Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500) Checklist for Indian Students (2025)
Complete, step-by-step document checklist for Indian students applying from India or the GCC (UAE, Saudi, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait). Includes Genuine Student (GS) requirements, funds, OSHC, English tests, and forms.
Genuine Student (GS) Requirement — What Changed?
From 23 March 2024, Australia replaced GTE with the Genuine Student (GS) requirement. Students must show the primary intention is to study, with clear research on the course/provider and an understanding of study/life in Australia.
- GS questions are answered in ImmiAccount (max 150 words each).
- Attach evidence — academics, employment, finances, family ties, reasons for studying in Australia, and career outcomes.
Documents Required — Subclass 500
1) Identity
- Passport (clear color scan; all pages with bio/visas if asked)
- Optional supporting ID: Birth Certificate / Aadhaar / Driver’s License (certified if requested)
2) Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
- CoE for each CRICOS-registered course
- DFAT/Defence/Secondary Exchange: Letter of Support or AASES form instead of CoE
3) Genuine Student (GS) Statement & Evidence
- Answer GS questions (current circumstances; why this course/provider in Australia; how it benefits your future; any other relevant info)
- Attach: academic transcripts, degree certificates, updated résumé/CV, job letters/salary slips (if employed), course research, and a concise SOP that aligns with GS
4) Financial Capacity (Funds)
- 12-month living costs (student): AUD 29,710
- Partner: AUD 10,394; each child: AUD 4,449
- School fees (per child 5–18): at least AUD 13,502 / year
- Tuition fees: first 12 months (or total if course ≤12 months)
- Travel costs: typically AUD 2,000 (outside Australia) / AUD 1,000 (onshore)
- Acceptable proof: recent bank statements (with history), fixed deposits, approved education loan letters (with disbursement terms), tax returns, CA summary (if used), salary slips/employer letters
- Tip for GCC residents: provide UAE/GCC bank statements, salary certificates, and NRE/NRO statements if applicable
Need help? Try our Australia Student Visa Funds Calculator.
5) OSHC — Overseas Student Health Cover
- OSHC certificate with insurer name, policy number, and dates covering your visa length
6) English Language Evidence
- IELTS / PTE / TOEFL / OET (unless exempt). Check provider score validity and your offer conditions.
7) Health & Character
- Medical exams / chest X-ray (as directed after application or upfront if instructed)
- Police clearance certificates if requested
8) Forms
- Form 956 / 956A (if using a migration agent/authorised person)
- Form 1229 (if under 18 and a parent/guardian is not travelling)
- Form 157N or welfare letter (if under 18 and required)
9) Dependants (if applicable)
- Marriage/birth certificates, family composition proof
- School enrolment proof and school fee estimates for children (5–18)
10) Research Students
- Thesis/research topic summary + updated CV
11) Name Change
- Marriage certificate or legal name change document
How to Calculate Tuition & Living Costs (Examples)
- Course fee AUD 50,000 over 3 years → First-year tuition = 50,000 ÷ 3 = AUD 16,666 (then add living + travel + any child schooling)
- Course fee AUD 15,000 for 10 months, already paid AUD 5,000 → Tuition to show = AUD 10,000
- Course fee AUD 20,000 for 18 months → (20,000 ÷ 18) × 12 = AUD 13,333 for first 12 months
Always attach receipts/CoE showing amounts paid and bank/loan evidence showing genuine access to funds.
Practical Tips for Indian Students (India & GCC)
- Upload clear, color scans and keep filenames tidy (e.g.,
NAME_Passport.pdf,NAME_CoE.pdf). - Notarise/certify key documents when requested by the case officer.
- Show study & career logic (course progression, relevance to prior study/work, expected salary/role).
- Explain study gaps & course/provider changes with evidence.
- GCC earners: include salary certificate, stamped bank statements, and employment contract.