AUS Student Visa Fee Increased: New ELICOS Charges and Subclass 485 Fee Changes for 2026

The Australian government has officially announced changes to the AUS student visa fee, with the new charges taking effect from 1 July 2026. These updates will affect international students, English language learners, and graduates planning to stay in Australia after completing their studies.

Before submitting a visa application, applicants should always check the latest fees on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website to avoid unexpected costs.

Australia Updates Student Visa Fees from 1 July 2026

The biggest change is to the student visa (Subclass 500). The base application fee has increased from AUD $2,000 to AUD $2,500, marking a 25% rise.

A separate fee has also been introduced for students enrolling in ELICOS (English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students). Those studying English before entering higher education or vocational courses will now pay AUD $2,050.

Graduates applying for the Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) will also face a substantial increase. The application fee has jumped from AUD $4,600 to AUD $5,750, making it one of the largest increases across Australia's student visa categories.

Updated Australia Visa Fees for 2026

Why the AUS Student Visa Fee Matters

The AUS student visa fee is only one part of the total cost of studying abroad. International students also need to budget for tuition fees, accommodation, health insurance, English language tests, travel expenses, and other application costs.

For many students, these higher visa charges come after they have already paid university deposits or secured accommodation, putting additional pressure on their finances.

Graduates applying for the Subclass 485 visa are particularly affected, as many rely on this visa to gain Australian work experience, build professional networks, and improve their eligibility for skilled migration.

Is Australia Becoming More Expensive for Students?

Australia remains one of the world's leading study destinations thanks to its high-quality education and excellent career opportunities. However, rising living costs, tighter visa requirements, and increasing application fees are making students think more carefully about their options.

Many prospective students now compare Australia with destinations like Canada, the UK, the US, and Germany before making their final decision. While visa fees alone may not determine where students study, they play an important role in the overall affordability of an international education.

Tips Before Applying

Students planning to apply in 2026 should review the latest AUS student visa fee, prepare a realistic budget, understand the costs associated with their study pathway, and keep extra funds available for unexpected expenses.

Final Thoughts

Although Australia continues to offer world-class education and strong graduate opportunities, the latest visa fee increases mean students must plan their finances more carefully. Understanding the updated AUS student visa fee and budgeting early can help applicants avoid unnecessary financial stress during the visa process.