Australia Limits International Student Enrolments
Australia is planning to limit the number of international student enrolments. The Australian government has instructed Australian universities to make sure that domestic students make up more than 50% of the total student population on campus. This new rule is announced as the country is facing challenges like an increase in housing demand and an increased dependence on international students' fees. According to the University Living Australia Report 2024, Australia welcomed around 800,000 international students. Out of this number, around 17 percent students were from India. In 2023 - 2024, international education contributed about AUD 51.5 billion which included AUD 21.7 billion coming from tuition fees and AUD 29.6 billion from goods and services. Moreover, international students in Australia also support over 250,000 jobs. For Indian students looking to study in Australia, the limit on international students would result in fewer available spots, increased competition, and a stricter admission process.
This Story also Contains
- Cap on International Students in Australia
- Why is Australia Limiting International Student Enrolment?
- How will Indian Students be affected by the Australian Cap on International Students?
Cap on International Students in Australia
Australia is planning on limiting the international students' enrolment to prioritize Australian students. The education minister of Australia, Jason Clare, stated that Australian students should represent more than 50% of total enrolment in Australian universities. It was reported through the government’s data that universities in Australia have a high percentage of international student enrolments compared to domestic students. The following international students' data was reported by THE.
In 2024, the University of Sydney enrolled 51% of international students. In 2023, there were 49% of international students and before the Covid-19 pandemic, there were 43% of international students.
Murdoch University welcomed 57% of international students.
RMIT University had more than 50% of international student enrollment.
The University of New South Wales had 47% international students in 2024.
International students at the University of Wollongong accounted for 46%.
Monash University accepted 45% of international students from various countries.
The University of Melbourne welcomed 44% international students out of its total student population..
Based on the data stated above, the Australian government has instructed its universities to enrol more domestic students. These should account for more than 50% of the total university’s population.
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Why is Australia Limiting International Student Enrolment?
There are a few reasons why Australia is limiting international student enrolment. These are as follows:
- Financial pressures: A growing number of Australian universities have become dependent on tuition fees from international students, especially as government funding faces challenges.
- Prioritizing domestic students: The government is emphasizing that universities should prioritize educating more Australians while still keeping an international focus.
- Increased housing demand: The increase in international students also creates challenges in the availability of housing, workforce immigration, and maintaining a balanced campus environment.
How will Indian Students be affected by the Australian Cap on International Students?
Out of the large number of international students enrolment in Australia in 2024, 17% students were from India. This means that Indian students make up a larger international student community in Australia. With the introduction of the new rule to limit international students in Australia, Indian students will be highly impacted.
With the new rule to keep domestic students as the majority, universities may limit international students' enrolment, resulting in limited seats for Indian students.
Due to the limited seats for Indian students in Australia, the competition will also increase. Fewer students will be able to get enrolled in top universities in Australia.
The new enrolment cap might also have an impact on the visa process and the post-study work options available for Indian students.
Also Read
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is Australia limiting international students?
A:
Yes, the Australian government has asked the universities to limit the number of international students enrolled and instead increase domestic enrolment. Australian universities must enrol more than 50% of Australian students.
Q: What is the cap for student visa in Australia 2025?
A:
The government planned to implement a cap of 2,70,000 on international students. However, this was not executed. Now, the Australian government has instructed all its universities that more than 50% of their total population must be domestic students. This will automatically limit the number of international students coming to Australia.
Q: What are the limitations of student visa in Australia?
A:
An Australian student visa only allows students to work for 48 hours every fortnight during the academic course. Also, students must be enrolled in a full-time course to work during their academic course.
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Hello Aspirant,
SP Jain’s BBA has a reputation for global exposure because students rotate between campuses located in Dubai, Singapore, and Sydney. The campuses are high-quality, and the peer group is diverse -- bringing together students from numerous countries which helps develop a vibrant and competitive crowd. The study abroad experience is generally smooth - Dubai has a cosmopolitan and safe feel, Singapore is similarly safe and very organized, with strict rule and expectations but good for students, while Australia has a more relaxed but multicultural feel. Overall, the program provides a good balance of educational, international exposure, and cultural learning.
Hello ,
As per current trend , The processing time is of 30-56 days that is 1 to 8 weeks , it is faster if your university is under 80% international cap , priority 1 , slower if over 80%
TIPS TO HELP FOR QUICKER PROCESSING
1. Submit a complete and accurate application
2.Apply online via ImmiAccount
3.Lodge your application well in advance
4.Monitor your ImmiAccount regularly
hope this helps
Lodge your application well in advance
Hello,
If you have completed your MD from the Philippines and wish to practice or further study in Australia, you will need to follow the Australian Medical Council (AMC) process. First, verify your degree with ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates) through EPIC verification. Then, choose the AMC pathway — typically the Standard Pathway (for non-specialists) which involves the AMC MCQ Exam and AMC Clinical Exam, or the Competent Authority Pathway if you qualify. If your aim is postgraduate training, you should also explore specialist medical colleges in Australia for recognition of prior training. Additionally, you will need to meet English proficiency requirements through IELTS or OET. Visa requirements will vary depending on whether you apply for work, training, or further studies. It’s a detailed process, so starting early and following official AMC guidelines is key.
Thank you for your question!
Hello!
So if you are interested India currently and wants to work as a doctor in Australia in future then:
1. Complete MBBS in India from a recognized medical college.
2. Pass the Australian Medical Council exams
First exam is MCQ based and second one is Clinical exam which assesses your practical skills.
3. English Proficiency Test for that you have to clear IELTS.
4. Apply for registration with Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.
5. Apply for internship or position according to your qualification.
6. Apply for Visa and move to Australia once selected.
Yes, you can get admission in some Australian universities with 59% in 12th grade.Many university offer diploma or foundation courses first. IELTS or PTE is also needed. Choose the right course and apply early. Each university has different rules and regulations,so check before applying.
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