Studying in Australia is likely to become tougher for international students. After implementing measures to only grant genuine study visas and altering English language requirements, the Australian government is limiting the number of student visas from 2025.
Starting 2025, a total of 270000 new international student visas will be issued by the Australian government of which 145000 visas are for Public universities and around 30000 for Private universities and non-university higher education providers.
India remains the second-largest source country for international student enrolments in Australia, with 1,22,391 Indian students studying in the country between January and September 2023.
The new tougher criteria and limited visa options may make it challenging for students to pursue foreign education in Australia. In an interview with Financial Express Online, Ankit Mehra, CEO and Co-Founder of GyanDhan, discusses the next steps for students looking to study in Australia.
Will new student cap rules make it harder to study in Australia?
Australia’s 2025 student cap of 270,000 will make studying abroad tougher in the short term. Though aimed at creating a “fairer system,” it limits seats, increasing competition and costs, and making it harder for students to pursue their education dreams.
In Australia’s vocational education sector, there were 52,996 Indian students enrolled in 2022, and 60,122 in 2023, alongside students from other nationalities. The new cap for this sector has now been set at just 95,000 for all international students, signaling a significant reduction.
Similarly, in the higher education sector, the number of Indian students increased from 37,740 in 2022 to 58,018 in 2023, and by May 2024, it had reached 74,679. However, the cap for 2025 has been set at 145,000 for all international students.
This clearly indicates a growing demand for studying in Australia, but the limited number of available seats will lead to increased competition, making it more difficult to secure a spot. Moreover, other factors, such as the doubling of visa fees and an increase in the minimum savings requirement, will add further challenges for prospective students.
What should students need to keep in mind to get selected by universities, after Australia’s new cap rules?
With the new cap on international student enrollments in place, students aspiring to study in Australia will need to be more strategic in their approach. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
Submit your application early by researching deadlines well in advance and preparing the necessary documents as soon as possible. Start the process at least 12 months before your intended start date.
Focus on strong academics by improving your GPA, preparing thoroughly for any required standardized tests, and seeking letters of recommendation that highlight your strengths.
Consider public universities by researching which institutions have a larger intake and aligning your academic and career goals with programs offered by these universities.
Clearly demonstrate genuine academic intent by writing a compelling statement of purpose that outlines your long-term goals and shows why you are passionate about studying in Australia.
Ensure you meet the financial requirements by saving up early, organizing proof of funds, and exploring scholarship opportunities that can help cover expenses.
What are some alternative countries and universities that international students may consider?
With fewer spots available in Australian universities, students are looking worldwide for great places to study. Canada, even with its cap of 360,000 international students, is still a top choice, especially for practical courses at colleges like Seneca and George Brown.
For students looking for more options, New Zealand and Ireland are fantastic because they don’t have these caps. New Zealand’s universities, like the University of Waikato and Victoria University of Wellington, are great for hands-on learning. Ireland, with its booming tech scene and student-friendly policies, offers excellent programs, especially at Technological University Dublin.
Other countries like Germany and France also offer top-notch education. Germany is perfect for STEM students with its affordable courses at places like the Technical University of Munich. France offers a mix of tradition and modern education at famous schools like Sorbonne and École Polytechnique. These countries aren’t just about quality education; they also welcome international students warmly, making them perfect alternatives for those looking to study abroad