Australia has become one of the most popular study destinations for Afghan students seeking quality education, cultural diversity, and career opportunities. With world-class universities, affordable living compared to other Western countries, and a welcoming student environment, thousands of international students apply each year.

If you’re an Afghan student planning to study in Australia, the first and most important step is securing a Student Visa (Subclass 500). This guide explains the requirements, step-by-step application process, costs, and tips to help you successfully apply.

لاندی لاړ شه

Why Afghan Students Choose Australia

Quality Education

Australia is home to globally recognized universities like the University of Melbourne, Australian National University (ANU), and University of Sydney. These institutions are ranked among the world’s top 100.

Work Opportunities

The student visa allows part-time work (up to 48 hours per fortnight) during study periods and full-time during breaks. This helps Afghan students manage living expenses.

Cultural Diversity

Australia is one of the most multicultural countries in the world, making it easier for Afghan students to adapt.

Pathways to Permanent Residency

Many graduates transition from student visas to skilled migration pathways, opening long-term opportunities.

Overview of the Student Visa (Subclass 500)

What is a Subclass 500 Visa?

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows international students to:

Stay in Australia for the duration of their study program.
Work part-time while studying.
Bring eligible family members as dependents.
Access Australia’s healthcare system through Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).

Duration of Stay

Depends on the length of your enrolled course.
Typically between 2–5 years for undergraduate or postgraduate study.

Step 1: Choose the Right Course and Institution

Popular Study Fields for Afghan Students

Engineering and IT
Business and Management
Health Sciences (nursing, medicine, pharmacy)
Social Sciences and Education

CRICOS-Registered Institutions

Ensure the course you choose is on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). Without CRICOS registration, you cannot apply for a student visa.

Step 2: Secure a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

What is a CoE?

A Confirmation of Enrolment is an official letter issued by your chosen Australian university or college. It proves you’ve been accepted into a CRICOS-approved course.

How Afghan Students Can Get a CoE

Apply online to universities in Australia.
Submit academic transcripts, English proficiency test results, and personal documents.
Once accepted, pay the initial tuition fee deposit.
The institution will then issue your CoE, which is mandatory for your visa application.

Step 3: Meet English Language Requirements

Accepted Tests

IELTS Academic
TOEFL iBT
PTE Academic
Cambridge English (CAE)

Minimum Scores

Most universities require an IELTS overall score of 6.0–6.5.
Some programs, such as nursing or law, may require higher scores (7.0+).

Exemptions

Students who completed prior education in English may request exemptions, but Afghan students usually need to provide an English test result.

Step 4: Gather Required Documents

Before applying for a student visa, Afghan students must prepare the following documents:

Personal Documents

Valid Afghan passport.
National ID (Tazkira).
Recent passport-sized photographs.

Academic Documents

Certificates and transcripts from high school or previous studies.
English language test results.

Financial Evidence

You must prove you can cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs. This may include:

Bank statements.
Proof of income from parents or sponsors.
Scholarship confirmation letters (if applicable).

Health and Character Documents

Health examination results from an approved clinic.
Police clearance certificate from Afghanistan (and other countries lived in for 12+ months).

Step 5: Purchase Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

What is OSHC?

Overseas Student Health Cover is mandatory for all international students in Australia. It provides access to doctors, hospitals, and basic medical treatment.

Approved Providers

Bupa
Medibank
Allianz Care
nib OSHC

You must buy OSHC for the entire duration of your stay before submitting your visa application.

Step 6: Create an ImmiAccount and Submit Application

What is ImmiAccount?

The ImmiAccount is the Australian Government’s official online portal for visa applications.

How to Apply

Create an account on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Fill out the Student Visa (Subclass 500) application form.
Upload all required documents (CoE, passport, OSHC, financial proof, English test results)
Pay the application fee.

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Step 7: Pay Visa Application Fees

Current Fees (2025)

Main applicant: AUD $710 (approx. 50,000 AFN).
Dependent spouse/partner: AUD $530.
Dependent child: AUD $175.

Fees must be paid online during the application process.

Step 8: Biometrics and Health Examination

Biometrics

Afghan students must attend a local Australian Visa Application Centre (AVAC) or biometrics collection centre to provide fingerprints and a photo.

Medical Examination

You must complete a medical exam through an Australian-approved panel physician to prove you meet health requirements.

Step 9: Wait for Visa Decision

Processing Times

Most student visas are processed within 4–6 weeks.
Afghan applicants may face longer processing due to additional security checks.

After Approval

You’ll receive a Visa Grant Letter via email, outlining:

Visa conditions.
Visa grant number.
Expiry date.

Step 10: Travel to Australia and Begin Studies

Once approved, you can book your flight to Australia. Make sure to:

Carry your Visa Grant Letter.
Have your OSHC confirmation.
Show proof of funds if requested by immigration officers.

Challenges Afghan Students May Face

Security and Background Checks

Due to Afghanistan’s political situation, Afghan applicants may undergo more thorough checks.

Access to Documents

Some students may face difficulties obtaining police clearance or certified documents.

Limited Testing Centers

English tests and medical exams may require travel to nearby countries (e.g., Pakistan, UAE).

Tips for Afghan Students Applying

Apply Early

Start your application at least 6–9 months before your course begins.

Seek Scholarships

Look for Australian government scholarships such as:

Australia Awards Scholarships.
Destination Australia Program.

Use Registered Education Agents

Consider working with MARA-registered agents who can guide you through the visa process.

Double-Check Documents

Ensure all translations are certified in English and meet Australian government requirements.

After Arrival: Maintaining Visa Conditions

Study Requirements

You must remain enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course.
Maintain satisfactory academic progress.

Work Conditions

Maximum 48 hours per fortnight during semesters.
Unlimited work hours during scheduled breaks.

Visa Compliance

Keep OSHC valid.
Notify your institution and immigration of any address change.
Renew your visa before expiry if continuing studies.

Conclusion

Applying for a student visa to Australia as an Afghan student requires careful planning, preparation, and attention to detail. From securing a CoE and passing an English test, to proving financial stability and undergoing health checks, each step is crucial for success.

By following this step-by-step guide, Afghan students can increase their chances of approval and begin their educational journey in one of the world’s most welcoming and opportunity-rich countries.