Australia is one of the most popular destinations for international students, thanks to its globally ranked universities, post-study work opportunities, and multicultural environment. Once you receive your Offer Letter, the next big question is:
How long does the Australia study visa process take after the offer letter?
This detailed blog explains the complete Australia study visa timeline after an offer letter, step by step, including realistic timeframes, required documents, and tips to avoid delays.
The Student Visa (Subclass 500) allows international students to:
Study full-time at an Australian institution
Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods
Stay in Australia for the duration of the course
The visa process officially begins after you receive your Offer Letter from an Australian university or college.
Timeline: Immediate – 2 weeks
After applying to Australian institutions:
You may receive a Conditional Offer Letter or Unconditional Offer Letter
Conditional offers usually require:
Academic documents
English proficiency scores
Financial proof
📌 Tip: Respond to the offer quickly to avoid intake deadlines.
Timeline: 1–7 days
To move forward:
Sign the Acceptance of Offer
Pay the required tuition fee deposit (varies by institution)
Some universities also require OSHC payment at this stage
Once completed, the institution issues a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).
Timeline: 2–10 working days
The CoE is a mandatory document for visa application.
You cannot apply for an Australian student visa without it.
You will receive:
CoE number (used in visa application)
Course start and end dates
Institution details
Timeline: 5–10 days
Required documents include:
Passport
Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)
Genuine Student (GS) statement
Financial evidence
English test results (IELTS/PTE)
Academic transcripts
Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)
📌 Tip: Ensure financial documents meet the latest requirements set by Department of Home Affairs.
Timeline: 1–2 days
Submit application online via ImmiAccount
Pay visa application fee
Upload all supporting documents
Receive Acknowledgement of Application
Timeline: 1–3 weeks (varies by country)
After submission:
You may be asked to give biometrics
Complete medical exams with approved panel physicians
📌 Delays often happen here if appointments are not booked early.
Timeline: 4–12 weeks (average)
Visa processing time depends on:
Student’s country of origin
Education provider risk level
Completeness of documents
Intake season (peak periods are slower)
You will receive:
Visa Grant Notification (email)
Visa conditions and validity dates
| Stage | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Offer acceptance & payment | 1 week |
| CoE issuance | 1 week |
| Document preparation | 1–2 weeks |
| Visa application & biometrics | 1–3 weeks |
| Visa processing | 4–12 weeks |
| Total Time | 6–16 weeks |
Incomplete or incorrect documents
Insufficient financial evidence
High visa volume during peak intakes (Feb & July)
Delays in medical or biometrics
Institution risk rating
Apply at least 3–4 months before course start
Ensure funds meet GS and financial criteria
Submit a strong Genuine Student (GS) statement
Double-check documents before submission
Book medicals immediately after request
The Australia study visa timeline after an offer letter usually ranges between 6 to 16 weeks, depending on how quickly you act and how complete your application is. Planning early, responding promptly, and submitting accurate documents are the keys to a smooth visa journey.
