Canberra: Australia plans to set a limit on the number of new international students entering the country, aiming to revert to the numbers seen before the pandemic.
Education Minister Jason Clare announced on Tuesday that the number of enrolments for 2025 will be capped at 270,000, signifying a significant change in the country’s stance on international education.
Australia, known for having one of the biggest international student sectors in the world, currently hosts around 717,500 international students, as per the early 2024 government data. The new policy will introduce specific limits for each higher education institution, with vocational education and training providers expected to see the largest cuts.
This decision has caused considerable controversy in the tertiary education sector, with many universities condemning the policy as detrimental to the economy. Opponents of the cap believe it will greatly damage an industry already affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, Clare argues that these changes are essential to improve the quality and long-term viability of the sector.
Amid the pandemic, Australia’s strict border policies led to the repatriation of foreign students, which had a significant impact on higher education. Nevertheless, Clare has pointed out that university enrolments have now increased by 10% compared to pre-pandemic figures, and private vocational institutions have seen an impressive 50% rise.
The government has criticized some education providers for “unethical” practices, such as admitting students with insufficient language skills or those more interested in work than study. In response, the government has tightened English-language requirements and increased oversight for those applying for a second study visa.
