If you’ve just finished high school, or if your child has completed their +1 or +2 and dreams of studying in Australia from Dubai but doesn’t have a clear plan yet, let me welcome you to our “Visa Business School.” Just kidding—it’s not a boring school-type article! But yes, in this blog, you’ll find everything you need to know about the total cost of studying in Australia.

Before diving into the details, here’s a quick overview to clarify the old process of applying for and obtaining a study visa for Australia under previous rules.

The old method required a paper-based application, which involved completing physical forms and submitting them along with supporting documents. Applicants had to visit an Australian embassy or consulate to lodge their applications. This process included obtaining a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from an Australian institution, proving English proficiency, and demonstrating financial stability for tuition and living costs. Processing times were longer, and applicants often relied on postal or in-person communication for updates.

Applying for a student visa for Australia requires you to show financial capacity, proving you can cover essential expenses throughout your stay. This includes costs for yourself and any family members who may accompany you. For students from Dubai, meeting these financial requirements is essential to demonstrate that you can support your studies without relying on Australian resources.

To succeed in your application, you need to confirm that you have sufficient funds available for the entire duration of your stay. Providing inadequate financial evidence can lead to visa refusal without further requests for information, so it’s crucial to understand the financial guidelines specifically for Dubai applicants.

Bank Balance and Financial Proof Needed for Dubai Applicants

1. Income Proof from a Sponsor
   One way to meet the financial requirement is by showing a specific annual income from a close family member, such as a parent or spouse. The income threshold for Dubai applicants is A$87,856 for single applicants and A$102,500 for couples. This income must come directly from your spouse or parents and be shown in official documentation, like a tax assessment, issued within 12 months before applying.
2. Funds to Cover Expenses
   Alternatively, you can show proof of funds to cover the necessary expenses for your first 12 months in Australia. These include:
   • Travel expenses to Australia
   • First-year tuition fees
   • Living expenses for the first 12 months
   • School fees for any school-age children accompanying you

If your course is less than 12 months long, you must demonstrate funds proportionate to the length of your stay.

3. Special Financial Support Options
   Some students may qualify for specific support arrangements, such as an AASES form for secondary exchange students or financial support letters from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) or Defence.

Quick Checklist for Financial Evidence

• Income documents (if using annual income, such as a tax assessment)
• Proof of funds for travel, living expenses, tuition fees, and schooling (if applicable)

Additional Considerations for Dubai Applicants

If family members plan to join you in Australia, each will need to meet the same financial requirements under your student visa. Preparing these financial documents according to Dubai-specific guidelines will help ensure a smooth application process.

By understanding and preparing these financial requirements, Dubai students can confidently approach the visa application process, showing they’re well-prepared to study and live in Australia.

How Much Does an Australian Student Visa Cost?

Applying for an Australian student visa from Dubai costs around AUD 630. This fee applies to the main applicant and covers processing the visa. Keep in mind that this cost is separate from other expenses like health checks, biometrics, or translations if needed. Also, fees can vary slightly, so it’s best to check with official Australian immigration sources for the latest amounts.

Visa Type	Cost (AUD)	Cost (AED Approx.)
Student Visa (main applicant)	AUD 630	~ AED 1,690
Additional Applicant (over 18)	AUD 470	~ AED 1,260
Additional Applicant (under 18)	AUD 155	~ AED 415

Cost of a Dependent Visa for Australia from Dubai

If family members (like a spouse or children) want to join you, they’ll need their own dependent visas. The costs vary depending on their age:

• Over 18: Approximately AUD 470.
• Under 18: Approximately AUD 155.

Dependent visas are applied for alongside your student visa or later as a “subsequent entrant,” but either way, financial proof is essential to cover living costs for everyone.

Bank Balance Requirement for an Australian Student Visa

To get a student visa, you need to show enough bank balance to cover:

• Your travel costs to Australia
• First-year tuition fees
• Living expenses for the first 12 months (around AUD 21,041 for single students)
• School fees for any children

For example:

Expense Type	Required Amount (AUD)
Travel to Australia	Varies based on location
First-year Tuition Fees	Depends on your course
Living Expenses	AUD 21,041
Child’s School Fees	AUD 8,000 per child

Tip: Make sure the funds are easily accessible and in an account that meets Australia’s requirements. Funds must be in your name or a close family member’s (like a parent or spouse).

How to Apply for an Australian Student Visa

Applying for an Australian student visa involves these steps:

1. Confirm Your Enrollment: Get accepted into an Australian institution and receive a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE).
2. Set Up Your ImmiAccount: Register on the Australian immigration portal to start your online application.
3. Gather Your Documents: Have your passport, CoE, financial documents, and health insurance ready.
4. Complete the Visa Application: Fill out the online form carefully, upload your documents, and pay the visa fee.
5. Submit Biometrics: You may be asked to provide biometrics at a nearby application center.
6. Health Check: Complete any required medical exams as directed.
7. Wait for Approval: Processing times vary, so apply as early as possible.

Tip: Be honest and double-check all details to avoid delays.

Important New Rules for Australian Student Visas

Recently, some rules have changed:

• Higher Financial Proof: You may need to show more funds to ensure you can support yourself.
• English Language Requirements: Check if your course requires proof of English proficiency, like an IELTS score.
• Working Hours Limit: Students can usually work up to 48 hours every two weeks during the semester and unlimited hours during breaks.

Make sure to stay updated with any new rule changes from the Australian immigration website.

Is It Difficult to Get an Australian Student Visa?

It’s generally straightforward if you meet all requirements. Showing genuine intent to study, financial stability, and academic readiness are key. However, issues can arise if documents are incomplete, financial proof is insufficient, or if there are discrepancies in your information.

Tip: Be well-prepared and follow the instructions carefully to increase your chances of a smooth approval process.

Reasons for Visa Refusal and How to Avoid It

Here are common reasons for refusal and tips to prevent them:

Reason for Refusal	How to Avoid It
Insufficient Financial Proof	Show complete, recent bank statements with required funds
Inconsistent Information	Ensure all forms and documents have matching details
Lack of Genuine Intent	Write a clear Statement of Purpose explaining your study plans
Incomplete Documentation	Double-check all required documents before submission

Tip: Be transparent in your application, and don’t skip any requirements. A well-prepared application is the best way to avoid refusals.

If, after reading this, you feel unsure about handling these requirements on your own—which is completely normal—you might consider contacting a trusted education consultant in Dubai. We are here to help!

Frequently Asked Questions.