21 February 2025
5 minutes read
Can You Study on a Tourist Visa in Australia?
21 February 2025
5 minutes read
Key Takeaways
- Can you study on a tourist visa in Australia? Yes, but only for up to 3 months; longer courses require a Student Visa (Subclass 500).
- Switching from a tourist visa to a student visa is not allowed. As of 2024, you must apply from outside Australia for a Student Visa (Subclass 500).
- Working while studying on a tourist visa is prohibited. Only student visas allow limited work hours during study periods.
Australia is a great country to explore as a tourist, but what if you want to study while you’re there? Many visitors wonder whether they can study in Australia on a visitor visa or a holiday visa. Knowledge of visa types, subclass rules, and the current visa application requirements is vital to ensure there are no problems.
In this article, we will explain if a tourist visa qualifies you to study in Australia, what the limits are, the opportunities for converting a student visa, and what visa holders must do to get a student visa. If you intend studying for over three months, you will be able to know what you can do and stay lawfully in Australia through this guide.
Can You Study in Australia on a Tourist Visa?
A tourist visa (subclass 600) provides you with a chance to go to Australia on a tourist stay, discover its lovely places, and take up short-term undertakings. However, visa holders may study only under strict rules governing the visa type.
How Long Can You Study on a Tourist Visa?
The tourist visa in Australia allows you to study for less than three months (90 days).
If your study plans exceed three months, you require to apply for a student visa. The period of restriction is for all foreign students who want to study on a tourist visa.
Can You Convert a Tourist Visa to a Student Visa?
The period of restriction is for all foreign students who want to study on a tourist visa. However, new migration policies introduced by the Australian government prevent onshore student visa conversion.
- As of July 2024, a tourist to student visa conversion is not permitted without leaving the country.
- Applicants must now apply for a student visa (subclass 500) from outside Australia.
If you prefer to study for a long period, you have to apply for a visa when your tourist visa is about to expire and avoid any complications with staying illegally.
What are Some Alternatives to Applying a Tourist Visa in Australian Soil (Working Holiday Visa and More)?
As a tourist visa only allows you to study for 3 months, you might need another Australian visa to pursue longer studies. Here are some alternatives:
1. Student Visa (Subclass 500)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | Up to 5 years, depending on the course. |
| Work Rights | Allows work up to 40 hours per fortnight. |
| Eligibility | Must enroll in a registered university or ELICOS course. |
| Requirement | A valid passport, proof of financial support, and health insurance. |
- Applicants require to apply for this student visa from offshore.
- The visa application process takes a couple of days to several months, depending on the applicant’s country.
2. Working Holiday Visa (Subclass 417 & 462)
A working holiday visa allows young people from eligible countries to visit the country and work temporarily.
- It grants four months of study, which is more than a tourist permit allows.
- This visa type lets you work part-time while studying without leaving the country.
- The working holiday visa to student visa pathway is no longer allowed onshore.
3. Work and Holiday Visa (Subclass 462)
Similar to the subclass 417, this visa also allows:
- Study for up to four months.
- Work in while studying.
If you wish to convert a holiday visa to a study visa, you must apply from overseas.
What are the Key Differences Between a Tourist Visa and a Student Visa?
Understanding the differences between a tourist visa and study visa can help determine the best choice for your study plans.
| Feature | Tourist Visa (Subclass 600) | Study Visa (Subclass 500) |
|---|---|---|
| Study Duration | Less than 3 months | More than 3 months |
| Work Rights | Not allowed | Allowed (40 hrs/fortnight) |
| Eligibility | Tourism & short-term courses | University or ELICOS |
| Application Location | Onshore or Offshore | Offshore only (from 2024) |
| Visa Conversion | Not possible onshore | Can extend with a study visa extension |
Step-by-Step Visa Application Process
If you want to study for more than 3 months, the following are the steps to get a study visa:
- Choose a Course & Institution: Study from a registered university or English course.
- Obtain a CoE: You’ll require a CoE, i.e., a Confirmation of Enrolment letter for your application.
- Organize Your Documents: Current passport, financial evidence, health insurance, and other visa documents.
- Apply for a Study Visa (Subclass 500) Offshore: Apply outside the nation via the Department of Home Affairs online portal.
- Attend an Appointment: Appointments might be necessary for some applicants to schedule for a visa interview or present biometric information.
- Wait for Processing & Grant Approval: Granting of the visa is based on compliance with the travel requirements.
- Travel to Australia & Begin Studies: Upon approval, travel and commence studies within the country legally.
What are Some Key Restrictions and Conditions Issued by the Australian Government for Visitor Visa Requirements?
Studying on a visitor visa has strict rules governing what is permitted.
Ensure you meet these needs to avoid visa rejection or cancellation.
- Cannot work on a tourist visa – Unlike a holiday visa, a tourist visa does not permit employment.
- Cannot extend study beyond 3 months – If your study plans exceed 3 months, you must apply for a study visa before your tourist permit expires, making your stay in Australia impossible after that.
- Cannot apply onshore after 2024 – Visa holders must submit a study visa application from overseas.
- Must meet healthcare requirements – All students must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
What are Some of the Best Universities to Study in Australia?
The Australian soil is home to numerous prestigious universities that attract students worldwide.
Below is a table highlighting 15 top Australian universities, their estimated annual tuition fees for international students, average graduate starting salaries, and visa needs.
| University | Annual Tuition Fees (AUD) | Average Graduate Starting Salary (AUD) | Visa Needs |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Melbourne | 56,480 – 112,832 | 60,200 | Subclass 500; Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE); proof of sufficient funds; Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC); English proficiency test scores. |
| University of Sydney | 53,600 – 57,700 | 57,000 | Subclass 500; CoE; financial proof; OSHC; English proficiency. |
| University of New South Wales (UNSW) | 58,560 | 56,700 | Subclass 500; CoE; proof of funds; OSHC; English proficiency. |
| Australian National University (ANU) | 44,670 – 95,360 | 56,200 | Subclass 500; CoE; financial documentation; OSHC; English proficiency. |
| Monash University | 20,000 – 50,000 | 60,200 | Subclass 500; CoE; proof of funds; OSHC; English proficiency. |
| University of Queensland (UQ) | 20,000 – 50,000 | 60,200 | Subclass 500; CoE; financial proof; OSHC; English proficiency. |
| University of Western Australia (UWA) | 20,000 – 50,000 | 65,800 | Subclass 500; CoE; proof of funds; OSHC; English proficiency. |
| University of Adelaide | 20,000 – 50,000 | 52,800 | Subclass 500; CoE; financial documentation; OSHC; English proficiency. |
| University of Technology Sydney (UTS) | 20,000 – 50,000 | 57,000 | Subclass 500; CoE; proof of funds; OSHC; English proficiency. |
| University of Wollongong | 20,000 – 50,000 | 52,500 | Subclass 500; CoE; financial proof; OSHC; English proficiency. |
| Macquarie University | 20,000 – 50,000 | 60,200 | Subclass 500; CoE; proof of funds; OSHC; English proficiency. |
| Queensland University of Technology (QUT) | 20,000 – 50,000 | 60,200 | Subclass 500; CoE; financial documentation; OSHC; English proficiency. |
| University of Newcastle | 20,000 – 50,000 | 60,200 | Subclass 500; CoE; proof of funds; OSHC; English proficiency. |
| University of Canberra | 22,500 | 60,200 | Subclass 500; CoE; financial proof; OSHC; English proficiency. |
| University of Notre Dame Australia | 20,000 – 50,000 | 60,200 | Subclass 500; CoE; proof of funds; OSHC; English proficiency. |
Conclusion
While visiting Australia, you can study for up to 3 months on a tourist visa. However, if you wish to pursue long-term studies, a study visa (subclass 500) is required. Onshore study visa conversion is no longer allowed, meaning applicants must apply offshore before continuing their education.
To ensure success or failure does not become an issue, consult a registered migration agent before applying for a visa. Understanding the visa types, eligibility criteria, and restrictions will help you arrange your study plans smoothly.
If you need to apply for a visa, visit the Department of Home Affairs for the latest updates on travel policies and visa processing.
Do you want to study in Australia? Get in touch with the experts at Ambitio and make your dreams come true!
FAQs
Can you study on a tourist visa in Australia?
Yes, but only for up to 3 months; longer courses require a Student Visa (Subclass 500).
Can you switch from a tourist visa to a student visa?
No, as of 2024, you must apply from outside Australia for a Student Visa.
Can you work while studying on a tourist visa?
No, tourist visas do not allow employment; only student visas permit limited work hours.
Can you extend a tourist visa to continue studying?
No, a tourist visa cannot be extended for study; you need a student visa.
Do you need health insurance to study on a tourist visa?
No, but Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is required for student visas.
What types of courses can you take on a tourist visa?
Short courses under 3 months, including language, vocational, and training programs.
What happens if you study longer than allowed on a tourist visa?
You risk visa cancellation and potential deportation for violating visa conditions.
You can study at top universities worldwide!
Get expert tips and tricks to get into top universities with a free expert session.
Book Your Free 30-Minute Session Now! Book a call now
