Student Visas: What You Need to Know Before Applying
Applying for a student visa is one of the most important steps when planning to study abroad. If you’re planning to study in Australia or the UK, you’ll need to obtain the appropriate student visa before travelling, in accordance with each country’s immigration requirements.
Many students and parents have questions about the visa application process, such as: What documents do I need? How long does the application take? How much money do I need to show? Can my visa be refused?
This FAQ page provides answers to the most common questions about Australian and UK student visas, including application procedures, required documents, visa fees, financial requirements, processing times, and important conditions to help you prepare with confidence.
At One Education, our experienced counsellors guide you through every step of the application process from choosing the right course and preparing your documents to submitting your student visa application and getting ready to travel. Our expert support helps make your study abroad journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Last updated: July 2026
Student Visa Application Process
A student visa is a visa issued by the government of your destination country that allows international students to study at an approved educational institution. It permits you to stay in the country for the duration of your course and, depending on the country’s immigration rules, may also allow you to work part-time while studying.
For Thai students planning to study in Australia, you will generally need to apply for the Student Visa (Subclass 500). If you are planning to study in the UK, you will need to apply for a Student Visa. To be eligible, you must have an official offer from your education provider such as an Offer Letter, Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for Australia, or a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for the UK and meet the country’s financial, English language, and other visa requirements.
Preparing a complete and accurate visa application is essential to maximise your chances of approval and help avoid unnecessary delays during the assessment process.
At One Education, we provide free expert support for Australian and UK student visa applications. Our experienced counsellors guide you through every step, from preparing and checking your documents to submitting your visa application, ensuring you feel confident throughout your study abroad journey.
If you’re planning to study in Australia or the United Kingdom, it’s recommended to start preparing your student visa application 3–6 months before your course begins. This allows sufficient time to apply to universities, receive your offer, prepare the required documents, pay your tuition fees or deposit, and complete the visa application process without unnecessary stress.
You cannot apply for a student visa immediately after choosing a university. There are several important steps that must be completed first, including receiving an Offer Letter, accepting your offer, meeting the university’s tuition payment requirements, and obtaining the official documents needed for your visa application. For students studying in Australia, this is the Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). For those studying in the United Kingdom, it is the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). You must receive these documents before you can submit your student visa application.
Although student visa processing for both Australia and the UK often takes only a few weeks, processing times can be longer during peak application periods before the start of each academic intake. In some cases, applicants may also be asked to provide additional documents, complete a medical examination, or undergo further verification, which can extend the processing time. Starting your application early helps reduce the risk of visa delays that could affect your travel plans.
In addition to preparing your visa application, you should also plan ahead for other important requirements, including your budget, passport validity, financial evidence, health insurance (where required by your study destination), and arranging accommodation and flights after your visa has been approved. Early preparation will help ensure a smooth transition to studying abroad.
If you apply through One Education, our experienced study abroad advisors will guide you through every step of the process from creating your application timeline and helping you choose the right country, university, and degree programme, to preparing your documents, reviewing your student visa application, and monitoring your application progress. Our goal is to make the entire process as smooth and stress-free as possible, so you can begin your studies with confidence.
📝 Related Blogs:
The processing time for a student visa in Australia and the United Kingdom varies depending on the country, the time of year you apply, and whether your application is complete. In general, once you have submitted all the required documents, visa processing typically takes from a few weeks to around 1–2 months. During peak application periods, particularly before university intakes, processing times may be longer due to the high volume of applications.
However, it’s important to plan for more than just the visa processing time. Before you can submit your visa application, you must first complete several key steps, including applying to your chosen university, waiting for your admission decision, paying your tuition fees or tuition deposit, obtaining the required visa documents—such as a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for Australia or a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for the United Kingdom and preparing your financial evidence and other supporting documents.
For this reason, it is recommended that students begin planning their study abroad journey and visa application at least 3–6 months before their course starts. This provides enough time to complete every stage of the process and allows for any unexpected delays, such as requests for additional documents or a medical examination required by the immigration authorities.
Preparing a complete and accurate application from the outset is one of the most effective ways to ensure a smooth visa process and minimise the risk of delays.
If you apply through One Education, our experienced study abroad advisors will help you create a personalised application timeline, review all of your documents, and guide you through every step of the visa process. We’ll monitor your application progress to help ensure you’re fully prepared to travel and begin your studies on schedule.
In most cases, no. Receiving an Offer Letter is an important milestone, but it does not mean you can apply for a student visa immediately. Before you can submit your visa application, you must first complete the university’s enrolment requirements and obtain the official document required for your visa application.
🇦🇺 Australia
After receiving your Offer Letter, you will typically need to:
- Accept your offer from the university.
- Pay the required tuition fees or tuition deposit.
- Arrange Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
- Meet any other enrolment conditions specified by the university.
Once these steps have been completed, the university will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). The CoE is the official document required to apply for an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500). An Offer Letter alone cannot be used to submit your visa application.
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
The process is similar in the United Kingdom. After accepting your offer and fulfilling the university’s conditions such as paying the required tuition deposit and submitting any outstanding documents, the university will issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
The CAS is the official reference document required to apply for a UK Student Visa. Like Australia, an Offer Letter by itself is not sufficient for a student visa application.
What Should I Do Next?
Although receiving an Offer Letter confirms that you have been accepted by the university, it is not the final document needed for your student visa. You must first obtain:
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for Australia, or
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for the United Kingdom.
Only after receiving these documents can you begin your student visa application.
If you apply through One Education, our experienced study abroad advisors will support you throughout the entire process from accepting your university offer and arranging your tuition payment to obtaining your CoE or CAS, preparing your visa documents, and submitting your student visa application. We’ll help ensure every step is completed accurately and on time, making your journey to studying abroad as smooth as possible.
Required Documents and Eligibility
The documents required for a student visa application vary slightly depending on the country. However, if you’re planning to study in Australia or the United Kingdom, you will generally need to prepare the following:
- A valid passport.
- An offer of admission from your chosen institution:
- For Australia, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
- For the United Kingdom, you must have a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
These are essential documents required for your student visa application.
- Financial evidence demonstrating that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees and living expenses during your studies. The required documents and evidence vary depending on the country’s immigration requirements and your individual circumstances.
- An English language test result, such as IELTS Academic, PTE Academic, or another English qualification accepted by the relevant immigration authority (if required by the university or visa regulations).
- Academic documents, including your transcript and graduation certificate (or equivalent qualifications).
- Identity documents and any additional supporting documents that may be requested by the immigration authorities, depending on your individual circumstances.
For students applying to Australia, you must also arrange Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your stay. In addition, applicants are required to meet the Genuine Student (GS) requirement by providing information that demonstrates their genuine intention to study in Australia.
For students applying to the United Kingdom, additional documents may be required depending on your course and personal circumstances. These may include proof of English language proficiency, financial documents, or a tuberculosis (TB) test certificate for applicants from countries where this is required under UK immigration rules.
Please note that the exact documents required may vary depending on your nationality, chosen university, degree programme, and individual immigration history. It is important to check the latest visa requirements before submitting your application and to prepare all documents well in advance to avoid unnecessary delays.
If you apply through One Education, our experienced study abroad advisors will carefully review every document before your visa application is submitted, ensuring that your application is complete, accurate, and complies with the latest immigration requirements for your chosen destination.
The amount of money you need to demonstrate for a student visa application depends on the country where you plan to study. In general, applicants must show that they have sufficient funds to cover both tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of their studies, in accordance with the immigration requirements of their chosen destination.
🇦🇺 Australia
For an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500), applicants may be required to provide evidence that they have sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and the expenses of any accompanying family members (if applicable).
The Australian Government currently sets the minimum annual living cost for the primary student applicant at AUD 29,710. If you are travelling with a spouse, partner, or dependent children, you will need to demonstrate additional funds based on the latest government requirements. Depending on your individual circumstances, the Department of Home Affairs may also request further financial evidence during the visa assessment process.
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
For a UK Student Visa, applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover their first year’s tuition fees (or the full tuition fees if the course lasts less than one year), plus living expenses.
The current maintenance requirement is:
- £1,529 per month (for up to 9 months) if you will be studying in London.
- £1,171 per month (for up to 9 months) if you will be studying outside London.
In most cases, these funds must be held in your bank account for the required period specified by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) before you submit your visa application, unless you qualify for an exemption under the current UK immigration rules.
The Required Amount May Vary
The exact amount you need to show will depend on several factors, including:
- Your university’s tuition fees.
- The city where you will be studying.
- The duration of your programme.
- Any tuition fees you have already paid.
- Scholarships or tuition fee discounts you have received.
- Whether you will be travelling with dependants.
For this reason, it is important to calculate the required financial evidence using your university’s tuition fees and the latest immigration requirements before submitting your visa application.
If you apply through One Education, our experienced study abroad advisors will help you calculate the correct amount of funds required, review your financial documents, and ensure your evidence meets the latest Australian and UK student visa requirements. Our comprehensive support helps minimise the risk of visa delays and gives you greater confidence throughout the application process.
It is important to check the latest information from the official government websites before submitting your application.
🌐 You can find the most up-to-date information here:
Australia: immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
UK: www.gov.uk
Whether you need a medical examination depends on the country where you will study, the length of your course, and your individual circumstances.
🇦🇺 Studying in Australia
Most international students are required to undergo a medical examination as part of their Student Visa (Subclass 500) application.
After you submit your visa application, the Australian Department of Home Affairs will advise which health examinations you need to complete. These may include a general medical examination and a chest X-ray, depending on factors such as your age, intended length of stay, and travel or residence history.
🇬🇧 Studying in the UK
Applicants from certain countries, including Thailand, who plan to stay in the UK for more than six months must provide a Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate from an approved clinic before applying for a Student Visa.
Unlike Australia, the UK does not generally require a full medical examination for student visa applicants. In most cases, only a valid TB test certificate is required.
At One Education, we provide expert guidance on health examination requirements, booking your medical or TB test, and preparing the necessary documents for your Australian or UK student visa application, helping to ensure a smooth and successful visa process.
Student Work Rights
Yes. Both Australia and the United Kingdom allow international students holding a valid student visa to work while studying. However, students must comply with the work conditions and visa regulations set by the immigration authorities in each country.
🇦🇺 Australia
Students holding an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500) can generally work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session. During official university holidays, students are usually permitted to work unlimited hours.
Please note that students enrolled in a Master by Research or Doctoral (PhD) programme may have different work rights in accordance with the latest Australian Government regulations.
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, international students enrolled in a full-time degree programme are generally permitted to work:
- Up to 20 hours per week during term time.
- Full-time during official university vacations, where permitted by the conditions of their visa.
However, work rights may vary depending on the type of course and the conditions stated on your individual visa. You should always check your visa conditions before starting employment.
Benefits of Working While Studying
Working part-time while studying can provide many valuable benefits, including:
- Gaining practical work experience.
- Improving your English language and communication skills.
- Developing transferable workplace skills.
- Building a professional network with employers and colleagues.
- Earning additional income to help with everyday living expenses.
However, your studies should always remain your top priority. It is important not to exceed the maximum number of working hours permitted by your student visa, as doing so may affect your immigration status and your right to remain in the country.
If you apply through One Education, our experienced study abroad advisors can provide the latest guidance on international student work rights in both Australia and the United Kingdom. We’ll also help you plan your study, budget, and student life, so you can successfully balance your academic commitments with part-time employment.
📝 Related Blogs
- Can You Work While Studying in Australia? A Complete Guide for International Students
- Can You Work While Studying in the UK? A Complete Guide for International Students
Student Visa Conditions
Although Australia and the United Kingdom are both popular study destinations for international students, their student visa requirements differ in several important areas, including the application process, required documents, work rights, and conditions during your stay. Understanding these differences can help you choose the destination that best suits your study and career goals.
🇦🇺 Australia
To apply for an Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500), you must first obtain a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your education provider before submitting your visa application.
Applicants are also required to meet the Genuine Student (GS) requirement by demonstrating that their primary purpose for travelling to Australia is to study. In addition, all international students must hold Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of their stay in Australia.
Students are generally permitted to work up to 48 hours per fortnight while their course is in session and may work unlimited hours during official university holidays.
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
To apply for a UK Student Visa, you must first receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from your university.
Applicants must also provide financial evidence that meets the requirements of UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
In general, international students enrolled in a full-time degree programme may work:
- Up to 20 hours per week during term time.
- Full-time during official university holidays, where permitted by the conditions of their visa.
Please note that work rights may vary depending on your course and the conditions attached to your individual visa. Immigration policies are also subject to change.
Health Insurance Requirements
One of the key differences between the two countries is their healthcare requirement.
- Australia: International students must purchase Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) before applying for a student visa.
- United Kingdom: Students are required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of their visa application. This allows them to access healthcare through the National Health Service (NHS) during their stay.
Which Country Is Right for You?
Both Australia and the UK offer excellent opportunities for international students to study and work while completing their degree. However, visa requirements, work rights, healthcare arrangements, and immigration policies may change over time, so it is important to check the latest government guidance before submitting your application.
If you’re unsure which destination best matches your academic goals, budget, or post-study career plans, the experienced study abroad advisors at One Education can help you compare visa requirements, study costs, work rights, and post-graduation opportunities. We’ll help you make an informed decision and guide you through every step of your study abroad journey.
It is important to check the latest information from the official government websites before submitting your application.
🌐 You can find the most up-to-date information here:
Australia: immi.homeaffairs.gov.au
UK: www.gov.uk
Common Student Visa Questions
If your student visa application is refused, there’s no need to panic. In many cases, you may still have the opportunity to address the issues and submit a new application. The first step is to carefully review the visa refusal notice issued by the immigration authorities to understand the reasons for the refusal. This will help you identify the issues and prepare a stronger application before taking any further action.
A student visa may be refused for a variety of reasons, including incomplete documentation, insufficient financial evidence, inconsistencies between your application and supporting documents, or an inability to demonstrate that your primary intention is to study in accordance with the requirements of the student visa. Each country has its own immigration policies, and every application is assessed individually based on the applicant’s circumstances and the evidence provided.
If your visa is refused, it is important not to submit a new application immediately without first addressing the original reasons for the refusal. Reapplying with the same issues unresolved may lead to another refusal. Instead, you should seek professional advice to review your case, identify the underlying issues, strengthen your supporting documents, and ensure your next application fully meets the relevant visa requirements.
If you apply through One Education, our experienced study abroad advisors will carefully review your visa refusal notice, analyse the reasons for the decision, recommend the most appropriate course of action, and, where necessary, liaise with your university on your behalf. We’ll help you prepare a stronger application for your next submission. Please note that the possibility of reapplying and the appropriate next steps will depend on the specific reason for the visa refusal and the immigration regulations of your chosen study destination at the time of application.
Applying for a student visa for Australia or the United Kingdom is generally a straightforward process if you prepare all the required documents and follow the application procedures correctly. However, there are several factors that may delay the processing of your visa application or result in requests for additional information, which could affect your travel plans and course commencement.
One of the most common causes of delays is incomplete or inconsistent documentation. This may include insufficient financial evidence, discrepancies between the information provided in your application form and your supporting documents, a passport that is close to expiry, or incorrect details on essential documents such as your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for Australia or Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for the United Kingdom. If the immigration authorities require additional information or clarification, they may ask you to submit further documents, which can extend the processing time.
Another common reason for delays is applying during peak intake periods, such as the months leading up to the start of a university semester. During these periods, immigration authorities receive a high volume of applications, and processing times may be longer than usual, even if your application is complete.
In some cases, applicants may also be required to undergo a medical examination, provide additional background information, or submit further supporting documents based on their individual circumstances. These requests are a normal part of the visa assessment process and do not necessarily indicate that your visa application will be refused.
The best way to minimise the risk of delays is to start preparing your application at least 3–6 months before your course begins, carefully review all supporting documents for accuracy, submit your visa application as soon as all required documents are available, and respond promptly to any requests from the immigration authorities.
If you apply through One Education, our experienced study abroad advisors will review every document before your visa application is submitted, monitor the progress of your application, and assist you in responding to any requests for additional information. Our comprehensive support helps reduce the risk of delays and gives you greater confidence throughout the student visa application process.
📝 Related Blogs:
Yes. One Education provides comprehensive guidance and support throughout the student visa application process for both Australia and the United Kingdom. From the moment you begin planning your studies until you are ready to travel, our experienced study abroad advisors are here to assist you every step of the way.
Our team will explain the student visa process, help you prepare the required documents, and ensure your application meets the latest immigration requirements for your chosen destination. We carefully review your documents and provide personalised advice to help you submit your visa application accurately and with confidence.
Our visa support services include:
- Guidance on preparing the required visa documents.
- Reviewing your documents for accuracy and completeness before submission.
- Explaining student visa requirements and conditions.
- Assisting with the steps after receiving your university offer, including obtaining your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for Australia or Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for the UK.
- Advising on financial documentation and helping you plan the ideal timeline for your visa application based on your course start date.
Beyond visa assistance, One Education offers end-to-end support throughout your study abroad journey. Our services include helping you choose the right degree programme and university, submitting your university applications, tracking your application progress, advising on available scholarships, assisting with accommodation arrangements, and providing a Pre-Departure Briefing to help you prepare for life overseas.
Please note that student visa decisions are made solely by the immigration authorities of each country, and no education agency or advisor can guarantee a successful visa outcome. However, receiving expert guidance and preparing a complete and accurate application from the beginning can significantly reduce the risk of errors and help ensure you are well prepared throughout the visa application process.
