Visas for international students

Understand your visa options, your visa requirements, and how enrolment changes can impact your visa.

Changes to Student visa application rules 

From 2 October 2026, there are new rules for Student visas (subclass 500) and Student Guardian visas (subclass 590). The rules change who can apply for and be granted a visa while in Australia, and whether family members can be included in a Student visa application.

For an overview of the changes, visit the Student visa changes information page. Make sure you know how the new rules affect you before making visa, study, travel or relocation plans.

Study on a visa

If you’re an international student, you must hold a valid Australian visa that allows you to study for the full duration of your course or research visit at the University of Melbourne.

Visa eligibility, conditions and application processes are set by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA). You’re responsible for ensuring your visa remains valid and for meeting all visa conditions while you study.

Find out what visa you need

To explore visa options and confirm you hold a visa that allows you to study for the full duration of your course or research visit, use the DHA Visa Finder.

Most international students in Australia study on a Student visa (subclass 500). Student visa holders must be enrolled in a CRICOS-registered course, understand their visa conditions, and meet their responsibilities while studying. Changes to your enrolment may affect your visa.

Apply for a student visa

  • New students

    The New Students hub contains all the information you'll need to accept your offer, complete your enrolment, and settle in to life at Melbourne.

  • Request University documents

    Request documents for skills assessments and visa applications, including your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and release letters.

  • Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS)

    The Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act 2000 protects international students by setting standards for education providers in Australia.