Study in Australia from Pakistan: Costs, Student Visa (Subclass 500) and Funds Required
Key numbers
- Living costs to show: AUD 29,710 per year (single student)
- Partner: + AUD 10,394 · Child: + AUD 4,449
- Visa: Student visa (subclass 500)
- Work: up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods
- Health cover: OSHC is compulsory
Australia offers high-quality universities, a multicultural environment and post-study work options. It is also one of the more expensive destinations, and visa rules have tightened, so careful planning is essential.
Step 1: Choose a course and get a CoE
Apply to a CRICOS-registered institution. Main intakes are February and July. After accepting your offer and paying the deposit, you receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), which you need for the visa.
Step 2: Work out the full cost
| Expense | Typical first-year cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate tuition | 20,000 – 45,000 |
| Postgraduate tuition | 22,000 – 50,000 |
| Living costs (official minimum) | 29,710 |
| Travel | 1,000 – 2,500 |
| OSHC (health cover) | Varies by provider and length |
You must show money for 12 months of living costs, first-year tuition and travel. As an alternative, a parent or spouse can show annual income of at least AUD 87,856 (or AUD 102,500 if family members are coming).
Step 3: Meet the visa requirements
- Genuine Student (GS) requirement: answer questions explaining your circumstances, study plan and how the course fits your future. Be specific and honest.
- English: meet the visa’s English test requirement (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL iBT and others are accepted) as well as your university’s requirement.
- Health and character: medical exam and police certificate if requested.
- OSHC: buy approved health insurance for the whole visa period.
Step 4: Apply online
- Create an ImmiAccount on the Department of Home Affairs website.
- Fill in the subclass 500 application and upload your CoE, passport, financial evidence, academic documents, English results, GS answers and OSHC.
- Pay the visa fee. Check the current amount on the Home Affairs website, as it has risen sharply in recent years.
- Give biometrics and do the medical if asked.
Working while studying
Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session and unlimited hours during official breaks. Australia’s minimum wage is high, but jobs take time to find. Do not plan your budget around immediate work income.
After graduation
Eligible graduates may apply for a Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485). Length depends on your qualification, and the rules change regularly. Check the latest requirements before choosing your course.
Scholarships
- Australia Awards (when offered for Pakistan)
- University merit scholarships, often 10–50% of tuition
- Research Training Program (RTP) scholarships for PhD students
Frequently asked questions
Can I take my family?
Yes, dependants can usually be included, but you must show extra funds for each family member.
Is a study gap a problem?
Gaps must be explained clearly in your GS answers, ideally with evidence of work or study during the gap.
Source: Department of Home Affairs – Student visa (subclass 500). Figures last checked October 2026.
