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Tighter u.s., u.k. immigration policies
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India ranks second in foreign student enrolments in Australia from 2003 to 2024
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Experts point to friendlier post-study work rules and high academic standards
Restrictive immigration and education policies in countries like the United States and the United Kingdom are pushing more Indian students to consider Australia as their top destination for higher education, education experts say, reported thehindu.com.
Data from the Australian government’s Education Department reveals that between 2003 and 2024, India ranked second only to China in international student enrolments in Australia. In 2024 alone, Indian students formed a record-breaking 16% of all international enrolments, totalling 139,038.
The report quoted Vik Singh, Commissioner of Education at the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), as saying, “Australia has remained a key destination for aspiring Indian students for many years now. The number has been growing consistently, and I see it continuing upward.”
Why Indian Students Are Choosing Australia?
Singh attributes this rising preference to several factors, including:
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Stricter U.S. and U.K. visa and post-study work rules
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Globally ranked Australian universities
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A safer and more welcoming environment
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Liberal post-study work options, especially for Indian students
Thanks to the Australia-India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI-ECTA), Indian students can remain in Australia for up to four years after graduation to gain work experience. “This is more generous than many countries offer,” Singh noted.
Strengthening Bilateral Academic Ties
Australia is also among the first countries to establish branch campuses in India. The University of Wollongong and Deakin University already operate Indian campuses, with more set to open in Mumbai and Delhi.
“There are over 430 academic partnerships between Australian and Indian institutions. This allows students to benefit from a dual-degree experience, earning qualifications from both Australian and Indian universities,” Singh added.
Contrast with U.S. and U.K. Policies
The growing preference for Australia comes at a time when the U.S. and U.K. have tightened rules for international students. The U.S. recently paused student visa appointments and began screening applicants’ social media accounts for “anti-American” views. Additionally, proposed cuts in university funding and stricter visa oversight under the Trump administration have created an atmosphere of uncertainty for Indian students.
These developments are prompting many families to look towards Australia’s stable and student-friendly policies, which offer clarity on immigration, employment, and education.
