The student visa application process can be complicated, and for students in some countries it may be better to submit an application with the assistance of an accredited agent due to their familiarity and experience in the field.

Visas are granted by the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC).The DIAC will only grant you a student visa if your course is registered, or is part of a registered course, on a full time basis. A registered course is one offered by an Australian education provider registered with the Australian Government to offer courses to overseas students.

Only courses under three months’ duration can be undertaken on a visitor visa or working holiday visa. If you intend to study for more than three months, you must apply for a student visa.

Find out what visa is most suitable for you on the DIAC website or talk to your local australian government office overseas.

If you are granted a visa, you must abide by its conditions. Failure to comply with these conditions could result in the cancellation of your visa. Some of these conditions include:

• you must complete the course within the duration specified in the confirmation of enrolment
• maintain satisfactory academic progress
• remain with the principal education provider for 6 calendar months, unless issues a letter of release from the provider to attend another institution
• notify your training provider of your Australian address and any subsequent changes of address within 7 days

Read the full list of conditions here.

If your application is not successful you will be told the reasons in writing. The decision not to grant you a student visa cannot be reviewed if you applied from outside Australia. Therefore, before re-applying for a student visa, carefully consider what evidence you can provide to satisfy the decision-maker that you meet all the requirements for a student visa

If you apply in Australia and are refused a student visa then you may apply for a review of the decision. You will be notified of your review rights in writing and the time limits for lodging such an appeal.