Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)?
Every student visa applicant must obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of their stay. It ensures access to basic healthcare in Australia. If you’re on a fully funded scholarship, your provider may arrange and pay for this cover. However, if not, you’ll need to purchase it yourself from approved providers like Allianz, Bupa, Medibank, NIB, or AHM. OSHC must begin on or before the date you arrive in Australia and last until the end of your visa.
Can You Work on a Student Visa as a Scholarship Holder?
Yes, student visa holders in Australia are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight (two-week period) while studying and full-time during course breaks. However, if your scholarship prohibits or limits part-time work, you must adhere to those guidelines. Working part-time allows students to gain local experience and cover minor personal expenses. Violating work restrictions may lead to visa cancellation, so always check with your scholarship terms and visa conditions.
Visa Conditions Specific to Scholarship Recipients
Some scholarships come with additional visa conditions or institutional obligations. These might include:
- Restricted course changes without sponsor approval
- Maintaining academic performance
- Reporting travel or change of address
- Refraining from certain types of work or internships
- Returning to home country upon course completion if bonded
Failing to comply can lead to scholarship cancellation or visa termination.
How Long Is the Student Visa Valid For?
The validity of your Student Visa (Subclass 500) depends on the length of your academic program. For courses:
- 10 months or longer, ending in November/December, the visa is usually valid until March 15 of the following year
- Less than 10 months, the visa is generally valid for one month after the course ends
Scholarship recipients whose funding extends beyond this duration must reapply or seek an extension.
What If Your Visa Application Gets Rejected?
In rare cases, student visa applications can be refused due to missing documents, failure to meet health/character requirements, or unclear GTE statements. Scholarship recipients can:
- Request a review or appeal through the Administrative Appeals Tribunal
- Reapply with improved documentation
- Seek help from their scholarship provider or university
Prevention is better than cure—double-check all forms, fulfill every requirement, and submit early.
Can Your Family Join You in Australia?
Yes, you can include dependents (partner and/or children) in your student visa application. However, you must show additional financial capability and provide school enrollment documents for school-aged children. Some scholarships also provide allowances for dependents, but not all. Check your scholarship package or consult with your sponsor for clarity.
Tips for a Successful Visa Application as a Scholarship Winner
- Apply early: Don’t wait until the last moment
- Use a checklist: Keep track of every required document
- Highlight your scholarship: In your GTE and supporting letters
- Ensure accurate translations: Certified if in another language
- Consult your university: They often have international student advisors to help
- Keep backups: Scan and save every form and receipt
Do Scholarship Providers Help with the Visa Process?
Most reputable scholarship providers—such as the Australia Awards, Endeavour Scholarships, or university-specific schemes—assist students with their visa process. They may:
- Pay your visa application fee
- Provide OSHC
- Issue special invitation letters
- Guide you through GTE writing
Always stay in communication with your scholarship administrator from the time you receive your award to the moment you board your flight.
Is It Possible to Transition to Permanent Residency?
Many international students eventually apply for Permanent Residency (PR) through various skilled migration pathways such as the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) or Skilled Independent visa (subclass 189). Studying on scholarship doesn’t prevent you from applying, although some government-funded programs may require you to return home for a set period before reapplying to re-enter.
Conclusion
Applying for an Australian visa as a scholarship recipient in 2025 involves careful planning, proper documentation, and timely action. With the right preparation and a thorough understanding of visa requirements, you can ensure a smooth transition to your new academic life in Australia. Remember to comply with all visa conditions, leverage the support your scholarship provides, and stay informed throughout the process. A successful visa application not only opens the doors to world-class education but also sets the foundation for a transformative experience in one of the world’s most welcoming countries for students.