Student visa preparation checklist

A Confirmation of Enrolment from a CRICOS-registered provider is the anchor document for a student application.

Depending on citizenship, provider and course, an English test result (IELTS/TOEFL/PTE or equivalent) may be required.

A clear colour copy of the photo page of your current passport, plus any pages showing name changes or amendments, is generally the first item gathered. Keep the copy legible and uncropped.

A recent photograph of your head and shoulders against a plain background is commonly part of a student visa file. One taken within the last six months is generally preferred.

The CoE issued by your education provider, including its code, is typically required for each course at the time you apply — most education sectors expect a CoE rather than an offer letter alone.

In limited situations, applicants hold different study evidence instead — such as a letter of offer, an AASES form for secondary exchange students, a postgraduate thesis-marking letter, or a DFAT or Defence letter of support — showing course name, provider and dates.

A written statement in your own words about your reasons for choosing your course and provider and your future plans, generally supported by records of your study, employment and personal circumstances.

Certificates and transcripts from your previous study are typically gathered to show your academic background and how your intended course follows on from it.

Records showing you can cover course, living and travel costs are generally requested — for example bank statements, an education loan approval, scholarship letters, or evidence of a family member's income and support.

A results certificate from an accepted English language test, or documents showing you fall within an exemption category, is typically part of the checklist.

Evidence of OSHC for your intended stay, such as a policy certificate showing the insurer, policy number and cover dates, is generally required for student visa holders.

Depending on your circumstances and length of stay, immigration health examinations may be requested; results are generally transmitted electronically by the examining clinic, so keep your referral details on file.

Applicants under 18 generally gather evidence of welfare arrangements, such as parental consent documents and records naming a guardian or approved welfare arrangement in Australia.

Any document not in English is generally accompanied by a translation completed by a qualified translator, with the translator's credentials included alongside the original.

Lodgement happens on the official Home Affairs website. Pay the VAC there; nothing is lodged from this platform.

Action any request from the Department promptly — response windows are short.