Document Checklist for Year 1–12 Student Applications to Australia

🧑‍🎓 Student Documents

Passport bio page
– Clear, valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay.
Birth certificate
– Must include English translation if not originally in English.
Recent passport-sized photograph
– Taken within the last 6 months.
Academic transcripts
– School reports for all academic years (translated into English if applicable).
English language evidence (if required)
– Usually only requested by selective/private schools; younger students often exempt.
Vaccination and immunisation records
– Required for school enrolment under state health regulations.
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
– For the full period of the visa (must be arranged before visa grant).
Welfare arrangements (for students under 18)
– May include:
- CAAW letter (Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation and Welfare)
- Parent/guardian consent forms
- Form 157N – Nomination of a student guardian in Australia (if staying with a relative)

👪 Parent or Legal Guardian Documents

Passport bio page of parent/legal guardian
Evidence of relationship to student
– E.g., student's birth certificate listing parent/guardian
Signed parental consent for travel and stay
– If not travelling with the student
Guardian visa (Subclass 590) – If accompanying the child
Police clearance certificate – For guardians staying in Australia

🏫 School Enrolment Documents

Completed school application form
– Provided by the school (can often be submitted online)
Application fee receipt
– Varies by school; non-refundable
Letter of Offer / Enrolment Agreement
– Signed acceptance of school terms
Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
– Required for visa application and issued after acceptance

🇦🇺 Visa Application Documents (Subclass 500 – Schools Sector)

Valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
– A clear explanation of the student’s study intentions and future plans
Proof of sufficient funds
– To cover tuition, living expenses, and travel (latest financial thresholds apply)
Evidence of OSHC (health insurance)
Visa application lodged via ImmiAccount
Visa application fee payment receipt
Health examinations
– HAP ID will be issued upon visa lodgement( if applicable)
Police clearance (for students aged 16 or over)

Comprehensive Guide to Studying in Australian Schools (Year 1 – Year 12) for International Students

Australia is a top destination for international students looking for high-quality primary and secondary education. The Australian school system is globally recognized, offering a structured, student-centered curriculum that prepares students for higher education and future careers.

This guide explores school levels (Year 1 – Year 12), subjects, pathways, tuition fees, living costs, and visa requirements for international students.

🎓 1. Understanding the Australian School System (Year 1 – Year 12)

Australia's education system is divided into Primary and Secondary schooling:

School Level	Year	Age Group
Primary School	Year 1 – Year 6	6 – 12 years old
Secondary School (Junior High)	Year 7 – Year 10	12 – 16 years old
Senior Secondary (Senior High)	Year 11 – Year 12	16 – 18 years old

📌 Year 11 and Year 12 are crucial for preparing students for university, vocational training, or career pathways.

🏫 2. Types of Schools in Australia

International students can enroll in different types of schools based on their preferences and budget:

🔹 Public (Government) Schools

✔ Lower tuition fees compared to private schools
✔ Government-funded with high educational standards
✔ Strict zoning rules – students must live within the school’s catchment area

📌 Some public schools offer specialist programs in music, sports, or technology.

🔹 Private & Independent Schools

✔ Higher tuition fees but offer smaller class sizes and premium facilities
✔ Many are faith-based (Catholic, Anglican, Islamic, etc.)
✔ Often provide boarding facilities for international students

📌 Private schools often have strong university links and scholarship programs.

🔹 International Schools

✔ Follow IB (International Baccalaureate) or UK, US, or French curricula
✔ Ideal for students transitioning from overseas education systems
✔ Provide multilingual instruction in some cases

📌 Popular among expat families and those seeking global university admissions.

📚 3. School Curriculum & Subjects

Australian schools follow the Australian Curriculum, which focuses on critical thinking, creativity, and real-world applications.

Core Subjects (Year 1 – Year 10)

✔ English – Writing, reading, speaking, and comprehension
✔ Mathematics – Algebra, geometry, statistics, and real-world applications
✔ Science – Biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science
✔ Humanities & Social Sciences – History, geography, civics, and economics
✔ Health & Physical Education – Sports, well-being, and fitness
✔ Arts & Languages – Visual arts, music, drama, and foreign languages

Senior Secondary Subjects (Year 11 – Year 12)

✔ STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) – Advanced maths, physics, chemistry, IT
✔ Business & Economics – Accounting, finance, marketing
✔ Creative Arts & Design – Media, photography, performing arts
✔ Vocational Training (VET Pathways) – Hospitality, trades, aged care

📌 Students can choose a university-focused or vocational pathway in Years 11 & 12.

🏛 4. Pathways After Year 12: University, VET, or Work

Upon completing Year 12, students can pursue:

🎓 University Pathway – ATAR-based entry to a Bachelor’s Degree
🔹 TAFE/VET Pathway – Diploma or Certificate courses for practical careers
💼 Employment – Direct entry into the workforce or apprenticeships

📌 Many international students use Year 11 & 12 as a pathway to Australian universities.

💰 5. Tuition Fees for International Students (2025)

Fees vary depending on the state, school type, and program.

🔹 Public (Government) Schools

✔ Primary School (Year 1 – Year 6): From AUD $16,500 per year
✔ Secondary School (Year 7 – Year 12): From AUD $24,000 per year

🔹 Private & Independent Schools

✔ Primary School (Year 1 – Year 6): From AUD $38,000 per year
✔ Secondary School (Year 7 – Year 12): From AUD $55,000 per year

📌 Some top-tier private schools charge over AUD $55,000 per year, especially those with boarding facilities.

🏡 6. Cost of Living for School Students in Australia

All costs listed below are in AUD per year per person and are approximate estimates depending on location, lifestyle, and accommodation choice.

Expense Category	Low Range (AUD)	High Range (AUD)	Details
🏠 Accommodation	$9,360	$21,840	Shared rental, homestay, student residence, or private rental
🍽 Food & Groceries	$6,720	$13,440	Cooking at home vs. regular dining out
🚇 Transport	$1,200	$4,800	Public transport; student concession rates may apply
🏥 Health Insurance (OSHC)	$450	$800	Required for visa (based on 12-month cover)
📚 Study Materials	$480	$1,000	Textbooks, uniforms (if applicable), aviation or lab equipment
🎭 Miscellaneous	$2,400	$6,500	Entertainment, internet, phone, clothing, etc.

📌 Costs vary depending on the city – Sydney and Melbourne are generally more expensive.

Australia Cost of Living Calculator Click Here

🛂 7. Visa Requirements: Student Visa (Subclass 500 - Schools Stream)

To study in Australia, international students must obtain a Student Visa (Subclass 500).

✅ Visa Requirements:

Enrollment in a CRICOS-registered school
Proof of financial capacity (minimum AUD $29,710 per year)
Health insurance (OSHC coverage)
English proficiency (varies by school)
Accommodation and welfare arrangements for students under 18

📌 Parents or guardians can apply for a Guardian Visa (Subclass 590) to accompany students.

🏆 8. Scholarships & Financial Assistance

Some Australian schools offer scholarships for high-achieving international students, such as:

🎓 Academic Excellence Scholarships – Partial tuition fee waivers
🎭 Arts & Sports Scholarships – For students excelling in music, drama, or sports
🌏 Home-Country Government Sponsorships – Some governments fund students to study abroad

📌 Check directly with schools for eligibility and application deadlines.

🔍 9. How to Apply to an Australian School?

🎯 Step 1: Choose a school & program that suits your goals
🎯 Step 2: Submit an application with academic records & English test scores
🎯 Step 3: Receive a Letter of Offer & Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE)
🎯 Step 4: Apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500)
🎯 Step 5: Arrange accommodation, flights & health insurance

📌 Not sure where to start? MyCourseFinder.com can help you find the best schools in Australia!

🌟 Final Thoughts: Why Choose an Australian School?

✅ Globally Recognized Education – High academic standards & modern learning approaches
✅ Pathways to University & Careers – Strong links to higher education & vocational training
✅ Safe & Multicultural Environment – Welcoming communities for international students
✅ Government Support & High Teaching Standards

📞 Need Help Applying?

🔹 Our expert advisors at MyCourseFinder.com can guide you!

🎓 Find the best school for your child’s future today! 🇦🇺✨

Student Personal Details

Title

Miss.

Mr.

Mrs.

Ms.

Mx.

Other

Given Names

Middle Name (if Applicable)

Family Name

Country of Passport

Phone Number

Email

Student Home Address

Full Address

Postcode

City

Country

Address in Australia (if available)

Full Address

Postcode

City

Telephone

Email

Please complete the following table from Grade K-12

Country of residence

Year Level

Name of your full-time day school, kindergarten or preschool

Language of school instruction

Select the Level you want to Study

Please note that Year 11 and Year 12 must be undertaken together.

Select Level

Kindergarten Studies (typically for children aged 6)

Primary School Studies (Years 1–6)

Junior Secondary Studies (Years 7–10)

Senior Secondary Certificate of Education (Years 11-12)

Select Exact Level

Select the grade the student will start in.

Select Exact Level Applied for:

Preferred Start of your program

Visa Details

Where will the applicants be when they lodge their visa?

Within Australia

Outside Australia

Does the applicant hold a current Australian visa?

Have you ever been granted an Australian visa?

Yes

No

If you currently have one of the types of Australian visas, complete this section.

Do you currently hold a valid Australian visa?

Yes

No

Visa Type

Visa

Visa Grant Number

Visa Expiry Date

Please confirm the date you arrived in australia for the first time. (if applicable)

Have you ever been refused an Australian visa?

Yes

No

+ Attach Visa Scan (optional)

Visa Application Details

Is the applicant applying for an Australian visa?

Yes

No

What visa is the Applicant applying for?

The correct visa for this application is 500P School-aged primary holder of international student visa (Schools sector)

Visa Approved English Language Test

English at School / Home

Are all subjects at your school taught in English?

Yes

No

Is English your native language?

Yes

No

Subject Selection

Compulsory Subjects - Please list the subjects that you must study in order to receive accrediation for your studies in your home country e.g, Mathematics, Science, Foreign Languages, Economics, Business Studies, Music, History etc.

Subject preference 1:*

Subject preference 2:*

Subject preference 3:*

Subject preference 4:*

Subject preference 5:*

Subject preference 6:*

Subject preference 7:*

School Selection

Select preferred school for enrolment in order of preference. Placement cannot be guaranteed at any of these schools. Suitability is determined by the school capacity and nominated welfare arrangement.

Preferred School 1

Preferred School 2

Preferred School 3

Sibling Information

Do you currently have sibling enrolled at/ applying for a school in Australia?

Yes

No

Accommodation and welfare

International students under 18 years of age must have appropriate accommodation and welfare arrangements for the period of study in Australia. Students under 18 years must have a suitable carer.

Parents must nominate one of the following accommodation and welfare options.

I, as a parent or legal guardian, will accompany the student on a Subclass 590 Student Guardian Visa and live with them in Australia. This arrangement is mandatory for students enrolled in Kindergarten to Year 4 and may also be selected for older students, subject to visa eligibility.

I nominate a direct relative, approved by the Department of Home Affairs, to provide accommodation, welfare, and airport reception for the student. This option is permitted for students in Years 5 to 8 and above but is not allowed for students in Kindergarten to Year 4, who must reside with a parent or legal guardian.

I nominate a person aged 25 years or older, residing in Australia, to provide accommodation, welfare, and airport reception for the student, and I request the school or education provider to approve this arrangement. This option is only available for students in Years 9 to 12 and is not suitable for younger year levels.

I request the school or education provider to arrange approved homestay accommodation, welfare, and airport reception for the student. This option is only available for students in Years 9 to 12, and the student will be placed in a registered and approved homestay environment that meets all care and safety standards.

Direct Relative Nomitated:Title

Given names

Family name

Relation Must Be a parent, step-parent, grandparent, step-grandparent, sibling, step-sibling, aunt, uncle, step-aunt, or step-uncle.

Sex

Country of Passport

Is the direct relative's usual country of residence Australia, and are they an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or a visa holder allowed to reside in Australia for the duration of the student’s visa or until the student turns 18?

Date of Birth: Day/Month/Year Must Be at least 21 years old.

Phone Number (e.g. +123456789)

Email

Education Level

Occupation

Is the direct relative of good character, as evidenced by police certificates?

Parent Nomination-a person over 25 years of age residing in NSWTitle

Given names

Family name

Relation

Sex

Country of Passport

Is the direct relative's usual country of residence Australia, and are they an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or a visa holder allowed to reside in Australia for the duration of the student’s visa or until the student turns 18?

Date of Birth: Day/Month/Year Must Be at least 21 years old.

Phone Number (e.g. +123456789)

Email

Education Level

Occupation

Is the direct relative of good character, as evidenced by police certificates?

OSHC Details

Do you currently have OSHC?

Yes

No

I will arrange and provide my OSHC policy once an offer of admission has been issued.

+ Attach Your OSHC Scan (optional)

Risk assessment

Additional information you would like to provide with this application - max 400 characters [optional]

Agent Authorization, Disclaimer, and Declaration

Authorization & Representation

I/We hereby authorize MYCOURSEFINDER.COM and its Nominated Qualified Education Agent Counsellor to act on my/our behalf for all matters related to this application, including but not limited to:

Submitting documents and inquiries.
Liaising with education providers, visa authorities, and relevant institutions.
Receiving and sharing information related to my/our application, visa status, and admission.

Consent & Privacy Acknowledgment

I/We acknowledge and consent to the collection, use, and disclosure of my/our personal information in accordance with the education provider’s privacy policy.

I/We confirm that I/we have read and understood the privacy statement and agree to its terms.
I/We understand that I/we have the right to access and request corrections to my/our personal information as required.

Legal & Compliance Acknowledgment

I/We confirm that I/we am/are fully aware of my/our legal obligations as an international student(s) in Australia and understand that providing false or misleading information may result in:

Rejection of my/our application.
Withdrawal of any offer.
Refusal of my/our visa or admission.

Furthermore, I/we acknowledge that the education provider reserves the right to reverse any decision if incorrect or fraudulent information is discovered.

Adult Student / Parent / Legal Guardian

The documents required for applications to Australia

Valid passport ( Required)