Australia's 126% student visa fee hike makes Indian students consider Plan B
Australia’s international student community.
Financial Impact on Indian Students
The 126% hike in visa fees comes at a time when global inflation and rising living costs are already making studying abroad more expensive. For Indian students, who number 118,109 in Australia as of 2024, the additional AUD 890 fee represents a significant financial burden, especially for middle-income families managing tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
The increase has drawn attention to the overall affordability of Australian education, which has been a preferred choice for Indian students due to its world-class universities and post-study work opportunities. However, recent trends, including declining student numbers (down from 126,487 in 2023), suggest that rising costs and other challenges are making Australia a less attractive destination.
Declining Student Numbers and Policy Concerns
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Indian student enrollment in Australia has fluctuated over the years, impacted by events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and evolving immigration policies. While numbers rebounded in 2023, reaching 126,487, they dropped to 118,109 in 2024. The higher visa rejection rates for Indian students, now at 24.3%, and reductions in post-study work durations have added to the challenges.
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