Student Enrolments Drop, but 2025 Goals Still Within Reach
Changes in Australia’s International Student Landscape
Recent reforms by the Australian government are affecting the international education sector. These include increased visa fees and changes to visa processing under Ministerial Direction 111 (MD 111), which presents new challenges for students and educational institutions.
Declining International Student Numbers
Data from the Department of Education shows that international student enrolments have dropped by 16% compared to the previous year, with the English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) experiencing a nearly 40% decline.
Education leaders are concerned about the negative impact of these policy changes. They cite issues such as job losses and closures, along with a decline in interest from prospective students, largely due to the increased student visa application fee, now set at AUD $2,000. This follows a previous 125% hike from AUD $710 to AUD $1,600 just a year ago.
Future Projections for Student Enrolments
Despite current challenges, the federal education department reports that Australia may still reach 102% of its 2025 target for new international student enrolments. This target is part of the National Planning Level process linked to MD 111.
Some stakeholders express concerns about achieving the expected figure of 270,000 new placements for 2025. In 2024/25, there were 257,276 applications, with 234,040 visas issued. However, the Department remains optimistic, as many students are already enrolled or approved.
Public universities are projected to fill about 95% of their spots, while private institutions are expected to significantly exceed their targets, achieving around 172% of their allocations.
Managing Future Enrolments
The Australian government aims to increase the enrolment cap from 270,000 to 295,000 in 2026. Education Minister Jason Clare indicated that future enrolment targets will be controlled more tightly. The new Australian Tertiary Education Committee (ATEC) will collaborate with universities to ensure they meet their allocations effectively.
This strategic approach seeks to balance the requirements of students and education providers while aligning with national targets.
How These Changes Affect Visa and Job Opportunities
For international job seekers, these shifts in the student visa landscape may influence future visa sponsorship options. The 482 visa allows businesses to sponsor skilled workers, while the 189 and 190 visas provide pathways to permanent residency (PR) for skilled migrants. Understanding these changes is crucial for anyone considering working or studying in Australia.
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