Australia has become a hub for international students, with a record number of 1,095,298 enrolled in Australian institutions by the end of 2024, marking a 13% annual increase. The surge in enrolments has led to a significant boost in revenue for universities, with some institutions surpassing $1 billion in tuition fees from overseas students.
The University of NSW experienced a substantial 61% rise in annual revenue from international students, reaching $1.4 billion in 2024. Monash University, Deakin, and Curtin also saw notable increases in revenue. This influx of international students has positioned several Australian universities among the top revenue earners globally.
While Australia’s appeal to international students continues to grow, other popular destinations like Canada and the UK have witnessed a decline in enrolments due to policy changes and restrictions. Canada’s decision to impose caps on student intake and the UK’s prohibition on students bringing partners have contributed to the drop in international student numbers in these countries.
In contrast to the challenges faced by other countries, Australia has emerged as a preferred destination for international students, as indicated by a study by Dutch analytics company Studyportals. The report highlighted that Australia was the only major destination to experience an increase in overseas student demand in the first quarter of 2025.
Amidst the growing international student population, the Australian government faces calls for reforms to ensure quality education and migration practices. Proposals include tightening English-language proficiency requirements, increasing financial obligations for students, limiting work hours for overseas students, and enhancing post-study visa regulations to elevate the overall standard of international education in the country.
However, concerns have been raised about the government’s commitment to addressing the issues surrounding international student visas. While there are recommendations to curb visa exploitation and enhance the quality of the migration system, doubts persist about the government’s willingness to implement these reforms effectively.
Despite the challenges and controversies surrounding international student visas, Australia’s higher education sector remains open and welcoming to students from around the world. The country’s universities emphasize their commitment to supporting displaced students affected by policy changes in other nations, underscoring the importance of international education as a valuable asset that fosters global connections and mutual understanding.
In conclusion, the influx of international students in Australia reflects the country’s appeal as a premier destination for quality education. As the government grapples with policy reforms and the need to balance quantity with quality in the international education sector, the ongoing dialogue surrounding student visas and migration practices will shape the future landscape of Australia’s education system and its global reputation as an educational powerhouse.
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