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Economic Times
15-07-2025
- Business
- Economic Times
Why Australia attracts international students – even with higher costs of living
iStock Australia continues to draw a steady flow of international students, including thousands from India, with its globally recognised education system. Despite regulatory changes and rising costs, the country remains a preferred destination, offering academic flexibility, post-study work options, and a multicultural learning environment. Cultural, academic, and growing career opportunities Australia offers more than just classroom education. Vocational Education and Training (VET) programs cater to job-ready skills in fields such as hospitality and early childhood education. Post-study work visas, especially subclass 485, allow up to four years of professional experience, creating pathways to permanent residency, according to a report by University benefit from a multicultural environment, with learners from over 200 countries contributing to a vibrant campus life. Australia's universities are equipped with modern infrastructure, including research labs, high-speed internet, and digital learning such as the Australia Awards and university-specific grants ease the financial burden. Some scholarships offer up to AUD 50,000 and are based on academic merit.'I chose Australia for its strong industry links and the global value of its degree. The support services and cultural exposure are an added bonus,' said one Indian student during the survey analysis by University Living, Enrolment trends and spending patterns As per a report by University Living, Australia has seen a strong rebound in international student enrolments since the pandemic-induced dip. Between 2021 and 2024, there was a 35.8% rise in international admissions. Future growth is projected at 5.3% annually, driven by high global demand for Australian degrees, particularly in technology and increasingly opt for programs in engineering, IT, business, and health sciences, drawn by the practical learning methods and global career potential. English is the primary language of instruction, giving students an added advantage in international job by international students is significant. Average annual tuition ranges from AUD 20,000 to AUD 50,000 for undergraduate degrees, with postgraduate programs reaching up to AUD 55,000. MBA and specialist programs like medicine can exceed AUD 80,000. Cost of living: A key concern The average annual living cost in Australia now stands at AUD 29,710, according to the University Living report. Accommodation is the biggest expense, taking up 57%-64% of monthly budgets. In cities like Sydney and Melbourne, private apartments can cost up to AUD 3,400 a month. Food, transport, and health insurance are also key budget items. Public transport passes range from AUD 172 to AUD 220 monthly, while eating out regularly can cost over AUD 540. Health insurance through Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory, with annual premiums ranging from AUD 478 to AUD 800. Visa policy evolution Australia's visa rules have tightened recently. The report analysed, from July 2023, students are allowed to work only 48 hours per fortnight during term. A new Genuine Student (GS) requirement has replaced the older GTE system, focusing on academic January 2025, a National Planning Level (NPL) will cap new international enrolments at 270,000 per year. Applicants also need to show increased financial capacity-up to AUD 29,710, and meet higher English language standards, with IELTS requirements rising from 5.5 to 6.0.A new system under Ministerial Direction 111 prioritises offshore applications based on provider enrolment status. This replaces the older MD107 and aims to streamline visa processing without affecting current rising costs, Australia remains a competitive education destination due to its flexible academic pathways, robust visa structure, and career-linked programs. However, students must prepare for higher costs and stricter eligibility norms in future. Although, with strategic planning, Australia offers long-term academic and career dividends that can prove to be useful for an individual. (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates) Elevate your knowledge and leadership skills at a cost cheaper than your daily tea. Rumblings at the top of Ola Electric The hybrid vs. EV rivalry: Why Maruti and Mahindra pull in different directions. What's best? How Safexpress bootstrapped its way to build India's largest PTL Express business Zee promoters have a new challenge to navigate. And it's not about funding or Sebi probe. Newton vs. industry: Inside new norms that want your car to be more fuel-efficient Stock Radar: UltraTech Cements hit a fresh record high in July; what should investors do – book profits or buy the dip? F&O Radar | Deploy Bear Put Spread in Nifty to gain from index correction Weekly Top Picks: These stocks scored 10 on 10 on Stock Reports Plus
Time of India
10-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Hyderabad students forgo ivy dreams for offbeat courses
Representative Image Students from Hyderabad are increasingly ditching the conventional route of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) programmes in the US or UK, opting instead for offbeat courses in less expensive, non-traditional study destinations. There has been a 20–30% spike in applications, according to study abroad consultants. 'We're seeing a growing number of Indian students explore courses beyond the traditional STEM and business paths, fields like culinary arts, fashion, architecture, fine arts, and interior design. While STEM continues to attract the majority, this shift signals a broader mindset where more students are choosing what they genuinely enjoy, not just what feels safe or conventional," said Saurabh Arora, founder of University Living, a global student accommodation service provider. STEM courses You Can Also Check: Hyderabad AQI | Weather in Hyderabad | Bank Holidays in Hyderabad | Public Holidays in Hyderabad He added, 'The number of Indian students in Germany rose from 46,000 in 2024 to an estimated 54,000 in 2025 and could cross 1.14 lakh by 2030. France already hosts over 7,600 Indian students, with that number expected to more than double by the end of the decade.' Italy, though often overlooked, is a global hub for design, arts, and culinary education and is gaining momentum, with around 10,000 Indian students currently enrolled and projections suggesting over 25,000 by 2030. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Đây có thể là thời điểm tốt nhất để giao dịch vàng trong 5 năm qua IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo 'The US remains popular for tech and STEM courses, but students are beginning to weigh their options. Countries like France and Germany are offering a wide variety of affordable programmes that aren't just STEM-focused,' said Chirandeep Patnaik, founder of Lemma One Consulting. 'France, for instance, has seen a spike in demand for programmes in fashion, history, event management, and social sciences, especially after it extended its poststudy work visa for master's students from two years to five. The prioritynow is employability and exposure. And that's pushing both students and their families to think outside the US-UK box.' Low cost of education Students are also driven by the low cost of education. 'Public universities in France offer programmes in the Rs 7 lakh to Rs 10 lakh range, which is far more affordable compared to the Rs 25 lakh or more needed for a year in the US,' added Patnaik. 'You're looking at quality education and global exposure at a fraction of the cost,' he said. Germany, too, continues todraw students interested in engineering, but now also in urban planning and industrial design. Niche programmes 'Most German public universities don't charge tuition fees, and the cost of living is manageable. That's a huge draw,' said Sahas Yuvaraj from Way2 Abroad Consultancy, a consultancy based in Hyderabad. New Zealand and the Netherlands are also seeing an uptick, especially for niche programmes in creative arts and digital media. 'Indian students are realising that they can get globally relevant skills in newer destinations that are less saturated and more welcoming,' said Yuvaraj. Even Southeast Asia is emerging as an alternative. Countries like the Philippines are seeing enrolments in fields such as medicine and healthcare, particularly due to the English-speaking environment and easier admission processes. 'Earlier, the question was 'which Ivy League or top US school should I go to?' Now it's 'where can I study what I love without breaking the bank and still get work experience?'' said Rajni Mankotiya, an educational consultant. 'That change is quite refreshing.'
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Business Standard
09-07-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
New Zealand eases student visa rules for Indians: What changes now
In a relief for Indian students who are increasingly looking at New Zealand as one of their top higher education destinations, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has removed a long-standing requirement that slowed down visa processing for thousands. From June 23, 2025, India has been added to the 'List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment' (LQEA), removing the need for most Indian degree holders to undergo the costly and time-consuming International Qualification Assessment (IQA). 'The LQEA list is part of our commitment to create a more efficient and transparent system for skilled migrants,' said INZ in a statement. The exemption is expected to speed up visa decisions for Indians applying under work, residence and post-study immigration routes. 'New Zealand's decision to add India to the List of Qualifications Exempt from Assessment is a step toward streamlining the pathway for Indian students and skilled professionals. By removing the need for an additional qualification assessment, the process becomes faster, more affordable, and more student-friendly,' Mayank Maheswari, co-founder and COO at University Living, a global student accommodation platform told Business Standard. What changes for Indian applicants The IQA, used to match foreign degrees to New Zealand's academic framework, was previously mandatory for most skilled migrant applications. With India's inclusion in the LQEA: Most degrees from recognised Indian universities are now accepted without additional assessment IQA exemption applies to: — skilled migrant category (SMC) visa applicants — green list roles (engineers, healthcare workers, ICT professionals) — accredited employer work visa (AEWV) applicants — post-study work visa applicants Applicants must still meet other conditions, including English language scores and relevant experience. India is one of nine new countries added to the list, alongside France, Germany, Italy, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Sweden and Switzerland. New Zealand's growing popularity with Indian students New Zealand is gaining traction as a preferred study destination for Indian students. Between January and August 2024, enrolments from India grew 34 per cent to 10,640, up from 7,930 in the full year of 2023, according to New Zealand Education. "New Zealand provides welcoming policies, globally recognised universities and developing post-study work possibilities. It also offers strong ties with India and an exceptional quality of life,' IDP Education said in a recent report. According to Global Finance's 2025 report, New Zealand ranks 12th among the world's happiest countries. It also topped Remote's Global Life-Work Balance Index 2025 and stands third on the Global Peace Index, offering a safe and supportive environment for students. Education New Zealand data shows that Indian students now make up 11 per cent of international university enrolments, second only to Chinese students. The University Living report Beyond Beds & Benches—Decoding ANZ's Education System describes New Zealand's universities as 'globally respected for academic excellence, research innovation and real-world skills.' 'These institutions offer diverse programmes across undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral levels, drawing students from around the world,' said Maheswari. An edge in the global talent race Immigration experts say the exemption is part of a broader effort by New Zealand to simplify processes and stand out in a competitive global market for skilled workers. 'With global mobility rising, especially in STEM and business fields, streamlined systems can give countries like New Zealand an edge over Australia, the UK and Canada,' said Aritra Ghosal, founder and CEO at OneStep Global. 'Until now, Indian degree holders had to undergo the IQA—a time-consuming, costly and often opaque process. This exemption removes a procedural hurdle, allowing faster visa processing and greater certainty for applicants. It also reflects confidence in the rigour of Indian higher education,' Ghosal told Business Standard. Mamta Shekhawat, founder of said the move shows 'profound faith' in Indian academic credentials. 'This will help fulfil thousands of dreams, making New Zealand an ideal and accessible destination. The changes will reduce financial stress and delays in processing,' she told Business Standard. New Zealand's academic rankings and affordability All eight New Zealand universities feature in the QS World University Rankings 2026: University of Auckland (#65) University of Otago (#197) Massey University (#230) Victoria University of Wellington (#240) University of Canterbury (#261) University of Waikato (#281) Lincoln University (#407) Auckland University of Technology (AUT) (#410) IDP Education said the country offers excellence in fields such as data science, engineering, business analytics, nursing, education and hospitality. The annual cost of education ranges from NZD 20,000 to 40,000 (about ₹10.3 lakh to ₹20.6 lakh per year), making it more affordable than the US and UK, and comparable to Australia and Canada. Post-study work policies support long-term plans New Zealand's post-study work (PSW) visa policy is another draw for international students. As of March 2025, the unemployment rate stands at 5.1 per cent. International students who complete at least 30 weeks of Master's or PhD studies in New Zealand can stay and work for three years. Since late 2024, students pursuing shorter, stackable qualifications are also eligible. For example, a student completing a 30-week postgraduate diploma (Level 8) followed by a Master's can still access the full PSW benefit. With around 270,000 Indians residing in New Zealand, students can find cultural familiarity and community support, along with expanding professional networks after graduation.
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Business Standard
07-07-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Australia's student visa now world's costliest, but Indians undeterred
Australia has once again increased its student visa fee for college/universities, making it the world's costliest. From July 1, 2025, international students must pay AUD 2,000 (around ₹1.12 lakh) to apply, up from AUD 1,600 earlier. Despite the jump, education consultants say Indian students are unlikely to look elsewhere. 'For those budgeting between AUD 55,000 to 85,000 (approximately ₹30.8 lakh to ₹47.6 lakh) annually on tuition, housing, and living expenses, this AUD 400 increase in visa cost is noticeable but may not be decisive,' Saurabh Arora, founder and CEO of University Living told Business Standard. Students focus on post-study outcomes 'What students evaluate is 'value'. Post-study work rights, academic reputation, quality of life, and long-term career outcomes carry far more weight than a one-time fee adjustment,' Arora added. Australia's Temporary Graduate Visa (Subclass 485) allows international graduates to stay and work for two to six years, depending on qualifications. Universities such as Melbourne, Monash, and UNSW remain popular among Indian students for their research quality and employment outcomes. Other destinations gaining traction Even as Australia remains dominant, countries like Germany, France, and New Zealand are attracting more Indian students: • University Living's Europe Report says Indian enrolments in Germany grew by 38 per cent between 2021 and 2023, and may triple by 2030 • France, Spain, and Italy offer affordable tuition, cultural experiences, and good post-study opportunities • New Zealand appeals to students in healthcare, STEM, and sustainability fields due to its practical training focus Australia still leads global student preferences A March 2025 survey by IDP Education showed Australia as the top study destination among Indian students, surpassing the United States. Australia accounted for 28 per cent of first-choice preferences, followed by the US (22 per cent), UK (21 per cent), and Canada (13 per cent). 'Despite the rise in visa and tuition fees, Australia continues to see strong interest from Indian students. Many families approach it as a long-term investment, weighing factors like academic quality, post-study work rights, safety, and the overall student experience,' Piyush Kumar, regional director – South Asia, Canada and Latin America at IDP Education told Business Standard. Finances remain the biggest worry According to IDP's Emerging Futures Seven – Voice of the International Student• report, based on over 6,000 responses globally including nearly 1,400 from India: • 66 per cent of students identified finances as their biggest concern • 47 per cent mentioned visa difficulties • 55 per cent said scholarships influence destination choice • 54 per cent looked for part-time work options • 43 per cent cited housing costs • 39 per cent flagged the struggle to balance study and work How Australia compares on visa fees for students US (F-1 visa): USD 185 (₹15,780) Canada: CAD 150 (₹9,415) UK: GBP 490 (₹57,133) Australia: AUD 2,000 (₹1.12 lakh) Cost of studying in Australia According to University Living's Australia Report 2025: Visa-related costs including biometrics and health checks: AUD 2,200–2,300 (₹1.23–1.29 lakh) Undergraduate tuition: AUD 20,000–40,000 annually (₹11.2–22.4 lakh) Postgraduate tuition: AUD 22,000–50,000 annually (₹12.3–28 lakh) High-demand programmes (e.g. medicine, MBA): Up to AUD 100,000 (₹56 lakh) Living expenses: AUD 17,000–26,000 annually (₹9.5–14.6 lakh) Additional costs (travel, insurance, books): AUD 3,000–5,000 (₹1.7–2.8 lakh) Several leading Australian universities have raised international tuition fees by 5–7 per cent for 2025. Arora said many still offer merit-based waivers of AUD 2,500 to 10,000 per year, and some provide up to 50 per cent or full tuition coverage. 'Research-focused postgraduate students can also benefit from scholarships that cover full tuition along with a living allowance and academic support,' he said.
Business Standard
03-07-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Australia hikes student visa fee to ₹1 lakh, costliest in English world
From July 1, 2025, international students applying to Australia now pay AUD 2,000 (about ₹1.12 lakh) for a student visa, up from the earlier AUD 1,600. The decision makes Australia the most expensive destination for student visa applications among major English-speaking countries. Australia's Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Finance Minister Katy Gallagher confirmed the increase, who also said that the change is expected to generate AUD 760 million over four years. 'For those applying from July 1, the Visa Application Charge (VAC) for primary student visa applicants has increased from $1,600 to $2,000,' the Australian government portal says. UK student visa: GBP 490 (₹57,133) Australia student visa (from July 2025): AUD 2,000 (₹1.12 lakh) In Indian rupees, Australia now tops the chart, with the new fee translating to approximately ₹1.12 lakh, depending on exchange rates. The visa fee exemption for primary applicants from Pacific Island nations and Timor-Leste will remain unchanged. More restrictions and a cap on student numbers The visa fee hike is one of several steps Australia has taken recently to rein in international student numbers. Other changes include: • A national cap of 2,70,000 international student commencements in 2025 • Stricter English language requirements • Powers to suspend non-compliant education providers The federal opposition has proposed an even tighter cap of 2,40,000. In February 2025 alone, 200,000 international students arrived in the country, up 12.1 per cent from the same month in 2024. Impact on Indian students and ELICOS providers Indian students continue to lead in visa numbers, overtaking China in early 2025. February 2025: 2,734 visas granted Over 5,000 approvals in just two months But higher fees are raising concerns. 'These changes will prompt international students to explore unconventional study destinations beyond the traditional four—US, UK, Canada and Australia,' said Saurabh Arora, founder and CEO of University Living, speaking to Business Standard. English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) have already taken a hit. In 2024, a previous fee hike was followed by a 50 per cent drop in English language course admissions. Several providers, including Perth International College of English, IH Sydney, and The Language Academy, have since shut down. Graduate visa and tuition fees also increase In February 2025, the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) also became costlier: Base fee: from AUD 1,945 to AUD 2,235 Additional applicant over 18: AUD 1,115 Additional applicant under 18: AUD 560 Second Post-Higher Education Work stream: AUD 880 for primary applicant; AUD 440 or AUD 225 for dependants Major universities have raised tuition fees too: University of Melbourne: Engineering: AUD 56,480 per year Clinical medicine: AUD 112,832 per year University of New South Wales: Up to 7 per cent increase What Indian students can expect to spend Saurabh Goel, CEO and Co-Founder of Amber, said: 'Undergraduate degrees cost between AUD 20,000 and AUD 45,000 per year. Postgraduate courses are priced between AUD 22,000 and AUD 50,000 annually. Doctoral programmes range from AUD 20,000 to AUD 42,000.' At the Australian National University (ANU), international undergraduates pay between AUD 42,560 and AUD 47,940 per year depending on the course. Saurabh Arora estimates that annual living costs, including tuition and accommodation, average around ₹11.63 lakh. Additional living expenses, he said, are also considerable: Food: AUD 80 to 150 per week Transport: AUD 30 to 70 per week Books and supplies: AUD 500 to 1,000 per year Personal expenses: AUD 50 to 150 per week Minister for Education Jason Clare said the revenue raised through higher visa fees would support initiatives like lowering graduate debt and boosting apprenticeship programmes. 'International education is an incredibly important national asset and we need to ensure its integrity and quality,' he said.
