Global Select Education and Migration Services
Posted on

Understanding Financial Requirements for Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500)

Blog

Demonstrating financial capacity is crucial when applying for an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500). As of May 10, 2024, Australia has set clear guidelines on the minimum funds you must show to secure your visa.

Key Financial Requirements

You must prove you can cover:

  • Travel expenses to Australia
  • Tuition fees for the first 12 months (or the full course if shorter
  • Living expenses for you and your accompanying family members for 12 months
  • Schooling expenses for any school-age dependents

Updated Annual Living Expenses (AUD)

  • Primary Applicant: $29,710
  • Spouse/Partner: $10,394
  • Dependent Child: $4,449
  • School-age Dependent Child (school fees): $13,502

These figures are minimum requirements—your actual costs may vary significantly based on location and lifestyle.

Calculating Your Total Funds

Here's how to calculate the total amount required:

Example Scenario:

  • Course Duration: 2 years
  • Total Course Fee: AUD 67,000
  • Already Paid: AUD 14,000
  • Family: Spouse and one school-age child (6 years old)
  • Applying From: Nepal

Step-by-Step Financial Calculation

  1. Course Fees (First 12 months)
    • Annual Course Fee: $67,000 ÷ 2 = AUD 33,500
    • Deduct already paid fees: $33,500-$14,000 = AUD 19,500
  2. Living Costs (Annual)
    • Primary Applicant: AUD 29,710
    • Spouse: AUD 10,394
    • Child: AUD 4,449
    • Total Living Costs: AUD 44,553
  3. Schooling Costs (Child)
    • Minimum required: AUD 13,502
  4. Travel Costs
    • Applicant: AUD 2,000
    • Spouse: AUD 2,000
    • Child: AUD 2,000
    • Total Travel Costs: AUD 6,000

Total Funds Required: AUD 83,555

Providing Acceptable Financial Evidence

Ensure you provide legitimate financial evidence through:

  • Bank deposits
  • Loans (from financial institutions or governments)
  • Scholarships
  • Support from parents or partners (official tax documentation within the last 12 months)

Note: Bank statements alone are not accepted.

Proving Genuine Access to Funds

Simply having the money isn't sufficient. You must prove genuine access through:

  • Proof of relationship (if supported by family)
  • Identification documents of the sponsor
  • History of financial support
  • Loan terms and evidence of fund availability (if using loans)

Special Cases and Exceptions

Certain applicants have alternative proof methods:

  • Secondary Exchange Students: Submit an AASES form
  • DFAT or Defence-sponsored students: Provide a support letter and relevant documents

Final Advice

Gather and organize your financial documentation early for a smoother application process.Always refer to theAustralian Department of Home Affairs or consult a registered migration agent for personalized advice.

What to read next
By
Global Select Education and Migration Services
|

Expectations of Students Entering Australia in 2025: Focus on Nursing, Early Childhood Teaching, and Social Work Courses

Australia’s international student population is projected to hit record highs in 2025, with strong interest in Nursing, Early Childhood Teaching, and Social Work—fields offering high job demand and societal value. Key regions like South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales stand out for quality education and employment prospects. The blog also highlights a 15% rise in enrolments since 2019, driven by growth in the VET and higher education sectors. These trends signal strong opportunities for international students pursuing meaningful, in-demand careers.

By
Global Select Education and Migration Services
|
August 26, 2024
August
2024

Associate Degree

Australia provides numerous educational streams including associate courses helping in attaining the general education and skills in certain discipline.

By
Global Select Education and Migration Services
|
September 12, 2024
September
2024

Understanding the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)

The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows recent international graduates to live, study, and work in Australia after completing their studies. It's an excellent opportunity for those seeking to gain valuable work experience in their field or explore further study opportunities.

CourseBachelor’s DegreeMaster’s DegreeRequirements or ConsiderationsEnglish Language Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)Tuition Fees (per year for international students)Top Universities
Nursing
3 years1-2 yearsClinical placements required; may need specific health immunizations.Minimum IELTS 6.5; TOEFL 79-93.AUD $30,000 - $45,000University of Sydney, University of Melbourne, Monash University
Information Technology
3-4 years1-2 yearsMay require programming skills or prior coursework in IT.Minimum IELTS 6.5; TOEFL 79-93.AUD $30,000 - $50,000Australian National University, University of New South Wales, University of Melbourne
Accounting
3 years1-2 yearsNeed to meet accreditation standards by professional bodies.Minimum IELTS 6.5; TOEFL 79-93.AUD $30,000 - $40,000University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, University of Queensland
Engineering (various fields)
4 years1-2 yearsStrong background in mathematics and physics required.Minimum IELTS 6.5; TOEFL 79-93.AUD $35,000 - $45,000University of New South Wales, University of Sydney, Monash University
Social Work
4 years1-2 yearsPractical experience or placements required.Minimum IELTS 7.0; TOEFL 94-101.AUD $28,000 - $40,000University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, University of Queensland
Education (various fields)
4 years1-2 yearsA police clearance and working with children check required.Minimum IELTS 7.0; TOEFL 94-101.AUD $28,000 - $35,000University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, Monash University
Psychology
3 years1-2 yearsRequires strong research and psychological theory understanding.Minimum IELTS 7.0; TOEFL 94-101.AUD $30,000 - $45,000University of Sydney, University of New South Wales, University of Queensland
Occupational Therapy
3-4 years1-2 yearsMay require pre-registration or relevant clinical experience.Minimum IELTS 7.0; TOEFL 94-101.AUD $30,000 - $45,000University of Queensland, University of Sydney, Curtin University
Architecture
3-4 years2 yearsIncludes technical and creative coursework, portfolio may be required.Minimum IELTS 6.5; TOEFL 79-93.AUD $35,000 - $50,000University of Sydney, University of Melbourne, Monash University
Medicine and  Health Sciences
5-6 years2-4 yearsHighly competitive entry, includes clinical placements and internships.Minimum IELTS 7.0; TOEFL 94-101.AUD $45,000 - $70,000University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, Australian National University
State/TerritorySubclass 190 (Skilled Nominated Visa)Subclass 491 (Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) Visa)
New South Wales (NSW)Required for some occupationsRequired for some occupations and regions
Victoria (VIC)RequiredRequired
Queensland (QLD)Not typically required, conditions applyRequired for some occupations and regions
South Australia (SA)Not typically required, conditions applyRequired for some occupations and regions
Western Australia (WA)Not typically requiredNot typically required
Tasmania (TAS)Not typically required, conditions applyNot typically required, conditions apply
Northern Territory (NT)Not typically requiredNot typically required
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)Required, uses Matrix systemRequired, uses Matrix system