How long is the Australia Temporary Graduate Visa for international students?

The Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) lets international students live and work in Australia after graduation. Under the Graduate Work stream, eligible graduates can stay for 2–5 years depending on where they studied — students who studied in regional areas may receive additional time. Under the Post-Study Work stream, Bachelor's graduates receive 2 years, Honours and Master's by coursework graduates receive 3 years, Master's by research graduates receive 4 years, and PhD graduates receive 4 years. No job offer is required to apply.

What is a CoE and why do Nepali students need it for an Australia visa?

A CoE, or Confirmation of Enrolment, is an official document issued by your Australian institution through the PRISMS system once you have accepted your offer and paid the required deposit. It contains your student ID, course details, duration, and tuition fee information. The CoE is a mandatory document for lodging your Australian Student Visa (subclass 500) application — without it, your visa application cannot be processed. If you are enrolling in multiple courses, you may receive a separate CoE for each. ICCC assists Nepali students in following up with their institution to obtain their CoE promptly and accurately.

How long does Australia student visa processing take for Nepali students?

Processing times for the Australia Student Visa (subclass 500) vary depending on application volume and individual circumstances. On average, 75% of applications are processed within 29 days and 90% within 40 days, based on the Australian Department of Home Affairs data. However, processing can take longer if additional documents are requested or health checks are required. ICCC recommends that Nepali students submit their visa application at least 3 months before their course start date to allow sufficient time for processing, OSHC arrangement, and travel preparation.

Study in Australia from Nepal

Q: What are the requirements to study in Australia from Nepal?

Nepali students applying to Australian universities need to meet academic, language, and visa requirements. Academically, you need a completed Higher Secondary (10+2) for undergraduate or a Bachelor's degree for postgraduate admission, with a minimum GPA of 2.8–3.2 depending on the university. For English proficiency, most universities require IELTS 6.0–6.5 (or PTE 50–65). For the Student Visa (subclass 500), you need a valid passport, Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE), proof of sufficient funds (AUD 29,710 per year), Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), a Genuine Student (GS) statement, and a health examination if required.

Q: Can Nepali students work while studying in Australia?

Yes. As of July 2023, the Australian government removed the 40-hour per fortnight work limit for international students on a Student Visa (subclass 500). Nepali students can now work unlimited hours while enrolled in their course. During official university holidays and semester breaks, students have always been permitted to work full-time. This makes Australia one of the most work-friendly study destinations for Nepali students looking to support themselves financially during their studies.

Q: What scholarships are available for Nepali students to study in Australia?

Several scholarships are available to Nepali students wishing to study in Australia. The Australia Awards Scholarship, funded by the Australian Government, covers full tuition, living allowance, return airfare, and health cover for postgraduate study. The Destination Australia Scholarship supports students who study in regional Australia. Many universities also offer merit-based scholarships — for example, the University of Melbourne Graduate Research Scholarships, Monash International Leadership Scholarships, and University of Queensland International Scholarships. ICCC provides expert guidance to help Nepali students identify, prepare, and apply for the scholarships best suited to their profile.

Q: How much does it cost to study in Australia from Nepal?

The cost of studying in Australia varies by institution and program. Undergraduate tuition fees typically range from AUD 20,000 to AUD 45,000 per year, while postgraduate programs range from AUD 22,000 to AUD 50,000 per year. The Australian government requires student visa applicants to demonstrate living costs of at least AUD 29,710 per year. In practice, monthly living expenses vary by city — Sydney and Melbourne tend to be the most expensive, while cities like Adelaide, Hobart, and regional areas are significantly more affordable. ICCC helps Nepali students plan their finances and choose institutions that match their budget.

ICCC is your trusted education consultancy for students planning to Study in Australia from Nepal. With over a decade of proven experience, we guide students to top universities and institutes across Australia, along with other leading destinations like Canada, the UK, the USA, and New Zealand.

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Why Choose Australia for Your Studies?

Discover why thousands of Nepali students choose to study in Australia every year for world-class degrees, vibrant campus life, and global career opportunities

Globally Ranked Universities

Australia is home to the University of Melbourne, ANU, University of Sydney, and UNSW — consistently ranked among the top universities in the world. An Australian degree is recognized and respected by employers globally.

Flexible Course Options

Australian undergraduate degrees typically take 3–4 years and master's programs 1.5–2 years, offering Nepali students a wide range of study options across diverse disciplines.

Work While You Study

International students in Australia can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time and unlimited hours during holidays, helping cover living expenses while gaining Australian work experience.

Post-Study Work Visa

After completing your degree, the Australian Temporary Graduate Visa (subclass 485) allows you to stay and work in Australia for 2–4 years depending on your qualification and study location, opening pathways to permanent residency.

Multicultural & Safe Environment

Australia has a large and welcoming Nepali community, particularly in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, making it easier to adapt, connect, and feel at home.

Globally Recognized Qualification

An Australian degree holds exceptional value worldwide. Graduates from Australian institutions are highly sought after by top employers across Asia, Europe, North America, and beyond.

Top Universities to Study in Australia

Explore world-renowned Australian institutions that Nepali students can apply to through ICCC

University of Melbourne

Australia's leading university, renowned for research excellence, law, medicine, and humanities across all disciplines.

QS Rank: 14

University of Sydney

One of the most prestigious universities in Australia, consistently ranked in the global top 20 across science, engineering, and arts.

QS Rank: 18

Australian National University

A global leader in science, engineering, medicine, and business, with strong industry links and outstanding graduate employability.

QS Rank: 30

UNSW Sydney

One of Australia's top research universities, excelling in engineering, business, law, and social sciences.

QS Rank: 19

Monash University

A leading Australian university offering exceptional programs in business, engineering, pharmacy, and life sciences.

QS Rank: 37

University of Queensland

A highly popular choice for Nepali students, offering a wide range of programs with a vibrant international student community.

QS Rank: 40

How to Apply to Australian Universities from Nepal

Follow these clear steps to begin your Australian study journey with ICCC's expert guidance

Free Consultation

Meet with our Australia specialist counselors to assess your profile, discuss your goals, and shortlist the right universities and programs.

Document Preparation

We help you prepare your academic transcripts, personal statement, reference letters, and English proficiency test scores for direct university applications.

University Application

Submit strong applications to your chosen Australian universities through the university's direct portal or agent portal with our end-to-end support.

Offer Letter & CoE

Receive your conditional or unconditional offer letter, fulfill any conditions, and obtain your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from your institution.

Australia Student Visa

We guide you through the Australia Student Visa (subclass 500) application, including financial documentation, OSHC health cover, and online submission.

Pre-Departure

Attend our Australia pre-departure orientation covering accommodation, Medicare, banking, travel tips, and what to expect on arrival.

Australia Student Visa & Admission Requirements for Nepali Students

Everything Nepali students need to know to successfully apply for Australian universities and an Australia Student Visa

Academic Requirements

Completed Higher Secondary (10+2) for undergraduate
Bachelor's degree for postgraduate programs
Minimum GPA 2.8 – 3.2 (varies by university)
Official academic transcripts
Personal Statement (SOP)
Two academic reference letters

English Language

IELTS Academic: 6.0 – 7.0 overall
No individual band below 5.5 – 6.5
TOEFL iBT: 80 – 100
PTE Academic: 50 – 65
Duolingo English Test accepted by some universities
Exemptions for English-medium graduates

Financial Proof

Tuition fee for first year in savings
AUD 29,710/year for living costs
Additional funds for school-age dependants
Bank statements showing sufficient funds
Education loan documents accepted
Scholarship award letters

Visa Documents

Valid passport (covers entire course)
CoE (Confirmation of Enrolment)
Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) proof
Police clearance certificate
Health examination results
Parental consent (if under 18)

Programs & Costs

The average tuition for international undergraduates is AUD 20,000 – AUD 45,000 annually and AUD 22,000 – AUD 50,000 for graduate studies. Living costs must be shown at the time of visa filing — approximately AUD 2,476/month in Sydney or AUD 1,800/month outside major cities.

Australia Student Visa

Master's in Australia

Cost of Living in Australia

Intakes to Study in Australia

Why Choose to Study in Australia?

Discover the advantages of pursuing your higher education in one of the world's most beautiful and welcoming countries

World-Class Education

Australian universities rank among the top 3% globally, offering internationally recognized qualifications and cutting-edge research opportunities.

Affordable Tuition

Compared to other English-speaking countries, Australia offers competitive tuition fees and living costs, making quality education accessible.