Australia’s new visa policies and potential caps on student visas create uncertainty for Indian applicants
Indian students preparing for overseas education may face new challenges as Australia tightens its student visa policies. With discussions about capping international student numbers and stricter visa assessments, many Indian students are reconsidering their study plans in Australia, reported timesofindia.indiatimes.com.
Australia’s new Genuine Student requirement and potential visa caps raise concerns among Indian applicants about stricter scrutiny and higher rejection rates
Australia, a favored destination for Indian students with an estimated 1,18,109 Indian enrollees in 2024, is undergoing significant changes in its student visa policies. The Australian government is considering capping international student numbers at 270,000 for 2025, which may limit Indian student enrolment across universities and programs.
While the cap has not been officially imposed, education experts predict stricter visa regulations after the upcoming federal elections. “The buzz across institutions suggests that the cap will likely be enforced post-elections. This uncertainty is already affecting Indian students’ interest in studying in Australia,” said Sushil Sukhwani, director of Edwise International, an overseas education consultancy.
New Visa Policy Raises Concerns
In March 2024, the Australian government introduced the Genuine Student (GS) requirement, replacing the previous Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) policy. The new GS system emphasizes that applicants must demonstrate a genuine intent to study, stay as students, and prioritize education as their primary goal. This change has led to more rigorous assessments of student visa applications, increasing concerns about higher rejection rates for Indian students.
“The GS requirement reflects Australia’s commitment to maintaining high educational standards. The IELTS score requirement has also increased to 6.0 for student visas and 6.5 for Temporary Graduate visas, encouraging stronger English proficiency,” said Saurabh Arora, founder and CEO of University Living, a global student accommodation company.
Although stricter visa regulations and housing concerns pose challenges, experts believe that Australia’s robust academic infrastructure and promising career opportunities will continue to attract Indian students
Universities Implement Stricter Checks
Leading Australian universities are conducting their own verification processes to ensure they enroll genuine students who meet admission standards. “We have implemented rigorous checks to maintain the integrity of our student body. While there are concerns about visa refusals, we continue to support Indian students through clear guidance and resources,” said Ravneet Pawha, vice president (global engagement) and CEO (South Asia) at Deakin University.
Despite concerns, Australia remains a top destination for Indian students due to its world-class education, cultural diversity, and post-graduation employment opportunities.
Housing Challenges and Institutional Support
Housing remains a critical concern for Indian students in Australia, with rising costs adding to their challenges. According to University Living’s research, there were 777,442 international students and only 130,000 purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) beds available in 2024. “Private rentals vary significantly by city, with Sydney averaging A$ 3,328 per month and more affordable options like Adelaide at A$ 1,884,” Arora explained.
Australian universities are stepping up efforts to assist international students in securing suitable housing. “We are dedicated to helping students find accommodations through university-managed options and private rentals,” Pawha emphasized.
Future Outlook for Indian Students
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