Synopsis : Australia has raised its student visa fee by 25% for international students, with the new charge effective from July 1, 2025. Despite the hike, it remains lower than the sharp 125% increase seen in 2024, reflecting Australia’s evolving immigration and education cost landscape.
The cost of studying in Australia is set to rise again as the country increases its student visa fees for international students by 25%. From July 1, 2025, the visa application charge (VAC) for Student visas (subclass 500) and Student Guardian visas (subclass 590) will increase from AUD $1,600 to AUD $2,000 for primary applicants.
This follows a sharp 125% hike implemented in 2024 when fees jumped from AUD $710 to AUD $1,600, indicating Australia’s continued focus on restructuring its international education sector’s financial model. The hike will apply to all international students except Pacific Island and Timor-Leste applicants.
Subclass 500 visas allow international students to study in Australia for up to five years across higher education, vocational and education training (VET), pathway courses, English language courses, school-level education, and postgraduate research, among others. Students must first secure a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian education provider before applying for the visa.
In addition to the base application charge of AUD $2,000, additional applicant charges apply: AUD $1,225 for applicants over 18 and AUD $400 for those under 18. Students applying within Australia may also need to pay a Subsequent Temporary Application Charge (STAC) of AUD $700.
Exemptions remain in place for secondary exchange students, students on Commonwealth-approved training schemes, and those applying for a new visa due to an education provider default. These measures aim to balance student inflow while maintaining Australia’s commitment to its education quality and border management policies.
With Australia remaining a preferred destination for Indian and global students, this visa fee hike will require families to rework budgets while planning for higher education abroad, underlining the need for financial preparedness when considering Australia for study.
Disclaimer : This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute immigration or financial advice. Please consult your education consultant or official Australian government resources before making visa or study plans.
