The Australian High Commission in New Delhi has strongly denied reports that some Australian educational institutions are restricting or banning student applications from specific Indian states. The denial comes after media reports suggested that certain Australian colleges were barring students from states such as Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Jammu & Kashmir.
In a statement, the Australian High Commission said, “The assertion that Indian university student applications from specific Indian states are being banned or restricted is incorrect.” The commission emphasized that there are over 125,000 Indian students currently studying in Australia, making India the second-largest cohort of students in the country. The Australian Government continues to process Indian student visa applications in line with global standards.
The Australian High Commission emphasized the strong relationship between India and Australia in the field of education, stating that Australia deeply values Indian students and welcomes their contribution to Australian classrooms and society.
Meanwhile, Australian Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has proposed a policy to limit the number of international students in Australia. To achieve this, Dutton suggested temporary modifications to graduate visas, higher application costs, and stricter enrollment limitations.
Let’s set the record straight with verified facts:
- The Australian Government has NOT banned students from any Indian state.
While some media outlets suggested that students from states such as Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Jammu & Kashmir were being restricted, these claims have been categorically denied by the Australian High Commission. The commission emphasized that such reports were inaccurate and that no blanket bans exist for any Indian state. - Temporary, Institution-Specific Decisions in 2023:
In 2023, a few Australian universities had briefly paused applications from certain regions due to integrity concerns. However, these were independent, institution-level decisions—not government mandates—and all such restrictions were lifted within a month. - Visa Approvals on the Rise:
The approval rate for Indian student visa applications is strong, with a notable increase of 19% in the past year, granting 34,986 student visas to Indian applicants. The current visa approval rate for Indian students stands at approximately 85%, underscoring the positive reception of genuine applicants. - Indian Students Remain Welcome in Australia:
No university in Australia currently has any ban on students from Gujarat, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, or any other Indian state. AAERI has been in direct contact with multiple Australian universities, all of which have assured that Indian students are not only welcomed but highly valued contributors to Australia’s educational environment. - A Strong and Growing Education Relationship:
Australia continues to be a safe, multicultural, and globally respected destination for higher education. Indian students benefit from world-class education, extended post-study work rights, and strong bilateral agreements that support their long-term career aspirations. Initiatives like the Festival of Australia have actively promoted education as a key pillar, reflecting the ongoing commitment to international students.
AAERI urges media outlets and concerned individuals to correct or retract misleading statements to avoid creating unnecessary confusion and anxiety among prospective students and their families. The relationship between India and Australia in the field of education remains strong, and Indian students continue to be an integral part of Australia’s vibrant academics.
In conclusion, the Australian High Commission’s denial of reports about banning Indian student visa applications is a welcome development for Indian students. However, the proposed policy to limit international students may still have implications for Indian students seeking to study in Australia. It remains to be seen how the Australian Government will balance its commitment to international education with the need to manage the number of international students in the country.
