Student Visa 500 Document Checklist 2026

Everything you need to lodge a complete Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) application — enrolment confirmation, finances, health, and more.

The Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) lets you study at an Australian educational institution. It's one of the more straightforward visa applications, but there are still specific documents you need to gather before you can lodge. This guide covers everything required.

Enrolment confirmation (CoE)

Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) is the most important document in your application. You cannot apply for the Student Visa without it. Your educational institution issues the CoE through PRISMS once you've accepted your offer and paid your fees.

• CoE must match the course level and duration you intend to study
• If studying multiple courses, you may need multiple CoEs
• CoE is submitted electronically — you'll reference the CoE number in your application

Identity documents

• Valid passport — must remain valid for the duration of your course
• Previous passports if applicable
• Birth certificate
• Change of name documents if your name differs from your passport

Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement

You must demonstrate that you genuinely intend to stay in Australia temporarily for study purposes. This is assessed via a GTE statement addressing:

• Why you chose this course and this institution
• Your study and career plans
• Your ties to your home country (family, property, employment)
• Why you intend to return home after your studies

Financial evidence

You must show you can cover tuition fees, living costs ($21,041 AUD per year as of 2024), and return travel.

• Bank statements (at least 3 months, showing sufficient funds)
• Evidence of scholarship or financial sponsorship if applicable
• Evidence that tuition fees are already paid (fee receipt from institution)
• Sponsor letter if someone else is funding your studies

English proficiency

• IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge test results
• Some courses and nationalities may be exempt — check with your institution

Health and character

• Health examination (if required — check the Department's health requirement tool)
• Police clearance from any country you've lived in for 12+ months in the past 10 years (if your course is longer than 10 months)

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

OSHC is compulsory for all student visa holders. You must purchase it before lodging your application. Your institution may arrange OSHC on your behalf — confirm with them.

• OSHC certificate or policy number
• Cover must start on arrival and end at course completion

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