Australia’s recent migration strategy shift has led to confusion within the international education sector. Reports have surfaced highlighting increased visa rejections, slow visa processing, and revoked offers from Australian institutions. This has created a tense atmosphere among international students, signalling Australia’s concerted efforts to curtail migration levels.
In the latter half of 2023, a significant rise in visa rejections was noted, with as many as 1 out of 5 students facing rejection. Particularly concerning is the disproportionately high rejection rates for Indian, Pakistani, and Nepalese students, surpassing a third and half for some demographics, respectively. Further, federal authorities have turned away thousands of overseas student applicants, resulting in a 20% decrease in student visa grants.
Under Australia’s new migration strategy, prospective students must demonstrate a higher level of savings. Moreover, they should have enhanced English proficiency, and pass a ‘Genuine Student Test.’ However, complaints have surfaced regarding the lack of transparency in the visa rejection process.
Many educational institutions are alarmed by the increase in rejection rates, as it directly impacts their ability to attract international students. Notably, students applying to Level 1 institutions are experiencing expedited visa processing times. The government showcase the need for thorough checking of both institutions and student applicants as contributing to longer processing times.
Some institutions have disclosed a list of countries from which they will accept offshore applications in a bid to increase approval rates. However, they continue to accept applications from all nationalities for onshore applications. Moreover, several institutions are advising students to withdraw their applications promptly to avoid negative visa outcomes, reflecting the mounting concern within the sector. Nishi Borra, President of the Association of Australian Education Representatives in India, has highlighted the widespread panic among universities in response to these developments.
