Aus Visa Library

Higher Education Sector Visa (Subclass 573)

The Higher Education Sector visa (subclass 573) was a prominent option for international students in Australia, now replaced by the Student visa (subclass 500), reflecting changes in Australia's educational and migration policies.

The Higher Education Sector visa (subclass 573) was a popular pathway for international students wishing to pursue higher education in Australia. However, it is important to note that this visa has been repealed and is no longer available for new applications. Despite its discontinuation, understanding the details of this visa can offer valuable insights for those interested in Australia’s educational and migration landscape.

Key Benefits and Features

The Higher Education Sector visa (subclass 573) allowed students to enroll in:

  • Bachelor’s degree programs
  • Associate degree programs
  • Graduate certificate or diploma courses
  • Masters by coursework

Benefits:

  • Study in Australia: Allowed holders to pursue a recognized higher education degree.
  • Work Rights: Provided permission to work up to 40 hours per fortnight during the academic session and unrestricted hours during scheduled course breaks.
  • Family Accompaniment: Permitted family members to accompany the student. Spouses could work under similar conditions, and dependents could study up to a specified level.
  • Access to Healthcare: Visa holders were required to obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), granting access to Australia’s healthcare system.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Challenges:

  • Financial Requirements: Proving sufficient financial capacity to cover tuition, living expenses, and travel.
  • English Language Proficiency: Demonstrating proficiency through standardized tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
  • Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Requirement: Convincing the Department of Home Affairs of the applicant’s intent to temporarily stay in Australia for education.

Solutions:

  • Detailed Financial Plan: Presenting a comprehensive plan highlighting financial stability, including sponsorships if applicable.
  • Continuous Language Preparation: Undertaking language courses to meet proficiency requirements.
  • Strong GTE Statement: Crafting a genuine and compelling personal statement with clear future plans post-study.

Common Professions and Professionals

Professionals from diverse backgrounds applied for this visa, typically those aiming to enhance their qualifications or pivot to new career paths. Common fields included:

  • Engineering
  • Information Technology
  • Business and Management
  • Health Sciences
  • Arts and Humanities

FAQs

  • What happened to those who held a subclass 573 visa after its repeal? Existing visa holders could continue their studies under the conditions of their visa until its expiry.

  • Can I apply for a similar visa now? Interested students should explore the Student visa (subclass 500), which replaced the subclass 573 visa as part of the Simplified Student Visa Framework (SSVF) introduced in 2016.

  • What were the costs associated with the visa? The application fee for the visa was subject to change and varied depending on individual circumstances and the number of accompanying family members. Additional costs included health cover and English test fees.

  • How long was the visa valid? The duration aligned with the length of the enrolled course, with additional time before and after the course for travel and graduation activities.

Relevant Statistics

  • Australia consistently ranks as a top destination for international students, contributing significantly to the economy.
  • Over 350,000 student visas were granted in the higher education sector from 2010 to 2015.

Understanding past visa options like the subclass 573 provides context for Australia's evolving migration and educational policies. For those looking to study in Australia now, exploring visas such as the subclass 500 is recommended.

For the latest information and detailed guidance on Australian migration and education pathways, visit ausvisalibrary.com to connect with experts and access a wealth of resources.

Keywords: Visas, Australian PR, Migration, Higher Education Sector visa, Subclass 573, Student visa, International Students, Australia, Education, GTE, Financial Requirements, English Language Proficiency.