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Australia’s Appeal to Indian Students Soars Amidst Global Policy Shifts
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Australia is increasingly becoming the preferred destination for Indian students seeking higher education,with record enrollments reported in 2024. This surge is attributed to a combination of factors,including restrictive policies in the United States and the United Kingdom,alongside Australia’s attractive post-study work opportunities and highly-ranked universities.
Record Indian Student Enrollment in Australian Universities
Data from the Australian government’s Education department reveals that India ranks second in international student enrollments to Australian universities between 2003 and 2024. In 2024, a record 139,038 students from India enrolled, constituting 16% of the total foreign student population, second only to China [1].
Did You Know? Australia has seen a steady year-on-year increase in Indian student enrollments for the last five years, with over 130,000 currently studying there.
Factors Driving the Trend
Several factors contribute to Australia’s growing appeal. Vik Singh, Commissioner of Education at the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), highlights restrictive policies in other countries, the high global rankings of Australian universities, student safety, and a liberal post-study work system as key drivers.
The Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement allows Indian students to stay and work in Australia for up to four years after graduation, a more generous offering then many other international destinations. This agreement, signed in 2022, has strengthened economic ties and facilitated greater mobility for students and professionals between the two nations [2].
Restrictive Policies in the US and UK
Recent policy changes in the United States and the United Kingdom have created uncertainty for international students. The United States has increased scrutiny of visa applicants’ social media accounts [3], while the UK is tightening post-study work visa rules, reducing the stay period for graduates to 18 months [4]. These changes make Australia a comparatively stable and welcoming option.
Pro Tip: Research scholarship opportunities and visa requirements well in advance to ensure a smooth transition to studying in Australia.
australian university Presence in India
Australia is among the first countries to establish branch campuses in India. The University of Wollongong and Deakin University already have campuses in India, with plans for more in Mumbai and Delhi. These campuses allow students to earn an Australian degree without leaving India.
Furthermore, there are approximately 430 partnerships between Australian and Indian institutions, offering students opportunities to gain qualifications from both countries. This collaborative approach enhances the educational experience and provides students with a global viewpoint.