If you're thinking of exchange in 2025to know exactly what the rules for studying in Australia is essential. After all, with the recent changes in migration and education legislation, being up-to-date can make all the difference to the success of your visa application.
In recent years, Australia has remained one of the most popular destinations for international students. This is due to the high quality of education, safety, the possibility of working legally during studies and the enriching multicultural experience the country offers.
However, in order to make this dream come true, you need to understand in detail the rules for studying in Australia, especially with regard to student visa in Australia, financial proof, health insurance and the new prioritization processes defined by the Ministerial directive MD111. In this guide, we will detail all these issues so that you can safely plan your trip. exchange in Australia.
What you need to study in Australia: student visa (Subclass 500)
To study at an Australian institution, you must obtain an Australian student visa, known as a Visa Subclass 500. It allows you to study English, undergraduate, postgraduate and vocational training (VET) courses.
To obtain a visa, you will need to present
- Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE): Proof that you are enrolled in a course recognized by CRICOS (Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students), which is Australia's education department
- Financial proof: you must show that you have conditions to stay in the country during their studies.
- OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover) health insurance: Compulsory for the entire period of stay in Australia.
- Proof of English proficiency: In general, students are required to prove adequate knowledge of the language when enrolling in professional or higher education courses. However, if you are going on an exchange to study English, this is not compulsory.
It's worth remembering that traveling to Australia requires a visa, and the student visa is one of the most complete and accessible for Brazilians wishing to study and work in the country.
English proficiency requirements: which tests are accepted?
If you want to study in Australia, you need to prove that you have a minimum level of English. Some schools offer online "survival English" courses for students who enroll with them and are still in Brazil.
In addition, the Department of Home Affairs accepts various proficiency tests:
- IELTS (Academic)minimum score of 5.5, which may vary depending on the institution.
- TOEFL iBTminimum of 46 points.
- PTE Academicminimum of 42 points.
- Cambridge English (Advanced - CAE): minimum score of 162.
Each institution may require different grades, so always check the official website of the school or university.
Financial proof: how much does it cost to study in Australia?
One of the rules for studying in Australia is to prove that you have sufficient resources to stay in the country for the duration of your course. The values may varyHowever, immigration currently considers the following minimum annual costs:
- Student living costs: AUD 24,505 per year
- English course or degree: between AUD 300 and AUD 550 per week
- Health insurance (OSHC): varies between AUD 500 and AUD 800 per year
Therefore, for a 6-month course, it is common to present proof of around AUD 15,000 to AUD 20,000.
Requirements of educational institutions: what do they demand?
To be accepted by an Australian institution, you need:
- Have completed high school or an undergraduate degree, depending on the desired course
- Submit transcripts and translated diplomas
- Proof of English language proficiency
Each school has its own requirements. It is therefore advisable to go to the website of the desired institution to check the specific requirements before starting the application process. Another alternative, for those who want to ensure correct information, is to talk to an educational agent at Good Day Education and Migrationwhich is updated and has direct contact with Australian institutions.
Recent changes: understand the new MD111 guideline
The new Ministerial Direction 111 (MD111), in force since December 19, 2024, introduced a new prioritization model for processing visas for offshore applicants (outside Australia).
Students applying to institutions that have not yet reached 80% of the 2025 international enrollment quota will have high priority (Priority 1). Those applying to schools that have already reached this quota will be classified as Priority 2 - Standard.
The aim is to distribute the workload more fairly between institutions and avoid the concentration of students in a few schools.
This change directly impacts those planning an exchange to Australia, as the choice of school now also influences the waiting time for visa approval.
Essential tips for planning your exchange in Australia
Planning an exchange in Australia requires organization. So here are some tips:
- Choose the institution carefully: prefer schools with a good reputation with the educational agent and immigration agent. Good Day Education & Migration's team of experts will help you with this part of the process to ensure a more assertive application;
- Start the process early: ideally 6 to 8 months before departure;
- Pay attention to the CoE: it is compulsory to apply for a visa;
- Check the rules for entering Australiaupdates on vaccines, quarantines and requirements may change;
- Organize the documentation: sworn translations, declaration of intent, proof of income, etc. If you don't want to do this, the team at Good Day is ready to take care of the bureaucracy for you.
How long is the student visa valid for?
The student visa for Australia is usually valid for the duration of the course + vacations, which can vary by an additional 1 or 2 months. For example:
- 6-month course: visa valid for about 7 months
- 1-year course: visa valid for 13 to 14 months
Once completed, you can apply for the graduate visaif you have completed a higher education course.
Why rely on a specialized agency?
With so many rules for studying in Australia, having expert advice can prevent mistakes and speed up your process.
A Good Day Education & Migration operates directly from Australia, knows the challenges faced by students and has a complete service, with trained professionals from education agents to immigration agents. The team helps with
- Support from Brazil, answering questions and planning education abroad;
- Visa application;
- Document organization;
- Support on arrival in the country;
- And support and planning with the immigration service for those who wish to remain in Australia.
Conclusion: rules for studying in Australia
Knowing all the rules for studying in Australia is the first step to ensuring a successful exchange. In 2025, with new government guidelines such as MD111, being prepared and well-informed is more important than ever.
If you dream of living this experience, start planning now. And remember: traveling to Australia requires a visa and planning is essential to avoid headaches.
Do you need help? Get in touch with the Good Day team and start your journey to study in Australia safely!
See also:
- How to work in Australia: salary, tips and visa options
- Exchange in Australia: tips and updated guide for 2024
- How to immigrate to Australia: everything you need to know
- University in Australia: find out how to study in the country
- Australia's best cities: find the ideal destination for your exchange program
- Cost of an exchange in Australia in 2025: see the main planning mistakes

