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Step-by-Step Checklist: Preparing to Apply for a Student Visa (From Africa)

So, you’ve decided to take the bold step — to study in Australia, explore new opportunities, and build a brighter future.

That’s incredible!

But before you start packing your bags or telling your family you’re moving “down under,” there’s one big milestone to cross: your student visa application.

At Afrovo, we’ve guided hundreds of African students through this process — and we’ve seen where most people get stuck. So, to help you avoid stress, delays, or costly mistakes, here’s your step-by-step student visa preparation checklist, built specifically for Africans like you.

Step 1: Choose the Right Course and Institution

Everything starts here. 

Your course and school choice can make or break your visa application — because they determine:

  • Whether you qualify for a visa

  • Your tuition fees and living cost

  • Your post-study work rights

Checklist:

  • Research accredited institutions via CRICOS

  • Choose a course aligned with your academic background and future goals

  • Confirm if your institution is on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS)

  • Check tuition costs and intake dates

Afrovo Tip: Pick a program that aligns with your past studies or career path — this strengthens your Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement.

 

Step 2: Get Your Offer Letter & Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

Once you’ve chosen a school, it’s time to apply for admission.

Checklist:

  • Prepare your academic transcripts and certificates

  • Write a strong statement of purpose (SOP)

  • Provide English test results (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE) if required

  • Pay your deposit after receiving a conditional offer

  • Collect your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) — this is crucial for your visa application

Afrovo Tip: Double-check your name, date of birth, and course details on the CoE — errors here can delay your visa approval.

 

Step 3: Prepare Proof of Financial Capacity

The Australian government wants to ensure you can afford your studies and living expenses.

Checklist:

  • Show funds for at least 12 months of tuition, travel, and living costs

  • Proof may include:

    • Bank statements (your sponsor’s or your own)

    • Employment letters or pay slips

    • Scholarship letters (if applicable)

  • Demonstrate access to funds, not just availability

Afrovo Tip: Include clear, verifiable documentation from a trusted financial institution — fake or unverifiable documents are a common reason for visa refusal.

 

Step 4: Gather Supporting Documents

Visa documentation is where most people panic. Don’t worry — we’ll break it down.

Checklist:

  • Valid international passport (at least 6 months validity)

  • Birth certificate or national ID

  • Academic transcripts and certificates

  • English language test results

  • Proof of relationship (if applying with dependents)

  • Proof of employment (if applicable)

  • Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement

  • Health insurance (OSHC – Overseas Student Health Cover)

Afrovo Tip: Scan and label your files properly before uploading — e.g., “Passport_Adewale.pdf,” “BankStatement_March2025.pdf.” Small details matter.

 

Step 5: Complete Medical Examination & Biometrics

Before approval, you’ll need to complete a medical check at an authorized panel clinic and biometric capture.

Checklist:

  • Book your medical exam via Bupa Medical Visa Services or an approved clinic in your country

  • Bring your passport and HAP ID (from your online visa application)

  • Complete biometric capture at a VFS Global center near you

Afrovo Tip: Schedule your medicals early — clinic backlogs can delay visa processing.

 

Step 6: Write a Compelling Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) Statement

Your GTE statement is your personal story — and it’s what convinces the visa officer you’re a genuine student, not just someone looking for a way in.

Checklist:

  • Explain why you chose Australia

  • Describe your course and how it aligns with your career goals

  • Show strong ties to your home country (family, job prospects, property, etc.)

  • Be clear, honest, and personal — no copy-pasting from the internet

Afrovo Tip: Think of your GTE as your “why.” The stronger and more genuine it is, the higher your visa approval chances.

 

Step 7: Apply for the Visa (Subclass 500)

Finally, the big step — submitting your application through ImmiAccount.

Checklist:

  • Create or log in to your ImmiAccount

  • Complete the Student Visa (Subclass 500) form

  • Upload all documents carefully

  • Pay the visa fee (AUD 710 as of 2025)

  • Submit and await acknowledgment

Afrovo Tip: Review your application at least twice before submission. Even a small mistake (like a wrong date) can cause long delays.

 

Step 8: Prepare for Your Visa Outcome

After applying, the waiting begins. 

Checklist:

  • Track your application status on ImmiAccount

  • Respond quickly to any additional document requests

  • Prepare your travel plans in case of approval

  • Keep your visa grant notice safe — you’ll need it for entry

Afrovo Tip: Most visa decisions take 4–8 weeks, but this varies. Stay patient and keep all communication official.

 

Step 9: Post-Approval: Get Ready for Australia!

Congratulations — you did it! 

Once your visa is approved:
Checklist:

  • Book your flight (compare prices early)

  • Arrange your accommodation

  • Pack essentials (including certified copies of key documents)

  • Attend pre-departure briefings (Afrovo offers these too!)

  • Keep digital backups of your CoE, visa, and insurance

 

Bonus: Afrovo’s Expert Support Can Save You Time, Stress & Money

You don’t have to do this alone.

At Afrovo, we’ve simplified the entire student visa process for Africans — guiding you step by step, ensuring your documents are right, your GTE is strong, and your timeline stays on track.

Our students enjoy:

  • Personalized visa coaching

  • Document verification and certification

  • GTE review and editing

  • Trusted school and scholarship connections

Whether you’re just starting or halfway through your process, we can help you make the journey smoother and more successful.

 

Applying for a student visa from Africa can seem complicated — but with the right roadmap, it becomes completely achievable.

The key is preparation, precision, and professional guidance.

So before you take your next step, ask yourself: Have I ticked every box on this checklist?

If not — don’t worry. Afrovo is here to walk you through it.

 

Achieve Your Migration Journey Today with Afrovo.

We are passionate about helping Africans unlock global opportunities.

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