In a significant policy shift, Australia has introduced stringent student visa regulations targeting six Indian states — Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Jammu & Kashmir — following a surge in fraudulent applications. The move has stirred concern among prospective students and education consultants, as several Australian universities have raised alarms over the misuse of the student visa system.
Authorities allege that a growing number of applicants from these regions are exploiting the student visa program as a pathway to permanent residency rather than pursuing genuine academic goals. In response, many universities have either suspended accepting applications from these states or implemented enhanced scrutiny and verification protocols.
This crackdown, first reported by the Times of India, is part of a broader effort by the Australian government to uphold the integrity of its international education sector. Universities are now working in close coordination with the Department of Home Affairs to bolster the visa screening process and restore confidence in the system.
Compounding these developments is a recent overhaul of Australia’s student visa fee structure. Although full details are pending, visa fees saw a dramatic increase in July 2024 — doubling from AUD 710 to AUD 1,600 (approximately ₹39,546 to ₹89,118). Additionally, several institutions have increased international tuition fees for 2025, with some programs witnessing hikes exceeding 7%.
At the University of Melbourne, for instance, annual tuition for engineering programs has risen to ₹30.36 lakh, while clinical medicine now commands an annual fee of ₹60.66 lakh.
These cost escalations have drawn criticism from student communities and education consultants alike. Nonetheless, the Australian government has defended the measures, emphasizing their importance in safeguarding the country’s educational standards and long-term credibility.
“International education is an incredibly important national asset, and we need to ensure its integrity and quality,” stated Minister for Education Jason Clare.
As the global education landscape continues to evolve, students and stakeholders are being urged to stay informed and adapt to the changing regulatory environment.
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