Comprehensive Guide & Required Documents for International School Students (Year 1 to 12) in Australia

1. Introduction

Australia offers high-quality education for international students in primary (Year 1-6) and secondary school (Year 7-12). Whether you are enrolling in a government school, private school, or an international school, the application process involves meeting eligibility requirements and submitting key documents.

This guide outlines:
✔ School options (public, private, and international)
✔ Visa requirements for student dependents
✔ Tuition fees & living costs
✔ Required documents for application & visa processing

2. Types of Schools in Australia

A. Government/Public Schools

✔ Run by state governments
✔ More affordable than private schools
✔ Requires proof of residency or a student visa
✔ Follows the Australian Curriculum

B. Private/Independent Schools

✔ Includes Catholic & non-denominational schools
✔ Higher tuition fees but more resources & extracurriculars
✔ Often requires entrance exams or interviews

C. International Schools

✔ Offers International Baccalaureate (IB) or other global curricula
✔ Higher tuition fees but provides globally recognized qualifications
✔ Ideal for families planning to relocate to multiple countries

3. Visa Requirements for School Students

Most international students in Years 1 to 12 apply under Student Visa (Subclass 500 – Schools Sector).

🔹 Eligibility:

• Students must have a confirmed enrolment in an Australian school
• Parent or guardian must nominate a caregiver if the student is under 18 years
• Proof of financial capacity to cover school fees, living expenses, and OSHC (health insurance)

🔹 School-Age Students Applying as Dependents:

• If a parent is studying in Australia, school-aged children must be enrolled in a school before arriving
• Parents must provide proof of financial support

4. Estimated Tuition Fees for International School Students

Tuition fees vary depending on the state, school type, and year level.

📌 Note: Fees do not include additional costs like uniforms, textbooks, excursions, and extracurricular activities.

5. Estimated Living Costs for School Students

A school student in Australia will need adequate financial support for daily living expenses.

📌 Note: Living costs vary based on location (Sydney & Melbourne are more expensive than smaller cities).

6. Required Documents for School Admission & Visa Application

A. Documents for School Admission

✅ Application Form (provided by the school)
✅ Passport Copy (for student and parents)
✅ Student Visa (if already issued)
✅ Birth Certificate (certified English translation required)
✅ Previous School Reports (last 2 years, translated if necessary)
✅ English Proficiency Test Results (e.g., AEAS, IELTS, TOEFL - if required)
✅ Health & Immunization Records
✅ Letter of Guardianship (if student is under 18 and not living with parents in Australia)

📌 Some schools may require additional entrance tests or interviews.

B. Documents for Student Visa (Subclass 500 – Schools Sector)

✅ Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian school
✅ Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Statement (explaining study purpose)
✅ Parent/Guardian’s Financial Evidence (proof of funds for tuition & living expenses)
✅ Health Insurance (OSHC) for the student
✅ Welfare Arrangements (if under 18) (approval for a parent/guardian or homestay)
✅ Proof of Relationship with Parent/Guardian (if applying as a dependent child)

7. Guardianship & Accommodation for Students Under 18

If a student is under 18 years old, they must have approved guardianship in Australia. Options include:

• Living with a parent or relative (visa required)
• Homestay arrangements (school-approved host families)
• Boarding school accommodation

🔹 Important: Schools and the Department of Home Affairs must approve the guardian arrangement before visa grant.

8. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for School Students

OSHC is mandatory for all international students in Australia, including those in primary and secondary school. Most school scholarships do NOT cover OSHC costs, so families must budget for this separately.

Estimated OSHC Costs for School Students (2025 Rates):

💡 Exclusive Offer with MyCourseFinder
MyCourseFinder.com provides exclusive OSHC discounts for families who apply through us! Save on premium costs and ensure your child is fully covered.

👉 Contact MyCourseFinder for the best OSHC deals! Visit MyCourseFinder OSHC

9. Final Thoughts

📌 Key Takeaways:
✔ International students must enroll in a registered Australian school before applying for a visa.
✔ Tuition fees & living costs vary, so ensure you have sufficient funds.
✔ OSHC & guardianship are mandatory for students under 18.
✔ Parents studying in Australia must arrange schooling for dependent children before arrival.

💡 Need help with school applications or student visas?
MyCourseFinder.com can assist with:
✅ School selection & applications
✅ Visa documentation & financial planning
✅ Guardian & accommodation arrangements
✅ OSHC discounts for families

👉 Contact us today for expert assistance! 🚀