Subclass 500 Student Visa
World-class education at top-ranked universities. Work part-time during studies, get post-study work rights, and pathway to permanent residence.
7.5 L+
Intl Students
35,000+
Nepali Students
43
Universities
48 hrs
Work/Fortnight
2-6 yrs
Post-Study Work
Available
PR Pathway
Jan 2026 Update - Nepal Moved to Higher Risk Level
- Age Limit Reduced: Age limit for Subclass 485 reduced to 35 years (Masters/PhD students up to 50).
- More extensive financial evidence required
- Bank statements for 3+ months mandatory
- Authenticated academic transcripts needed
- Higher chances of interview requests
- Longer processing times expected
Step-by-Step Application Process
Choose Course & University
Research courses and apply to Australian institutions
Receive CoE
Get Confirmation of Enrolment from your institution
Buy OSHC
Mandatory Overseas Student Health Cover for visa duration
Create ImmiAccount
Register on Department of Home Affairs website
Complete Application
Fill online visa application with all documents
Biometrics & Health
Submit fingerprints and complete medical examination
Wait for Decision
Processing takes 4-8 weeks typically
Top Universities for Nepali Students
University of Melbourne
Melbourne, VIC
Tuition: AUD 45,000 - 55,000/year
University of Sydney
Sydney, NSW
Tuition: AUD 50,000 - 60,000/year
UNSW Sydney
Sydney, NSW
Tuition: AUD 45,000 - 55,000/year
Australian National University
Canberra, ACT
Tuition: AUD 45,000 - 50,000/year
Monash University
Melbourne, VIC
Tuition: AUD 42,000 - 50,000/year
University of Queensland
Brisbane, QLD
Tuition: AUD 40,000 - 48,000/year
Popular Courses for Nepali Students
Nursing & Healthcare
High demand profession with excellent salary. 22 Australian universities in QS top 200 for Nursing.
IT & Data Science
Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Software Engineering, AI/ML. Growing demand globally.
Accounting & Finance
CPA/CA pathway available. Strong career prospects with major firms.
Engineering
Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Software Engineering. Engineers Australia accredited programs.
MBA & Business
Global recognition, networking opportunities. Leadership roles in multinational companies.
Social Work
Direct PR pathway. High demand in regional areas.
Spouse & Dependent Visa
Australia offers full work rights for spouses of student visa holders. Your spouse can work unlimited hours while you study.
| Dependent Type | Work Rights | Study Rights |
|---|---|---|
| Spouse/Partner | Full work rights (unlimited hours) | Can study any course |
| Children under 18 | Cannot work | Free public schooling in some states |
| Children 18+ | Apply separately | Separate student visa required |
Key Updates for 2025-2026
Genuine Student (GS) Requirement: Replaced the old GTE requirement in March 2024. Answer targeted questions about your study plans.
Work Hours Changed: Now 48 hours per fortnight during studies (previously 40 hours).
OSHC Mandatory: Must have Overseas Student Health Cover for entire visa duration.
Regional Benefits: Study in regional areas for extra PR points and longer post-study work visa.
SSVF Levels: Nepal moved to Evidence Level 3 - stricter documentation requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from CRICOS registered institution
- Genuine Student (GS) requirement - answer 4-5 targeted questions
- Financial capacity: AUD 24,505/year living costs + tuition + travel
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.0+ (no band below 5.5) or equivalent
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for visa duration
- Meet health and character requirements
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
Working While Studying
| Work Type | Hours Allowed | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| During Studies | 48 hrs/fortnight | During academic sessions. Unlimited during semester breaks. |
| Masters by Research/PhD | Unlimited | No work hour restrictions for research students. |
| Post-Study (485 Visa) | Full-time | 2-6 years depending on qualification and study location. |
Complete Costs Breakdown
Application Fees
Living Costs (Annual)
Tuition Fees (Per Year)
Scholarships for Nepali Students
Australia Awards
Full scholarship
Government-funded for Nepal citizens. Covers tuition, living costs, airfare.
Destination Australia
AUD 15,000/year
For studying in regional Australia. Merit-based selection.
Research Training Program
Full tuition + stipend
For Masters by Research and PhD students at Australian universities.
University Merit Scholarships
10-50% fee waiver
Based on academic excellence. Available at most universities.
Australia Study Intakes
Semester 1
Application Deadline
October - December
Classes Start
February
Semester 2
Application Deadline
April - June
Classes Start
July
Trimester 3
Application Deadline
August - September
Classes Start
November
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Genuine Student requirement?
The GS requirement asks you to answer 4-5 questions (150 words each) about why you chose this course and Australia, your circumstances, and future plans. It replaced the old GTE requirement in March 2024.
What is OSHC?
Overseas Student Health Cover is mandatory health insurance for all student visa holders. It covers medical expenses, hospital treatment, and ambulance services. Popular providers include Medibank, Bupa, and Allianz.
Can my spouse work in Australia?
Yes! Spouses of student visa holders get full work rights with unlimited hours. They can also study any course they wish.
What is the 485 visa?
The Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) allows you to work in Australia after graduation. Duration: 2-6 years depending on your qualification and where you studied (regional areas get longer).
How do I get PR after studying?
Australian study adds points to your skilled migration application. Common pathways: 189 (independent), 190 (state nominated), 491 (regional). Australian work experience and study in regional areas give bonus points.
Ready to Study in Australia?
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