How To Apply For A Student Visa In Australia: 2025 Guide

Imagine swapping Manila’s bustle for a sun-soaked campus at the University of Sydney or exploring Melbourne’s hidden laneways between lectures. Australia’s renowned universities, vibrant communities, and generous post-study work rights make it a top destination for students eager to broaden their horizons.

Securing these possibilities depends entirely on one critical step: your visa application. A missing document or date mismatch can trigger frustrating delays, extra costs, or even refusal. This guide will walk you through each requirement, ensuring your Student Visa (Subclass 500) is complete and decision-ready.

In 2025, you’ll need to meet the new onshore Confirmation of Enrolment rule effective 1 January, and explore fee concessions and refund schemes for Pacific Island and Timor-Leste applicants. Follow our clear, 11-step roadmap—from accepting your Letter of Offer to planning your arrival—and take confident control of your Australian student visa journey.

Step 1: Understand the Student Visa (Subclass 500) and Check Your Eligibility

Before diving into paperwork, get familiar with the Student Visa (Subclass 500) itself and make sure you tick all the eligibility boxes. A clear grasp of its purpose, rights and conditions will save time and headaches later—especially now with 2025’s new requirements. From 1 January 2025, onshore applicants must provide a valid Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) upfront, and eligible Pacific Island and Timor-Leste citizens can access fee concessions or request partial refunds. Plus, if your study was interrupted by COVID-19 travel restrictions, you may qualify for a waiver of the visa application charge by submitting Form 1545.

Overview of Subclass 500 Visa

The Subclass 500 visa lets you:

• Study a full-time, CRICOS-registered course in Australia
• Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours in breaks (research students and their families have no limit)
• Travel in and out of Australia freely while your visa is valid
• Include eligible family members (partner and dependent children) in your application

Duration and extensions:

• Valid for up to five years, in line with your enrolment
• You can apply for a new Student visa or switch to other visas (e.g., Temporary Graduate 485) if you wish to extend your stay

Recent updates:

• Onshore applicants must lodge with a valid CoE from 1 Jan 2025
• COVID-19 impacted students can apply for a fee waiver (attach Form 1545)
• Fee concessions and refunds available for Pacific Island and Timor-Leste citizens until 22 June 2025

For complete details on conditions, processing and entitlements, see the official Subclass 500 overview.

Core Eligibility Criteria at a Glance

Use this checklist to confirm you meet all the fundamentals before moving on to Step 2: Receive and Accept Your Letter of Offer.

Step 2: Receive and Accept Your Letter of Offer

Before you can lodge your visa application, you must secure and officially accept your institution’s Letter of Offer. This document from your education provider confirms your place in a CRICOS-registered course and is the foundation for issuing your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). Without it, your Student visa (Subclass 500) application won’t be valid.

A typical Letter of Offer includes:

• Course title and exact CRICOS code
• Duration and start/end dates of study
• Tuition fees and payment schedule
• Conditions for acceptance (e.g. meeting English requirements)
• Refund policy and deadlines

Carefully reviewing these details ensures you’re enrolling in the right course under the correct terms. Once you’re satisfied, follow your provider’s instructions to accept the offer and pay the required deposit—this step triggers the generation of your CoE, usually within one to two weeks.

What to Check in Your Letter of Offer

When your Letter of Offer arrives, cross-check:

• CRICOS code: Verify it matches the course name you applied for. A mismatch could affect visa validity.
• Fee deadlines and refund terms: Note due dates for each instalment and any non-refundable fees.
• Entry conditions: Look for prerequisites or minimum English scores, and confirm you’ve met them.
• Additional requirements: Some providers may ask for health screening, police checks, or academic transcripts before issuing the CoE.

If anything seems unclear or incorrect, contact the provider’s admissions or international office immediately. Correcting errors at this stage avoids delays once you begin the visa process.

Accepting the Offer and Paying Your Deposit

After you’ve double-checked the offer, you’re ready to lock in your place:

1. Submit your acceptance form by the deadline, following the instructions in the Letter of Offer.
2. Choose an accepted payment method—most institutions take bank transfers, credit cards, or BPAY. Keep proof of payment (screenshots or official receipts).
3. Request a written confirmation of deposit receipt. This will serve as evidence if any questions arise during your visa application.
4. Expect your CoE to arrive in your inbox or student portal within 7–14 days of payment. Verify that your personal details, course dates and CRICOS code are all correct on the CoE—any discrepancy could invalidate your visa application.

With your deposit paid and CoE in hand, you’re all set to proceed to Step 3: Obtain Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE).

Step 3: Obtain Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE)

Your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) is the official proof from your education provider that you’re registered in a CRICOS-approved course. Without a valid CoE, your Student Visa (Subclass 500) application won’t be accepted. Think of it as the bridge between paying your deposit and submitting your visa paperwork—so getting it right is crucial.

How to Request and Receive Your CoE

Once you’ve paid your deposit and your Letter of Offer is formally accepted, your provider’s international or admissions office will generate your CoE. Typical turnaround times are:

• 7–14 days after receipt of your deposit and all required documentation
• Faster processing if you’ve met all entry conditions (e.g., English scores, health checks)

To request and speed up your CoE:

1. Log in to your student portal or email the international admissions team.
2. Confirm that you’ve submitted any outstanding documents (transcripts, proof of health cover, etc.).
3. Ask for the CoE as a PDF—this is the format accepted by ImmiAccount.
4. As soon as you receive it, check every detail:
   • Your full name and date of birth (must match your passport exactly)
   • CRICOS code, course name, start and end dates
   • Tuition fee amount and payment schedule

If you spot any errors—no matter how minor—contact the provider immediately. Revising a CoE after you’ve lodged your visa can introduce delays or even invalidate your application.

Packaged Courses and Multiple CoEs

If you’ve enrolled in a pathway or package of back-to-back courses, your provider may issue multiple CoEs. For example, you might start with an English language course before a diploma program. In these cases:

• Ensure the gap between courses is less than two calendar months (unless it aligns with the standard academic year break).
• Request separate CoEs for each segment of study, and keep them all on file.
• When completing your online visa application, list every CoE code in the “Course details” section—your visa duration will be calculated from the earliest start date to the latest end date of the CoEs provided.

Missing even one CoE can lead to an incomplete application. By gathering all CoEs upfront and verifying their accuracy, you’ll safeguard your application against needless hiccups.

With your CoE(s) in hand and verified, you’re ready to move on to Step 4: Create and Set Up Your ImmiAccount.

Step 4: Create and Set Up Your ImmiAccount

Your ImmiAccount is the online hub where you’ll lodge and manage your Student Visa (Subclass 500) application. Think of it as your one-stop shop for submitting forms, uploading documents and tracking updates. Setting up your account correctly from the outset means fewer headaches down the track—no missed messages, no lost attachments, no excuses.

To get started:

1. Go to the Department of Home Affairs website and click “Create an ImmiAccount.”
2. Enter a valid email address and choose a strong password—this is the only login you’ll need for all future visa business.
3. Verify your email by clicking the link sent to your inbox.
4. Complete your profile by adding basic personal details, passport information and at least two security questions.
5. Opt in for electronic communication to receive updates by email or SMS. This ensures you won’t miss any requests for more information or final visa grants.

Once you’ve finished these steps, your ImmiAccount dashboard will appear. From here you can start a new application, check the status of an existing lodgement or update your contact information at any time.

Navigating Your ImmiAccount Dashboard

The moment you log in, you’ll see a clean dashboard with tabs that matter most:

• My Applications – View the status of each visa application you’ve lodged.
• Attachments – Keep track of uploaded documents and add any missing files.
• Messages – Read correspondence from the Department, reply to requests and keep a timestamped record.
• Transactions – Check payment receipts for visa fees and any related services.
• My Details – Update your address, phone number or passport details in real time.

Make a habit of signing in at least once a week. That way, you’ll spot any overdue tasks or new messages before they become urgent.

Security and Maintenance Tips

Your ImmiAccount holds sensitive information—your passport, financial documents and personal history—so treat it like a prized possession:

• Use a unique, complex password and change it every few months. Avoid obvious choices like birthdays or common words.
• Keep your security questions answers memorable but not guessable (think of a childhood nickname or a memorable street, rather than your pet’s name).
• If your email address or phone number changes, update them immediately in the “My Details” tab. Delays here can mean lost messages or missed deadlines.
• Log out when you’re finished, especially on public or shared computers.

By following these practices, you’ll keep your application on track and your personal data secure, giving you one less thing to worry about as you prepare for life as an international student in Australia.

Step 5: Gather and Prepare Your Supporting Documents

Before you hit “Submit,” you’ll need every supporting file lined up and labelled correctly. The Department of Home Affairs prioritises “decision ready” applications—ones that include accurate, legible documents at the outset. Missing or unclear files can trigger requests for more information, which means processing delays and more stress for you. Start by running your list through the Document Checklist tool to see exactly what’s required for your situation.

Personal Identification and Passport

Your passport bio‐data page is the single most important ID document. Provide a certified copy showing:

• Your full name, date and place of birth
• Passport number, issue and expiry dates
• Nationality and photograph

If your country of birth issues national ID cards or birth certificates, include certified copies of these too. For any non-English documents, get them translated by a NAATI-accredited translator. Each translation should:

• Include the translator’s name, contact details and accreditation number
• Be accompanied by a copy of the original document

Evidence of Financial Capacity

You must prove you can cover living costs (at least AUD 29,710 per year), tuition fees and travel. Acceptable evidence includes:

• Bank statements from the last three months
• Loan approval letters
• Scholarship award letters
• Affidavits of support from a sponsor, with their bank statements

Here’s a quick breakdown of minimum amounts and typical documents:

It’s better to overshoot these amounts if you can—it demonstrates extra financial buffer and reduces the chance of queries.

Evidence of English Proficiency

Most applicants must show they meet the English language requirement. Accepted tests and scores include:

• IELTS Academic: overall band 6.0 (no band below 5.5)
• TOEFL iBT: total score 60 (minimum 12 per skill)
• PTE Academic: overall score 50 (minimum 36 per skill)

Exemptions apply if you:

• Hold a passport from the UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand or Ireland
• Completed a postgraduate research degree in English
• Studied full-time in English for at least five years in Australia or a recognised English-speaking country

Double-check your test’s eligibility and validity period on the Department’s Genuine Student requirement page.

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC)

Maintaining continuous health insurance is non-negotiable. Purchase an OSHC policy from an approved Australian provider. Decide between:

• Single policy (just you)
• Family policy (partner and children)

Ensure your cover dates align with your visa grant period. If you arrive before your course starts, your OSHC should begin on your arrival date—otherwise you risk being denied boarding or entry at the border.

Welfare Arrangements for Under-18 Applicants

If you’re under 18, you’ll need approved welfare arrangements before your visa can be granted. Options include:

• A parent or legal guardian living in Australia
• An education provider’s accommodation and welfare service (e.g., homestay)
• A NAATI-accredited case worker, relative or friend over 21 who meets Department guidelines

Your supporting documents must include:

• A signed welfare form from your guardian or accommodation provider
• A letter from your education provider confirming the arrangement

For full details, see the Department’s guidance on welfare arrangements for students under 18.

With each document at your fingertips and meticulously prepared, you’ll sail through to Step 6: Complete the Online Application Form with confidence.

Step 6: Complete the Online Application Form

With your documents ready and CoE codes at hand, it’s time to fill out the Student Visa (Subclass 500) application in ImmiAccount. Accuracy here is crucial—every typo or mismatch can trigger a request for more information and stretch out processing times. Follow these pointers to make your form “decision ready” on your first try.

Begin by logging into ImmiAccount, selecting “New Application” and choosing “Student visa (subclass 500).” You’ll move through several sections:

• Personal details
• Course details (where you enter your CoE codes)
• Visa history and travel history
• Health and character declarations
• Additional questions (Genuine Student requirement)

Take your time on each screen. If you save and log out, your progress remains intact—you’re not under a strict time limit.

Filling Out Personal and Course Details

1. Personal Details

   • Match your name, date of birth and passport number exactly to your passport bio-data page.
   • Use the same name order (given name, family name) and spelling—automated checks are unforgiving of slight differences.

2. Course Details

   • Enter each CoE code as issued by your provider. For packaged courses, list all codes in chronological order.
   • Double-check start and end dates against each CoE: a mismatch can invalidate your application.
   • Confirm the CRICOS code and course name match those on your CoE.

3. History and Declarations

   • Provide truthful answers about prior visas, study in Australia and any travel block or visa refusals.
   • The Genuine Student (GTE) section asks why you chose your course and how it fits into your future plans. Keep responses clear and concise—avoid exaggeration.

Uploading Attachments and Supporting Evidence

Once you’ve filled the form fields, you’ll attach your documents. Follow these best practices:

• File formats: PDF or JPG only.
• File size: Each upload must be under 5 MB.
• Naming convention:
  • Passport page → Passport_FamilyName.pdf
  • CoE(s) → CoE_CourseName.pdf
  • Bank statements → Financial_FamilyName.pdf

Before hitting “Upload,” open each file to confirm legibility. Blurry scans, truncated pages or wrong documents mean requests for more information—so double-check pages, orientations and translations. Once uploaded, review the “Attachments” tab in ImmiAccount to ensure every file appears correctly.

By carefully completing each field and attaching accurate, well-labelled documents, you’ll minimise queries and keep your Student visa application process moving smoothly. With your application form done, you’re ready for Step 7: Pay the Visa Application Fee.

Step 7: Pay the Visa Application Fee

Lodging your Student Visa (Subclass 500) application isn’t official until you’ve paid the visa application charge. The current fee starts at AUD 1,600 for the main applicant, with extra charges for each dependent you include. Rather than guess, run your details through the Visa Pricing Estimator. It calculates the total cost based on your circumstances—principal applicant, dependents and any concession rates you might be entitled to.

Once you know the exact amount, you’re ready to proceed with payment. Keep in mind that ImmiAccount only confirms your application after the correct fee has been received, so double-check the figure before authorising any transaction.

Payment Methods and Transaction Tips

ImmiAccount lets you settle your fee using:

• Credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard and sometimes American Express)
• BPAY (for Australian bank accounts)

After payment, immediately download or screenshot the transaction receipt. Store it in your visa folder—if the Department ever queries your payment, you’ll have proof at your fingertips. If your payment fails or you spot an error, don’t retry multiple times; contact your bank or the Department’s technical support to avoid duplicate charges.

Fee Exemptions and Partial Refunds

If you’re a citizen of a Pacific Island nation or Timor-Leste, you may qualify for a reduced visa charge when lodging a valid Student or Student Guardian visa application. Family members included under your application also receive the concession. If you applied between 1 July 2024 and 21 March 2025, you can request a partial refund until 22 June 2025 by following the steps on the Get a Refund page.

Be sure to check your eligibility before lodging: the concession is automatically applied when your passport details match an eligible country at the time of payment. If you’ve overpaid, initiate your refund request promptly—delays could mean missed deadlines.

With your visa fee paid and receipt secured, you’re set to click “Lodge application” in ImmiAccount and move on to tracking its progress in Step 8.

Step 8: Submit Your Application and Track Its Progress

With your form complete, documents uploaded and fee paid, it’s time to lodge your Student Visa (Subclass 500) application in ImmiAccount. Before hitting “Lodge application,” run through this quick final checklist:

• Review every form field for accuracy: names, dates, CoE codes and passport details must match exactly.
• Confirm all required attachments appear under Attachments and open correctly (legible, correctly labelled).
• Check your payment receipt is listed under Transactions—if you don’t see it, your application won’t be accepted.
• Save or screenshot the summary page shown after you lodge; it contains your Transaction Reference Number (TRN) and timestamp.

Once you’re confident everything is in order, click Lodge application. ImmiAccount will generate an automated confirmation—keep this on file. From here on, most of your interaction with the Department happens via the same portal.

Monitoring Messages and Requests for Information

After submission, the Messages tab becomes your lifeline. The Department may ask for:

• Clarifications on any document—like a bank statement or translation
• Additional health or character evidence
• Corrections to form entries

Best practices for a swift response:

• Check Messages at least twice a week, or enable email/SMS notifications to alert you immediately.
• Reply directly in ImmiAccount, attaching required files before the deadline.
• If you need more time or can’t supply a document, send a brief explanation—silence can be taken as non-compliance.

Timely, complete replies minimise delays and keep your application decision-ready.

What to Expect After Submission

Processing times vary based on where you applied and your student category:

• Onshore applications (lodged in Australia) are generally assessed in date order, but can take longer during peak intake periods.
• Offshore applications follow Priority 1 or Priority 2 schedules under Ministerial Direction 111—your course type and sponsorship status determine which stream you’re in.

For a ballpark figure, use the visa processing time guide tool. Bear in mind it’s an estimate, not a guarantee.

Keep an eye on your ImmiAccount dashboard for status updates:

• Received means your application and payment are in the system.
• In progress indicates active assessment.
• Outcome decided will show a visa grant number or a refusal notice.

Whether you’re waiting to pack your bags or preparing your appeal, tracking progress closely ensures you’re never caught off guard.

Step 9: Complete Health and Character Checks

Australia places high priority on the safety and integrity of its community. To secure your Student Visa (Subclass 500), you must satisfy both health and character requirements. Skipping or delaying these checks can stall your application, so start them early—ideally as soon as you’ve lodged your visa.

Health Examinations and Medical Requirements

All student visa applicants must undergo a health examination conducted by an Australian Government–appointed panel physician. Depending on your age, intended length of stay and country of origin, you might need:

• A general medical exam
• Chest X-ray (to screen for tuberculosis)
• Relevant blood tests (e.g., hepatitis, HIV)

To get started, use the Department’s “arrange your health examinations” service: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/meeting-our-requirements/health/arrange-your-health-examinations. After you complete your My Health Declaration online, you’ll receive a referral letter telling you which tests and where to attend.

Tips for smooth processing:

• Book well in advance—panel clinics can have waitlists, especially in major cities.
• Take your passport and referral letter to every appointment.
• Ensure results are sent directly to the Department; your panel physician will usually handle this electronically.

Applications can’t proceed until the Department receives your medical results, so track your referral and follow up if there’s any unexpected delay.

Character Requirements and Police Certificates

You also need to prove you meet Australia’s character standards. This means providing police certificates from each country where you’ve lived for 12 months or more since turning 16. The process generally involves:

• Contacting national and local police agencies for a clearance certificate
• Submitting certified copies of the certificates in PDF or JPEG format
• Translating any non-English certificates (include both the original and accredited translation)

Full details on what’s expected are on the Department’s character requirements page: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/meeting-our-requirements/character. Note the typical validity is 12 months from issue—if your certificate expires before your visa decision, you may need to renew it.

Addressing Prior Health or Character Issues

Honesty is crucial. If you have a pre-existing medical condition or any criminal history, disclose it upfront. When completing your declarations:

• Provide an explanatory statement outlining the circumstances.
• Attach supporting documents (medical reports, court judgments, character references).
• Be concise but thorough—omitting details can lead to refusal even if your condition or offence would otherwise be acceptable.

If you’re unsure whether an issue is relevant, discuss it with your migration agent or legal adviser. Clear communication and complete documentation will give the Department the context it needs—and keep your application moving towards a positive outcome.

Step 10: Understand Your Visa Conditions and Work Rights

Before you arrive—or as soon as you settle in—take time to familiarise yourself with the specific conditions attached to your Student Visa (Subclass 500). Compliance is non-negotiable: a breach can lead to visa cancellation, affect future applications or incur fines. You won’t receive a physical label in your passport; instead, your conditions are linked digitally via your passport number. You can view them anytime through Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO).

Key standard conditions include:

• Full-time study: Stay enrolled in the CRICOS-registered course(s) listed on your CoE.
• Attendance and progress: Attend classes and maintain satisfactory academic progress; your provider reports any concerns.
• Health insurance: Hold and maintain valid Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) throughout your stay.
• No unauthorised study: Don’t transfer or add courses without notifying your provider first.
• Visa validity: Make sure your visa covers the full duration of your studies—extend it if needed before it expires.

Work Rights and Limitations

One of the perks of a Student Visa is the ability to earn while you learn—but there are clear limits:

• Work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term time.
• Work unlimited hours during scheduled course breaks (for example, end-of-semester or holiday periods).
• Research students (masters by research and doctoral candidates) and their families have no work-hour limit.

Always confirm your hours entitlement with any employer. Overworking beyond your visa conditions can jeopardise your stay. For guidance on pay rates, superannuation and workplace protections, see the Fair Work Ombudsman.

Reporting Obligations and Maintaining Compliance

Keeping Home Affairs and your provider in the loop is just as important as meeting study and work rules. You must:

• Update your address, phone or email in ImmiAccount within 7 days of any change.
• Notify your education provider if you defer, suspend or cancel your enrolment; they will update the Department.
• Renew your OSHC before it expires—gaps in cover risk visa cancellation.
• Apply for a new student visa if you switch or extend courses.

Neglecting these obligations or any visa condition can lead to cancellation and complicate future visa options. Log in to your ImmiAccount regularly to review messages, check your details and stay compliant.

With a clear grasp of your visa conditions and work rights, you can concentrate on your studies, campus life and the many adventures Australia has to offer.

Step 11: Plan Your Arrival and First Weeks in Australia

Getting to Australia is only half the adventure—those first few days set the tone for your entire study experience. A bit of pre-departure planning goes a long way: double-check your visa grant notice, pack essential documents in your carry-on, and stay updated on any travel advisories or border measures. Jot down a quick checklist for things like travel insurance, exchange rates, an unlocked phone for a local SIM, and any forms you might need to complete before arrival. With these basics sorted, you’ll touch down ready to hit the ground running.

On-Arrival Essentials

When you land, having a rough game plan will help you breeze through customs and settle in smoothly:

• Transport from the airport: Book an airport shuttle or familiarise yourself with train and bus routes ahead of time—apps like Google Maps and local transport websites will be your best mates.
• Short-term accommodation: Reserve a hostel, Airbnb or university guest room for at least a week. This gives you breathing room to hunt for longer-term options.
• Bank account setup: Many Australian banks (e.g. Commonwealth, ANZ, Westpac) let you open an account online before you arrive. Bring your passport and proof of address to complete the process in-branch.
• Mobile phone and data: Grab a prepaid SIM from Telstra, Optus or Vodafone at the airport or a nearby shop. Look out for student-friendly data bundles.
• Proof of enrolment and health cover: Have your CoE PDF and OSHC confirmation readily accessible on your phone or in print—they’re often requested at border control.
• University registration: Head to your institution’s orientation desk, pick up your student ID card and confirm your course schedule. This is also a great chance to ask any last-minute questions about campus facilities.

Settling In and Student Support

Once the essentials are ticked off, take some time to explore the support services and social opportunities your institution offers:

• Wellbeing and academic help: Most campuses have counselling centres, learning advisors and study-skills workshops—all free resources to help you adjust.
• Clubs and societies: From Filipino student associations to hiking groups and band ensembles, joining a few clubs is the quickest way to make friends and unwind.
• Concession transport cards: If you’re in Sydney, look into a Student Opal card; in Melbourne, apply for a concession Myki. These give you discounted fares on trains, trams and buses.
• Local networks: Search Facebook groups or student-run forums to connect with fellow internationals and alumni before you arrive. They’ll share tips on accommodation hunts, part-time gigs and weekend getaways.
• Safety and emergency contacts: Save campus security numbers, local emergency services (000) and your country’s consulate or embassy details in your phone contact list.

By ticking off this pre-arrival checklist and tapping into campus support right away, you’ll lay down solid roots for an enriching study journey in Australia.

Ready to Begin Your Student Visa Journey

You’ve now got a clear roadmap through every milestone: from choosing your course and locking in a CRICOS-registered spot, to lodging a decision-ready application and preparing for life Down Under. By following these 11 steps—accepting your Letter of Offer, securing your CoE, setting up your ImmiAccount, gathering complete documentation, paying fees, and tracking your progress—you’ll minimise avoidable delays, extra costs or stress.

Start your preparations early. Revisit each step to double-check CoE dates, align your OSHC coverage with your arrival, and book health and character checks well before departing. A little organisation now goes a long way toward a smooth transition to studying in Australia.

Need personalised guidance? The migration experts at Simon Mander Consulting are ready to help. With over 22 years of experience and thousands of successful visa grants, our team can review your documents, troubleshoot complex cases and keep you on track. Contact us today and take the confident first step toward your Australian education journey.

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