Australia Limits International Student Enrolments

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.

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