Australia is one of the most popular destinations for international students due to its world-class universities, excellent lifestyle, and strong career opportunities. However, before applying for an Australia Student Visa (Subclass 500), students must show proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.

Understanding the financial requirement is one of the most important parts of the student visa application. This guide explains the exact amount of funds required, acceptable financial proof, and how to prepare financially for studying in Australia in 2026.

Why Financial Proof is Required for Australia Student Visa

The Australian government requires international students to show sufficient funds to ensure they can:

• Pay tuition fees

• Cover living expenses

• Manage travel costs

• Support dependents (if any)

• Avoid financial hardship in Australia

This ensures students can focus on their education without financial stress.

Minimum Funds Required for Australia Student Visa in 2026

The total fund requirement depends on three major components:

1. Tuition Fees

Tuition fees vary depending on course and university.

Average annual tuition fees:

• Diploma courses: AUD 8,000 – AUD 22,000

• Bachelor’s degree: AUD 20,000 – AUD 45,000

• Master’s degree: AUD 22,000 – AUD 50,000

• PhD: AUD 18,000 – AUD 42,000

Example:
If your course fee is AUD 30,000 per year, you must show funds for at least 12 months.

2. Living Expenses Requirement

As per Australian student visa guidelines, minimum living cost requirement is:

• Student: AUD 24,505 per year

• Spouse: AUD 8,574 per year

• Child: AUD 3,670 per year

Example:
Single student must show AUD 24,505 for living expenses.

3. Travel Cost Requirement

Travel expenses depend on your country.

Estimated cost:

• India to Australia: AUD 2,000 – AUD 3,000

Total Minimum Fund Requirement Example (Single Student)

Example calculation:

• Tuition fee: AUD 30,000

• Living cost: AUD 24,505

• Travel cost: AUD 2,500

Total required funds:
AUD 57,005 (Approx INR 31–32 lakhs)

Funds Required for Student with Spouse

Example calculation:

• Tuition fee: AUD 30,000

• Student living cost: AUD 24,505

• Spouse living cost: AUD 8,574

• Travel cost: AUD 4,500

Total: AUD 67,579 (Approx INR 36–38 lakhs)

Acceptable Financial Proof for Australia Student Visa

You can show funds through:

1. Bank Savings Account

• Personal savings

• Parents’ savings

• Joint accounts

2. Education Loan

• Approved education loan from bank

• Must cover required amount

3. Fixed Deposits (FD)

• Bank fixed deposits accepted

• Must be liquid funds

4. Scholarship Letter

• Government scholarship

• University scholarship

5. Sponsor Support

• Parents

• Legal guardian

• Spouse

How Long Funds Must Be Maintained

Generally, funds should be:

• Maintained for at least 3–6 months

• Proper financial history is important

• Avoid sudden large deposits

Who Can Sponsor Your Australia Student Visa

Eligible sponsors include:

• Parents

• Spouse

• Legal guardian

• Self-sponsored student

Sponsor must provide:

• Bank statements

• Income proof

• Affidavit of support

Additional Costs Students Should Consider

Apart from visa requirement, students must also consider:

• Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC): AUD 500–700/year

• Visa application fee: AUD 710

• Accommodation: AUD 800–1,500/month

• Food and transport: AUD 400–800/month

Tips to Successfully Show Financial Proof

Follow these important tips:

• Maintain genuine bank balance

• Avoid fake financial documents

• Show stable income source

• Submit clear bank statements

• Use approved education loans if needed

Proper financial preparation improves visa approval chances.

Conclusion

To apply for an Australia Student Visa in 2026, students must show sufficient funds covering tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs. On average, a single student needs around AUD 55,000 to AUD 65,000 depending on the course and situation.

Proper financial planning, genuine documents, and strong financial history significantly increase student visa approval chances.

Australia offers excellent education and career opportunities, making it a valuable investment for your future.

FAQs – Australia Student Visa Funds Requirement

1. How much bank balance is required for Australia student visa?

You need approximately AUD 55,000 to AUD 65,000 including tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.

2. What is minimum living cost requirement for Australia student visa?

Minimum living cost is AUD 24,505 per year for a single student.

3. Can parents sponsor Australia student visa?

Yes, parents can sponsor and must provide bank statements and income proof.

4. Is education loan accepted for Australia student visa?

Yes, approved education loans from banks are accepted.

5. How many months bank statement is required?

Usually 3 to 6 months bank statement is required.

6. Can fixed deposits be used as financial proof?

Yes, fixed deposits are accepted as valid financial proof.

7. Is scholarship accepted as financial proof?

Yes, government and university scholarships are accepted.

8. How much funds required for student with spouse?

Approximately AUD 65,000 to AUD 75,000 depending on tuition and expenses.

9. Do I need to show funds for full course duration?

No, generally funds for 12 months are required.

10. Can I show business income as financial proof?

Yes, business income can be shown with proper documents like ITR, bank statements, and business registration.