Studying in Australia in 2026: What Indian students must know about the new student visa rules

India represents one of the largest education markets in the world, with over 40 million students engaged in school and university education every year. Given this scale, it is natural that the number of students aspiring to pursue quality higher education at globally recognised institutions continues to rise. For many Indian families, studying abroad remains a key pathway to access academic quality, global exposure, and long-term career outcomes.

According to the University Living research desk, by October 2025, Australia had around 8.3 lakh international students and over 10 lakh enrolments across courses. India sits at the centre of this demand with just over 1.2 lakh students, accounting for roughly 16 to 17% of the total.

For students considering Australia in 2026, the visa application requires serious attention. Australia has revised its policy for international students.

Genuine student requirement

Australia assesses student visa applications under the Genuine Student (GS) requirement, which replaced the earlier Genuine Temporary Entrant framework. The GS requirement forms a central part of the Subclass 500 visa assessment process.

The GS requirement expects detailed documentation of study plans, career goals, and connections to the home country. Case officers examine academic background, chosen course, financial resources, and future plans as a complete profile rather than in isolation. Any gaps, inconsistencies, or unclear funding structures may influence the overall assessment.

The application fee for the Subclass 500 student visa currently stands at AUD 2,000 for primary applicants lodging a new visa. Visa application charges are non-refundable in the event of refusal, which makes accurate preparation essential before submission.

Limited appeal options

Recent migration reforms have expanded the scope for certain student visa refusal reviews to be determined based on written submissions, without a guaranteed in-person hearing. Review rights remain available, but the format places greater weight on the original documentation submitted with the application.

This means the strength of the initial application and supporting documents becomes critical. There may be limited opportunity to clarify or explain intent after a refusal.

What this means for students

These settings require early planning and strong documentation. The visa application must present clear evidence of genuine study intent, sufficient financial capacity, and a logical connection between the chosen course and career direction.

Students must demonstrate they can cover living costs of AUD 29,710 per year, in addition to tuition fees. Financial documents should clearly show how funds are held and whether they can sustain the student throughout the duration of study.

Given the documentation-focused nature of assessment, incomplete or inconsistent applications may face closer examination.

Policy changes in Australia over the years

In recent years, Australia has strengthened financial and assessment benchmarks, including increasing the student visa fee for a primary applicant to AUD 2,000 and setting minimum living cost requirements at AUD 29,710 per year, excluding tuition, health cover, and travel.

In cities such as Sydney and Melbourne, realistic yearly expenses including tuition and living costs can range between AUD 40,000 and 60,000 depending on course and lifestyle. Student mobility decisions are increasingly shaped by financial planning and preparedness.

Moving forward

Australia continues to welcome international students with genuine academic goals. The pathway remains open for well-prepared applicants with clear documentation and transparent financial resources.

If you are planning to study in Australia, begin preparation early, work with qualified advisors, gather comprehensive documentation, and ensure every part of your application aligns with your academic and career objectives.

(Saurabh Arora, Founder & CEO, University Living)

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Published – February 13, 2026 05:14 pm IST