Australian student visa fee hike of 126% has sparked concern among the international student community, especially Indian students. Starting July 1, 2024, the visa fee will rise from AUD 710 to AUD 1,600, raising questions about Australia’s affordability and competitiveness as an education destination.
Australian Student Visa Fee Hike: A Financial Burden on Indian Students
Indian students form a large majority of Australia’s international student group, which currently stands at 118,109 as of 2024. The additional AUD 890 fee has become a big concern for middle-income families already battling tuition fees, accommodation, and rising costs of living.
This growth is amidst falling student numbers. From 126,487 in 2023, the decline to 118,109 in 2024 is a sign of increasing unease over affordability and immigration policies. Financial constraints, coupled with stricter post-study work rights and visa rejection rates of 24.3%, are making Australia less appealing.
Post-Study Work Opportunities: Shrinking Horizons
Another blow for Indian students is the reduced period for post-study work visas. Earlier policies made longer stays possible, but for master’s graduates, their period will be two years, and three years for PhD graduates. Such changes would not encourage students who use opportunities for work as the reason to choose a country of study.
Study Abroad Alternatives
The increasing prices, along with tight policies, are forcing Indian students to look for cheaper alternatives for a college degree.
Asia: Japan and South Korea
These countries are becoming popular again with government scholarships, relatively cheap fees, and reduced cost of living. Technological concentration, along with global university rankings, attracts students from different places seeking quality.
Europe: Germany, France, and Ireland
Tuition-free education at public universities in Germany is a strong pull for Indian students looking to study STEM fields. The targets of 30,000 Indian students by 2030 by France and student-friendly work-study programs by Ireland also act as an attractor.
Canada and the UK
More traditional, still competitive: Canada and the UK have positive post-study work policies and streamlined visa processes in their favor.
This can challenge the India-Australia education tie, one that has always been integral to both nations’ prosperity. Though Australia still attracts many students for study opportunities, the rising prices will push more Indian students away from this destination toward some more affordable but excellent options available elsewhere.
Conclusion: Preparing for the Future
The 126% increase in Australian student visa fees is a watershed moment for Indian students. While education in Australia remains of international standards, financial pressure, coupled with policy changes, has forced many to look away. Perhaps it is about time that the student base looked at other alternatives from Asia and Europe for some balance between academics and funds.
As the dialogue between Indian and Australian authorities continues, it is yet to be seen whether Australia can address these challenges and maintain its position as a leading destination for Indian students.
