Extending your Australian student visa is a process many international students need to go through — whether because their course duration has increased, they are completing a new qualification, or they need additional time to finish their current course.
Is "Extending" the Right Term?
Technically, Australia does not issue "extensions" to student visas. Instead, you apply for a new student visa (subclass 500) while your current visa is still valid. If your application is lodged before your current visa expires, you are generally granted a bridging visa that allows you to remain legally in Australia while your new application is processed.
When Can You Apply?
You can apply for a new student visa at any point while you are in Australia on a valid student visa. The important rule is: lodge your new application before your current visa expires. Do not wait until the last week — processing can take time, and an expired visa with no bridging visa in place is a serious legal problem.
Who Qualifies?
To be granted a new student visa, you must have a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered provider, maintain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), meet health and character requirements, demonstrate genuine temporary entrant (GTE) intention, and have sufficient funds to support yourself.
The Application Process
Step 1: Receive your new CoE from your education provider.
Step 2: Renew your OSHC to cover the full duration of your new course.
Step 3: Gather required documents — passport, CoE, OSHC certificate, financial evidence, academic transcripts, and a GTE statement if required.
Step 4: Lodge online via ImmiAccount at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au. The current application fee is AUD $1,600 (check homeaffairs.gov.au for the current fee).
Step 5: A Bridging Visa A (BVA) is granted automatically once you lodge a valid application before your current visa expires.
Processing Times
Most student visa applications are processed within 4 to 8 weeks, though some take longer. Check current estimated processing times at homeaffairs.gov.au.
Common Reasons for Refusal
- Not maintaining satisfactory academic progress in your previous course
- OSHC not covering the full period
- Insufficient financial evidence
- Previous visa condition breaches (such as working more than permitted hours)
- GTE concerns — particularly if you have been in Australia for a long time with a pattern of course changes
Do You Need a Migration Agent?
For a straightforward extension (same institution, same course level, strong academic record), many students apply successfully without professional help. If your case involves any complication — prior refusals, course changes, financial issues — engaging a registered migration agent in Australia is strongly recommended.
Explore more
Find your perfect consultancy.
Matched to your country & study goals — free.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to extend a student visa in Australia?
The current student visa (subclass 500) application fee is AUD $1,600 as of 2026. This fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome. Always check the current fee at homeaffairs.gov.au before applying.
How long does a student visa extension take in Australia?
Current processing times for student visa applications in Australia are typically 4 to 8 weeks, though some applications take longer. A bridging visa keeps you legal while you wait.
Can I work while my student visa extension is being processed?
If you are on a Bridging Visa A (BVA) while your new student visa is being processed, you can generally work under the same conditions as your previous student visa. During semester, work is typically limited to 48 hours per fortnight. Check your specific bridging visa conditions in ImmiAccount.
What happens if my student visa expires before I apply for a new one?
If your student visa expires before you lodge a new application, you will be in Australia unlawfully. This is a serious situation that can result in visa cancellation and affect future applications. Contact a registered migration agent immediately if this has happened — do not ignore it.
Find a Verified Consultancy
Browse 800+ consultancies with real student reviews — sorted by rating and verification status.