How Much Does Student Visa Subclass 500 Cost in Australia in 2026?

How Much Does Student Visa Subclass 500 Cost in Australia in 2026?
Posted by admin
on September 9, 2026
226

If you are planning to study in Australia, cost can be the biggest issue and confusing: how much will it actually cost is a big question. The subclass 500 student visa is a must for international students who want to pursue their education in Australia. Here, the student visa subclass 500 cost is not the only expense you should be prepared for; there are several more considerations.

You also need to plan the budget for OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover), the Student Visa 500 health examination cost, biometrics, and police certificates. Apart from these, you also need to think about the living expenses, tuition fees, and travel costs when planning the overall budget. Let’s break down the Student Visa 500 fees 2026 and get a clear idea of the overall cost involved in studying abroad.

What Is Student Visa Subclass 500?

The Australian visa subclass 500 is a visa for international students who want to pursue courses in Australia. It allows the student to remain in Australia during the period of their approved course while meeting the requirements and terms of their visa.

Who Can Apply for Student Visa 500?

Students who want to study in Australia can apply for the subclass 500 student visa. To apply, you may need to:

  • Be enrolled in an eligible course in Australia and have a valid CoE (confirmation of enrolment).
  • Have overseas student health cover (OSHC).
  • Be 6 years or older.
  • Have the required welfare arrangements if you are under 18.
  • If you are already in Australia, hold a visa that allows you to apply for a student visa from within Australia.
  • Submit your application online, whether you are in Australia or outside.

Read more: Australian Student Visa 500 Checklist 2026

What Does Student Visa 500 Allow You to Do?

This subclass 500 student visa allows international students to stay in Australia while completing their course. It allows you to participate in an eligible course of study in Australia and travel in and out of Australia during your stay. You can also include eligible family members in your visa application if you meet some relevant requirements.

How Much Does a Student Visa 500 Cost in 2026?

Student Visa Subclass 500 fee may cost you around AUD 2,500. However, in certain cases, concessions for the visa application might be applicable. In addition to the basic fee for applying for a Subclass 500 visa, there may be other fees like tuition and living costs that may vary from applicant to applicant.

Student Visa 500 Application Fee

The Student Visa subclass 500 cost is AUD 2,500 for the main applicant, applicable from July 1st, 2026. A lower visa fee may apply if you are an eligible citizen of a Pacific Island country or Timor-Leste, an eligible ASEAN citizen, or an applicant studying in the ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students) or Non-Award sector and you submit a valid student visa application.

Additional Visa Application Charges

The official Department of Home Affairs currently lists the Student Visa 500 application charge of AUD 2,500 from 1 July 2026, with limited concessions per individual. However, if there are additional adults above 18 years, it may cost you AUD 1530 per applicant and AUD 500 per applicant under 18.

What Are the Additional Costs for Student Visa 500?

Aside from the Student Visa 500 application fee, there could be additional fees that you will need to pay when applying for the visa. These expenses can vary depending on your circumstances, the OSHC, health examination fees, biometric charges, tuition fees, and more.

1] Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is compulsory for overseas students applying for the Student Visa 500. Overseas Student Health Cover assists with paying your medical and hospital bills when studying in Australia. The student visa 500 OSHC cost is approximately AUD 1,450, which is determined by several aspects, including how long you will be studying, the insurance company, and the health insurance plan. You must maintain OSHC throughout your period of study.

2] Health Examination Fee

Within the Student Visa Subclass 500 process, one may be required to undertake a health test to satisfy the health requirements of Australia. The Student Visa 500 health examination cost may vary from AUD 500 to AUD 700 depending on the type of medical tests and the clinic physician. This is usually not included in the Student Visa 500 fees 2026 and is paid directly to the medical provider.

3] Biometrics and Other Costs

Biometric fees (approximately AUD 45 per applicant) and others, such as document translation and certification fees and police clearance, may also be borne by you. The Student visa 500 additional costs will be different for each individual applicant.

Read more: Subclass 500 Dependent & Subsequent Entrant Visa Processing Time in Australia

How Much Money Do You Need for Student Visa 500?

The amount needed for Student Visa Subclass 500 is based on your expenses and any accompanying dependants that you may have. Also, you will need to prove that you have enough funds to finance all the expenses while living in Australia.

Financial Capacity Requirement

To fulfil the Student Visa 500 financial requirements, you will need funds for:

  • Tuition fee
  • Living expenses
  • Travel expenses
  • Expenses for accompanying family members, if any

Proof of Funds

For Student Visa 500 Proof of Funds, you will have to provide valid financial evidence that proves your ability to finance your stay in Australia as a student.

  • Bank statement
  • Eligible financial document
  • Other important documents accepted by the Department of Home Affairs.

What Are the Total Costs of Studying in Australia?

The total cost of studying in Australia, including the Subclass 500 visa cost, would be approximately AUD 31,160 annually, excluding tuition fees. The actual cost to study in Australia includes tuition fees, living costs, visa fees, and travel costs, and miscellaneous expenses. Your actual expenses will depend on your course, location, and personal requirements.

Tuition Fees

The tuition cost will vary according to your programme and institution; you must check the fee structure at the institution of your choice.

Living Expenses

For the Student Visa 500 financial requirements, the living-cost amount for the main student can range from AUD 1,200 per week to AUD 29,710 per year. Additional amounts may apply if eligible family members accompany you.

Course and Travel Expenses

You may also require money for buying study materials, extra course costs, and travel costs. Consider these expenses when planning your overall Student Visa 500 cost Australia.

Student Visa 500 Cost Breakdown

 

Cost Details
Visa fee ~2,500 AUD from 1 July 2026
OSHC ~1450 AUD – Varies by provider and coverage
Health checks Varies from AUD 500 to AUD 700
Tuition fees ~25,000 to ~50,000 AUD – Variable based on the course you choose
Living costs AUD 29,710 per year

Conclusion 

The major student visa subclass 500 cost includes the AUD 2,500 visa application fee, AUD 29,710 per year in living expenses, AUD 350 for a health check, OSHC, and tuition costs. These costs may differ depending on the course, insurance provider, and individual requirements.

Since visa fees and requirements may vary, it is important to verify all official details before applying. Migration agents in Adelaide can provide professional assistance regarding all visa requirements and related costs.

FAQs About Student Visa 500 Costs

Is Student Visa 500 Fee Refundable?

No. The Australian visa subclass 500 application fee is non-refundable if your application is refused or you change your mind about pursuing the visa. However, you will not be asked to pay the second instalment if the visa is refused or you change your mind.

Can Student Visa 500 Costs Change?

Yes, the Student Visa subclass 500 cost can change; it is important to check and verify the latest updates and requirements from the official source or contact migration consultant Adelaide.

Does Student Visa 500 Include Tuition Fees?

No, tuition fees are different from the Student Visa 500 application fee and should be paid to your selected education institution.

How Much Money Should I Have Before Studying in Australia?

You will have to budget a minimum of AUD 29,710 towards your living expenses, along with other expenses such as your tuition fees and travel costs.

Need Help?

(Please fill the details below)

Read Our Reviews
I had a great experience with Migration Agent Adelaide for my Student visa subclass 500. Their team made everything simple and stress-free. Truly the best migration agent in Adelaide.
Amelia Rose
Migration Agent Adelaide helped me secure my 189 skilled visa without hassle. Professional, responsive, and knowledgeable—definitely the best immigration agent in Adelaide.
Grace Williams
Migration Agent Adelaide assisted me with my 491 regional visa, and the experience was fantastic. Clear communication and expert advice made all the difference.
David Smith