Go to the Australian Immigration and Citizenship website at Immi.gov.au. There you will see a section for visas. Follow this link for "Student Visas." There you will find the online application. Forms are also available to print out and take to the Australian Embassy to apply for a visa.
Answer each question on the visa application completely and honestly. The application will ask for personal information including address and contact information, why you're applying, the school you are attending and financial information.
Attach the necessary documents. Each type of visa may require different documents that include copies of your passport, photograph, financial records, birth certificate and health certificate. Proof of health insurance must also be supplied. Some of these documents may need to be notarized.
Find your assessment level. Each visa is considered on its individual merits. The Australian government has an assessment system that rates the visa on five levels. Level 1 is the lowest risk and level 5 is the highest risk. The higher risk levels may require more documentation on why you are applying to visit Australia. Charts for these levels are available from the Australian Immigration and Citizenship website.
Pay the visa charge. This fee covers your visa application and is nonrefundable. It must be paid in Australian dollars. An extra fee is charged if requesting permission to work while in Australia. Credit cards are accepted online. If paying at an Australian Embassy or consulate in your country, check with the individual embassy to see what type of payment they will accept. This differs from country to country.