In a historic shift, India has overtaken China to become the leading country for Australian student visa approvals in February 2025.
According to recent data, more than 2,734 Indian students received visas to study in Australia, up from 2,398 in January. By the end of February, over 5,000 visas had been granted to Indian students, positioning India as the top source of international students in Australia.
This development marks a significant change in global education trends, as China has long dominated student visa issuance to Australia. While China started the year with 3,573 student visas issued in January, India’s rapid growth signals a shift in student mobility patterns and Australia’s increasing appeal among Indian learners.
The rise in Indian student enrolments is attributed to a combination of factors, including Australia’s high-quality education system, robust career prospects, and vibrant campus life. Popular fields of study among Indian students include IT, engineering, business, and healthcare.
Additionally, Australian universities and the government have introduced targeted initiatives such as scholarships, student exchange programs, and streamlined visa processes. These efforts have made Australia a more attractive destination for Indian students seeking international education opportunities.
The Premier of South Australia recently visited India to promote educational opportunities, accompanied by university chancellors and vice-chancellors from Flinders University and the University of Adelaide. Their discussions emphasised research collaborations and academic exchange, further strengthening India-Australia ties in the education sector.
By September 2023, approximately 122,391 Indian students were studying in Australia, making India the second-largest source of international students. With the latest surge in visa approvals, experts predict that India will maintain its strong presence in Australian universities.
Despite this upward trend, last year the Australian government has announced plans to cap new overseas student admissions at 270,000 for the 2025 calendar year.
Albanese governmnet’s policy aims to address housing market pressures and maintain stability in the job market. The cap follows other restrictive measures, including increased visa fees and stricter assessment criteria, which have led to rising rejection rates for international students.
The proposed cap has sparked concerns among Indian students and education stakeholders, with many viewing it as a barrier to access. Recent data suggests that while applications from Indian students have increased, visa rejections have also surged due to policy changes introduced in 2023.
As Australia remains a top destination for higher education, Indian students are expected to continue seeking opportunities despite evolving immigration policies. Experts advise prospective students to apply early and consider public universities for better admission prospects.
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