If you’re studying in Australia and aiming for skilled migration, you’ve likely come across the “two-year Australian study requirement.” Meeting this requirement can add valuable points to your migration application, bringing you closer to your goal. But what exactly does it involve, and how can it help you?
The two-year study requirement is more than just a time-based requirement. By completing an eligible course in Australia, you gain access to extra points, post-study work visas, and a chance to stay and work in Australia. From increasing your migration points to qualifying for the Graduate Temporary Subclass 485 visa, this requirement can be a crucial step in building a future in Australia.
Let’s take a closer look at what the Australian study requirement includes, how it benefits you, and how to ensure your studies meet the criteria.
Please Note: This article serves as a general guide to help you understand the topic, with information accurate as of the publication date. We recommend consulting a registered migration agent or check The Department of Home Affairs for precise, up-to-date guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.
Benefits of Meeting the Australian Study Requirement
Meeting the two-year Australian study requirement can do more than just tick a box on your skilled migration application. It opens up several advantages that can boost your eligibility and increase your points, helping you stand out among other applicants.
1. Extra Points for Skilled Migration
If you complete at least two years of study in Australia, you can earn 5 extra points toward your migration application. These points can be valuable in reaching the points needed for eligibility.
2. Additional Points for Studying in Regional Areas
If you study in a regional area (areas outside the major cities), you can earn even more 5 points. This is a great way to boost your score since the Australian government encourages students to study and live in these areas.
3. Points for Completing a Professional Year
Completing at least two years of study in Australia ,can lead to a successful Graduate Temporary Visa (Subclass 485). Moreover, You need a Graduate Temporary Visa (Subclass 485) to study a professional year . Completing a professional year in fields like accounting, IT, or engineering can give you an additional 5 points. A professional year combines training and work experience, helping you gain skills and improve your migration application.
With the Australian study requirement met, you can now look at eligibility for the Graduate Temporary Subclass 485 visa and how it supports your skilled migration goals.
Eligibility for the Graduate Temporary Visa (Subclass 485)
Once you meet the Australian study requirement, you may qualify for the Graduate Temporary Visa (Subclass 485), which allows international students to live and work in Australia temporarily after graduation. This visa offers a valuable opportunity to gain work experience, continue building migration points, and strengthen your skilled migration application.
- Study Requirement: You must have completed at least two years of study in Australia in an eligible course. This includes degrees, diplomas, and trade qualifications.
- Valid Student Visa: You need to either hold a valid student visa or have held one in the past six months when applying.
- English Language Skills: You must show a certain level of English language ability, usually by taking an approved English test.
- Health and Character Checks: You’ll need to pass health checks and meet Australia’s character requirements, which may include a police clearance.
- CRICOS Registration: Your course must be registered on CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students), ensuring it meets the standards required for international students.
How Long Can You Stay on the Subclass 485 Visa?
The length of this visa depends on the qualification you completed:
- 18 Months: For those with diplomas or trade qualifications
- 2 to 4 Years: For those with bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degrees
During this time, you have full work rights, allowing you to gain experience in your field and earn additional points for skilled migration. This work experience can also help if you later want to apply for an employer-sponsored visa.
The Graduate Temporary Visa (Subclass 485) is an excellent option for graduates who want to stay in Australia, work, and build their skilled migration profile. As we mentioned earlier, an important part of qualifying for this visa is ensuring your course is CRICOS-registered. Let’s explore in detail why CRICOS registration is so crucial for eligibility.
Importance of CRICOS Registration for Eligibility
To meet the Australian study requirement, your course must be registered on CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students). This registration ensures that the course is officially approved for international students in Australia, which is necessary for it to count toward skilled migration.
Why CRICOS Registration is Important
- Eligibility for Skilled Migration: Only CRICOS-registered courses count toward meeting the Australian study requirement. If your course isn’t on this list, it won’t contribute to your migration points, even if you completed the study in Australia.
- Quality Standards: CRICOS registration confirms that a course meets Australia’s standards for international students. This helps ensure you’re in a program recognized by the government, supporting both your visa eligibility and the quality of your education.
- Risks of Deregistration: Make sure your course stays on the CRICOS list throughout your studies. If it’s removed from CRICOS before you complete your studies, it may no longer count toward the study requirement.
By choosing a CRICOS-registered course and keeping track of its status, you can be assured that your studies will count toward your migration goals and meet this important eligibility requirement.
With this important eligibility criterion in place, it’s equally important to understand the expenses involved in meeting the two-year study requirement and applying for the Graduate Temporary Subclass 485 visa.
Fees and Costs to Consider
Meeting the two-year Australian study requirement and applying for the Graduate Temporary Subclass 485 visa involve some important costs. Here’s a breakdown of the key expenses:
1. Tuition Fees: Tuition fees vary depending on the institution and program and are often the largest expense in meeting the study requirement.
2. Visa Application Fee: The application fee for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) is AUD 1,945.
3. Additional Expenses : Other expenses may include –
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- Medical Examinations:Health checks are a required part of the process and may vary in cost.
- Police Checks: You may need police clearance certificates from each country you’ve lived in for 12 months or more over the past 10 years. The cost varies by country.
- English Language Tests: If required, tests like IELTS can cost approximately AUD 410.
- Translation and Certification: If your documents aren’t in English, translation and certification services may add to your expenses.
4. Cost of Living: While studying, you’ll need to budget for living expenses, which can vary based on location and lifestyle.
Preparing for these fees and budgeting ahead can help you focus on your studies and the skilled migration process without unexpected financial worries.
Please note: The fees listed here are approximate and subject to change. For the latest information on visa and other related costs, please refer to The Department of Home Affairs or contact a Registered Migration Agent.
Now, let’s move to the next step, understanding the best timing for your application and some useful tips to make the process easier.
Timing and Tips for Applying for the Graduate Temporary Subclass 485 Visa
Applying for the Graduate Temporary Subclass 485 visa comes with specific timing requirements, so knowing when and how to apply can be helpful. This visa allows you to stay and work in Australia after your studies, giving you time to gain experience and earn extra points for skilled migration.
When to Apply?
- Apply Within Six Months of Completing Your Course: You must apply within six months after completing your course. Your “completion date” is usually the day your final results are released, not the graduation ceremony.
- Apply Before Your Student Visa Expires: Make sure you apply for the Subclass 485 visa or another visa before your student visa expires to avoid any gaps in your stay.
Points to Remember
- Claim Points for Australian Study: You can claim the points earned for meeting the Australian study requirement even after the six-month application period, which can still support your skilled migration application.
- Organize Required Documents Early: Prepare essential documents like your academic transcripts, proof of completion, and English proficiency test results before you apply to avoid last-minute delays.
- Stay Informed on Visa Requirements: Requirements for the Subclass 485 visa can change, so it’s a good idea to check the latest updates on the Department of Home Affairs website or consult a migration expert.
Applying at the right time with the right documents will help you stay in Australia smoothly and continue toward your skilled migration plans.
Final Thoughts
Meeting Australia’s two-year study requirement is an important step toward skilled migration. Completing an eligible course in Australia can earn you extra points for your application, make you eligible for the Graduate Temporary Subclass 485 visa, and allow you to work and gain experience in Australia.
By choosing a CRICOS-registered course, staying on top of visa timing, and preparing your documents early, you’ll be in a good position to meet the study requirements and work toward skilled migration.
For expert guidance, reach out to a migration agency like Knowbal, which offers personalized support with study requirements, visa applications, and skilled migration pathways.
Contact Knowbal today.
