Student visas

Most international students require a student visa to study in Australia. If you are offered a course of less than three months, such as a short-term non-award program you may not require a visa.

How do I apply for a student visa?

For more information on the current visa processing times, please contact your nearest Australian Embassy, Consulate or High Commission. They will also be able to give you further information about how to apply for a student visa, and whether you will be required to undergo health checks or provide chest X-rays.

International students are required to demonstrate and/or declare that they have genuine access to sufficient funds to be granted a Student visa. Applicants may have to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover these expenses for the first one or two years in Australia, depending on their assessment level [PDF].

Some programs are eligible for Streamlined Visa Processing. If your program is eligible for Streamlined Visa Processing you will be assessed as if you are lower risk (similar to Assessment Level 1 [PDF]).

If your program is not eligible for Streamlined Visa Processing you need to allow sufficient time for your student visa to be processed as it can take up to six months depending on your citizenship.  

To obtain a visa you will need to: 

1. Select a visa according to your course of study: There are a number of student visa options available. To determine which student visa is best suited to your study program please visit the Department of Immigration and Citizenship's website.
2. Determine if your program is eligible for Streamlined Visa Processing. If your program is eligible for Streamlined Visa Processing you will be assessed as if you are lower risk (similar to an Assessment Level 1). If your program is not eligible for Streamlined Visa Processing, your assessment level is determined by your nationality. Information about assessment levels is available via the Department of Immigration and Citizenship's website.
3. Understand your visa conditions: Please note that if you are granted a student visa, you must comply with all conditions as outlined by the visa. These conditions include (but are not limited to) the following. You must:

• complete your program within your visa duration
• make satisfactory academic progress
• not interrupt your study, except for compelling or compassionate grounds;
• maintain approved Overseas Student Health Cover whilst in Australia
• advise the University on mySI-net immediately of changes in your Australian address and contact details.

For more information or a full list of visa conditions, please visit the Department of Immigration and Citizenship's website.

What is the Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)?

OSHC is a health insurance that provides international students with basic cover for medical and hospital care costs while in Australia. OSHC is a compulsory requirement for a student visa and is available from any government-approved OSHC provider.

Where can I get help with my visa application?

Applying for a student visa can be a complicated process. While you are able to do this yourself, an approved UQ International Education Representative can help you with the process. Education representatives are trained to assist applicants with their university and visa applications.

How much does my student visa cost?

There is a non-refundable visa charge when you apply for your visa. For more information on visa fees and charges please visit the DIAC website.

Can I work in Australia with a student visa?

If you hold a student visa, you can work in Australia up to 40 hours per fortnight while your University program is in session, and full-time during University vacations. In general, students should not expect to cover tuition fees or living expenses from casual work. 

How do I extend my visa?

For information about visa extensions and renewals please visit the Guide for International students.

Disclaimer: in the case where a discrepancy may occur relating to the information published on this page, students should rely on the principal website as the accurate source of information.

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