How to Get An Australian Student Visa from Nepal in 2025?

Australia has become one of the most popular study destinations for Nepali students, offering globally recognized degrees, post-study work opportunities, and a high standard of living. Every year, thousands of students choose to study in Australia from Nepal to gain quality education, international exposure, and career growth opportunities. If you dream of an Australian education too, but are unsure about the process, requirements, cost, or visa, this guide will walk you through everything step by step.

Whether you’re planning a diploma, bachelor’s, or master’s degree, Australia offers flexible entry pathways, scholarship opportunities, and a friendly learning environment. In this blog, we’ll also show you how to apply to study in Australia and build a secure academic and professional future.

Top Reasons Nepali Students Choose to Study in Australia

Nepali students choose to study in Australia because it offers world-class education, diverse courses, and strong career opportunities. The country has globally ranked universities, a multicultural environment, and post-study work options that make it attractive. As a Nepali student, you enjoy the following benefits of studying in Australia:

1. Globally Ranked Universities & Quality Education

Australia is home to some of the world’s most prestigious institutions, like the University of Melbourne, Monash University, UNSW, and the Australian National University (ANU). Degrees from Australian universities are internationally recognized and highly valued, even in other top study destinations such as the USA, Canada, and the UK.

2. Affordable Study Options Compared to Other Countries

Compared to countries like the USA and UK, Australia offers affordable tuition fees and reasonable living costs, along with various tuition discounts and scholarships for international students.

3. Post-Study Work Opportunities (Up to 3–6 Years PSW Visa)

After completing their degree, Nepali students may be eligible for a Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), commonly known as a post-study work visa, which allows 3–6 years of work rights depending on qualification and study location.

4. Safe, Welcoming, & Multicultural Learning Environment

Australia is known for its friendly people, modern lifestyle, and multicultural society, making it easier for Nepali students to adapt and feel at home.

5. PR (Permanent Residency) Prospects for Skilled Graduates

Australia has skilled migration pathways, meaning students who complete degrees in high-demand fields and gain local experience can apply for PR through programs like Subclass 189, 190, or 491.

Requirements to Study in Australia for Nepalese Students

To study in Australia from Nepal, students must meet minimum academic requirements, English language criteria, and financial eligibility as set by universities and the Australian Department of Home Affairs. These are the major requirements for Nepalese students to study in Australia:

1. Academic Requirements

Academic requirements vary depending on the study level you choose. Below is a simple breakdown:

2. English Language Requirements

Most universities require proof of English proficiency, usually through standardised tests like IELTS, PTE, or TOEFL. This assessment is typically mandatory to make sure you can understand the English lectures in the US universities. The required minimum score varies based on course level, but here’s a general overview:

3. Financial Requirements (Proof of Funds)

You need a minimum bank balance of AUD 29,710 to study in Australia. Nepali students must show sufficient proof of funds to cover tuition and living expenses for at least one academic year. This is a mandatory requirement for the Subclass 500 Student Visa to prove that you can manage your living expenses for the first year in Australia.

You must be able to show financial evidence such as a bank balance, savings, fixed deposits, or an education loan. The fund amount should cover:

• One-year tuition fee (varies by university)
• Cost of living: Minimum AUD 29,710 per year
• Travel cost: AUD 2,000
• Health insurance (OSHC): Required for the entire study duration

Students can show funds from their own account or through a financial sponsor, such as parents or close family members. Bank statements must be genuine and traceable to avoid visa refusal. If using an education loan, ensure it is approved by a recognized bank and supported by proper documents.

Documents Required for Studying in Australia 

You need several key documents to study in Australia, including a valid passport, academic certificates, transcripts, proof of funds, and English proficiency scores. These documents prove your eligibility for admission, satisfy visa requirements, and demonstrate your genuine intent to study. 

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay; it is your primary ID for visa and travel.
• Academic Certificates & Transcripts: Includes SEE/SLC, +2, bachelor’s or master’s documents to prove academic eligibility.
• English Proficiency Test Scores (IELTS/PTE/TOEFL): Required to show English ability; master’s programs usually need higher scores.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): A personal statement explaining your study goals, course choice, and career plans.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Written by teachers/employers to verify your academic performance or work ethic.
• Updated Resume/CV: Summarizes your education, skills, and any work experience—important for master’s applicants.
• Proof of Funds / Sponsorship Documents: Shows financial capacity for tuition and living costs through bank balance, loans, or sponsor income proof.
• Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): Issued after you accept an offer; required to apply for the Subclass 500 student visa.
• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): Mandatory health insurance for international students during their studies in Australia.
• Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Documents: Prove your genuine study intentions through a personal statement and supporting evidence. 

What are the Intakes for Studying in Australia?

The main intakes in Australia are in February, July, and October/November. The universities set specific application deadlines ahead of each term. While most of them share a similar timeline, specific application deadlines and starting dates can differ by college and university. This is a general overview of major intakes for studying in Australia:

How Much Money is Required to Study in Australia?

On average, international students in Australia need AUD 20,000–45,000 per year for tuition and AUD 14,000–21,000 per year for living costs. The total money required to study in Australia depends on your chosen program, city, processing plans, and lifestyle choices. 

1. Tuition Fees by Program Level

Tuition fees in Australia vary based on the type and level of course:

2. Living Expenses for International Students

On average, international students spend around AUD 1,200–1,800 per month for living in Australia. This totals around AUD 14,000–21,000 for a year of accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses. This cost, however, can largely vary based on your city and lifestyle choices. 

Factors affecting the cost of living in Australia:

• City of study: Sydney and Melbourne are more expensive than Brisbane, Adelaide, or Perth.
• Accommodation choice: Shared apartments or homestays are cheaper than private stays. On-campus housing is also affordable, but living in dorms may limit your flexibility and privacy. Students usually manage work, study, and expenses better with shared housing.
• Lifestyle habits: Eating out frequently, traveling, and entertainment can increase costs.

3. Health Insurance (OSHC) & Visa Fees

Australia requires Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the entire duration of your stay. This insurance typically costs AUD 500–700 per year. For a student visa application, the Subclass 500 visa costs AUD 2000 as of October 2025. Additional costs may include biometrics, document translation, or medical checks.

Scholarships for Nepalese Students in Australia

Australian government, universities, and private organizations provide prestigious scholarships and funding programs for international students, including those from Nepal. Scholarships in Australia for Nepalese students generally fall into three main categories: government scholarships, university-based scholarships, and private or merit-based scholarships. Each category has its own focus, eligibility criteria, and benefits.

1. Government Scholarships

Government scholarships are funded by the Australian federal or state governments. Australia Awards Scholarships (AAS), Destination Australia Scholarships, and Research Training Program (RTP) are the most renowned Australian government-funded scholarships. They are designed to attract talented international students and promote educational exchange. These scholarships are highly competitive but usually cover full tuition, living allowances, travel costs, and health insurance.

2. University-Based Scholarships

Most universities in Australia offer scholarships specifically for international students, often based on academic merit or program-specific achievements. These scholarships can cover full or partial tuition fees, and some even provide additional support for living costs.

Examples include:

• Monash University International Merit Scholarship – rewards high-achieving international students with tuition discounts.
• UNSW International Scholarships – helps top-performing students reduce tuition expenses.
• University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships – supports postgraduate research students with tuition and living stipends.

University scholarships are usually easier to apply for if you already have an offer letter, and they may be renewable for multiple years based on your academic performance.

3. Private & Merit-Based Scholarships

Private scholarships are offered by foundations, organizations, and corporations. They often focus on academic excellence, leadership, or community service, and sometimes target students pursuing specific courses or fields. These scholarships are helpful for students who might not qualify for government or university scholarships but still have strong academic performance or other achievements.

Part-Time Jobs in Australia for Nepalese Students

Nepali students can work part-time to support their studies while on a student visa. You are allowed up to 48 hours per fortnight during semesters and unlimited hours during breaks, in jobs like retail, hospitality, tutoring, or campus-based roles. Part-time work helps cover living costs, gain professional experience, and improve English and workplace skills.

1. Working Hours & Minimum Wage in Australia

As an international student on a Subclass 500 visa, you are allowed to work up to 48 hours per fortnight during semesters and unlimited hours during semester breaks. You can distribute these working hours flexibly for each week, as per your schedule. There’s no strict restriction on working hours per week, but balancing the timings evenly helps you manage a uniform routine and also avoids suspiciousness. 
 

Note that it is important to follow these rules because violating work conditions can affect your visa status. Work hours count for all paid work, including internships and casual employment. 

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Employers are also required to follow Australian labor laws, so you are entitled to minimum wages and safe working conditions. 

2. Average Income and Saving Potential

The minimum wage in Australia is AUD 24.95 per hour, you will be earning at least AUD 2,395.2 every month working part-time. This can generally cover groceries, transportation, and personal expenses. The pay can be even higher depending on your role and location. 
 

During breaks or vacations, working full-time can further help save for tuition or other major expenses, making studying abroad more financially manageable.

3. Popular Part-Time Job Options for Students

International students often take in part-time jobs in retail, hospitality roles like barista, bartending, waiters, and on-campus roles like librarian and research assistants. Here is the latest average pay per hour in Australia for international students in 2025 for the requested roles, summarized in a table:

While part-time work helps, it should not replace planning for tuition and living costs. Treat it as supplementary support rather than the main funding source. Prioritize your studies and use part-time work to gain experience and offset minor expenses.

Best Courses to Study in Australia for Nepali Students

IT & Computer Science, Nursing, Business & Management, and Childhood Education are some of the best courses to study in Australia for international students. These programs offer high employability, scholarships, and post-study work visa advantages.

1. IT & Computer Science

IT and Computer Science are among the most sought-after fields for international students in Australia. Graduates in software development, data science, cybersecurity, and AI are highly employable, with many opportunities for part-time work during studies and full-time employment afterward.

2. Nursing

Studying nursing in Australia opens doors to high-demand healthcare roles. Nurses are consistently needed across Australia, and completing a nursing degree can make you eligible for extended post-study work visas. Licensing through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) is required to practice.

3. Business & Management

Business and management courses, including a Master's in Business Education (MBA), are popular among Nepali students. These programs develop leadership, strategic thinking, and analytical skills. Graduates often find opportunities in finance, consulting, and marketing, and some roles may support pathways to PR.

4. Health Sciences

Health sciences degrees, including allied health, physiotherapy, and pharmacy, are in high demand. Graduates can access both full-time work and internship opportunities, gaining professional experience while living in Australia.

5. Chartered Accountancy

Chartered accountancy is a strong choice for students interested in finance and accounting. Australian accounting qualifications are recognized globally, and accounting professionals are listed on Australia’s skilled occupation lists, supporting pathways to PR.

6. Engineering & Construction

Engineering and construction courses are excellent options for students interested in civil, mechanical, electrical, or mining engineering. Graduates are highly employable in infrastructure, development projects, and urban planning, with clear post-study work opportunities.

7. Early Childhood Education

Early Childhood Education (ECE) is another in-demand sector, with opportunities to work in childcare centers and preschools. ECE qualifications often lead to skilled migration opportunities, making it a strategic choice for students looking at long-term prospects.
 

When choosing a course, consider your interests, career goals, job demand, and PR pathways. Combining your passion with a course that aligns with Australia’s skill shortages can make your study experience rewarding both academically and professionally.

How to Apply for an Australian Student Visa from Nepal

To apply for an Australian student visa, first choose a course and university, then prepare documents and submit your application online. After enrolling in an Australian university and meeting the GTE requirements, you can proceed to submit the Subclass 500 visa application form. Here is the step-by-step guide for the entire application process:

1. Choose Your Course and University

The first step is to select the course and university that fits your career goals. Research tuition fees, scholarships, location, post-study work opportunities, and PR prospects. Once you’ve decided, check the university’s admission requirements and deadlines to ensure you meet all criteria.

2. Check Eligibility & Prepare Documents

Before applying, make sure you meet both academic and English language requirements. Prepare all necessary documents, including transcripts, proof of funds, SOP, and recommendation letters. Proper preparation improves your chances of a smooth application process and reduces delays.

3. Apply to Your Chosen Program

Submit your application directly through the university’s online portal or via authorized agents. Ensure that your documents are accurate, complete, and verified. Some universities may require interviews or additional assessments depending on the course.

4. Complete COE & GTE Requirements

Once accepted, you will receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (COE). This document is required for your student visa application. Additionally, you must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) requirement, demonstrating that you genuinely intend to study in Australia temporarily and comply with visa conditions.

5. Apply for a Student Visa (Subclass 500)

With your COE and GTE documents ready, apply for the Subclass 500 Student Visa online. Follow these steps to apply for your student visa from Nepal:

• Create or log in to your ImmiAccount on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
• Proceed to fill out the online Student Visa (Subclass 500) application form.
• Answer all the questions, including those for the Genuine Student (GS) requirement.
• Upload all mandatory supporting documents, such as your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and proof of Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), to your ImmiAccount.
• Pay the non-refundable visa application charge using a credit or debit card.
• Submit your application after confirming that all the information is filled out and the documents are attached correctly.

6. Complete Biometrics Collection

After submitting your visa application, you may be required to provide biometrics at the Australian Visa Application Center in Kathmandu. This includes fingerprints and photographs, which are mandatory for visa processing.

7. Pre-Departure & Accommodation Plan

Once your visa is approved, start preparing for travel and accommodation. Book your flights, arrange temporary or permanent housing, and plan for essentials like bank accounts, OSHC (health insurance), and local transport. Being prepared before departure ensures a smooth transition to life in Australia.

Best Cities in Australia for Nepalese Students

Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide are the most popular cities for Nepali students. Each city offers quality education, part-time work opportunities, and safe student-friendly environments. Choosing the right city depends on your budget, lifestyle preferences, and proximity to universities or career hubs. Here are the top Australian cities for Nepali students:

1. Melbourne

Melbourne is known as the education hub of Australia, hosting world-class universities like the University of Melbourne, Monash University, and RMIT. The city is also the most livable study destination with its vibrant cultural scene, excellent public transport, and numerous student-friendly neighborhoods. While living costs are slightly higher, scholarship opportunities and part-time work options make it manageable.

2. Sydney

Sydney is known as the best student city for international students. It is also famous for its beautiful beaches, iconic landmarks, and high-quality universities such as UNSW and the University of Sydney. The city offers excellent internship and job opportunities, particularly in finance, business, and IT. However, Sydney’s living expenses are among the highest in Australia, so proper financial planning is crucial.

3. Brisbane

Brisbane offers a more affordable lifestyle compared to Sydney and Melbourne while still providing quality education at universities like the University of Queensland and QUT. The city has a friendly climate, a growing job market, and lower accommodation costs, making it ideal for budget-conscious students.

4. Perth

Perth is perfect for students looking for a relaxed lifestyle with good career prospects. Universities such as the University of Western Australia offer high-quality programs in engineering, science, and business. Perth also has a strong local job market and is known for being safe and welcoming.

6. Adelaide

Adelaide is recognized for its affordable living costs and high-quality education. The city hosts universities like the University of Adelaide and Flinders University. Adelaide is especially suitable for students looking for a quiet, student-friendly environment while pursuing their studies. The city provides the best balance of city-like opportunities and higher PR chances since it is a regional area.
 

When choosing a city, consider tuition fees, living expenses, job opportunities, lifestyle, and PR pathways. Balancing affordability and opportunities can help you make the most of your study abroad experience.

Post-Study Work Visa in Australia

The Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485), commonly called the Post-Study Work Visa (PSW), allows international students to gain work experience and potentially transition to permanent residency. If you are planning to work in Australia after your education, or are targeting PR for the long term, you should be clear about the post-study work visa and its policies.

1. What is the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485)?

The Subclass 485 visa allows graduates from Australian institutions to work temporarily in Australia after completing their studies. It is designed to give international students practical experience, improve career prospects, and support their long-term migration plans.

There are two streams under this visa:

1. Graduate Work Stream: For students who graduated in a skill-shortage occupation. Usually valid for 18 months to 2 years.
2. Post-Study Work Stream: For graduates of Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD programs, valid for 2–6 years depending on qualification.

2. Key Requirements for the Subclass 485 Visa

To apply for the PSW visa, you must:

• Have recently completed a degree from an Australian institution.
• Be under 50 years of age at the time of application.
• Hold a valid student visa at the time of application.
• Provide proof of English proficiency, if required.
• Apply within 6 months of completing your course.

3. How Long Can You Stay with PGWP in Australia?

The duration of your post-study work visa depends on your highest qualification:

• Bachelor’s degree: Up to 3 years
• Master’s by coursework: Up to 2 years
• Master’s by research: Up to 3 years
• PhD: Up to 4 years
• Some extended post-study work visas: Up to 6 years (for certain STEM and high-demand fields)
  During this period, you can work full-time, gain Australian work experience, and improve your chances for skilled migration or PR pathways.

How to Get PR in Australia After Graduation?

Nepali students can get PR in Australia through skilled migration and regional pathways. Graduates in high-demand occupations can apply for Subclass 189, 190, or 491 visas, earning points for age, qualifications, English skills, and work experience. PR allows you to live and work indefinitely, opening doors to professional growth and long-term stability. These are your options for getting a PR in Australia:

1. Skilled Migration Pathways

Skilled migration is a points-based system that evaluates your age, qualifications, work experience, English proficiency, and occupation relevance. Graduates in high-demand fields like IT, healthcare, engineering, and accounting can apply for visas such as Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) or Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated), which allow permanent residency based on merit and eligibility.

2. Regional Pathways (491/190 Options)

Australia encourages skilled graduates to work in regional areas. Regional pathways, like the Subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional Visa, require living and working in designated areas for a few years but provide extra points toward PR. Some states also prioritize regional candidates under the Subclass 190 state-nominated visa, making it a strategic option for international graduates.

3. Occupation List Relevance

Choosing a course aligned with Australia’s Skilled Occupation List increases your PR chances. Fields like IT, Nursing, Chartered Accountancy, Engineering, and Health Sciences are in high demand, giving graduates stronger eligibility for skilled migration and smoother transitions from student visas to permanent residency.

Conclusion

When planning to study in Australia from Nepal, the applications, visas, costs, and choices all may seem like a maze. But with this guide, you now have a clear roadmap, the key requirements, and the insights you need to make confident decisions. You’ve taken the first step by equipping yourself with knowledge, and that’s already half the battle won.

Remember, every successful student abroad once stood where you are today, uncertain but determined. If you want even more comprehensive, personalised guidance, consider visiting a reputed education consultancy in Nepal. With careful planning, the right course, and the right guidance, your dream of studying in Australia is completely achievable.